Update: This article was last updated on 20th December 2023 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
Movies have always been a source of entertainment, but they can also provide valuable insights into various aspects of life, including entrepreneurship. If you are a budding entrepreneur looking for inspiration and useful lessons, delve into biographical dramas and comedies about successful entrepreneurs and their journeys.
From the story of Mark Zuckerberg, who created Facebook, to Chris Gardner’s unwavering dedication in pursuing his dream, and Joy Mangano’s tenacity in creating a successful business, these movies showcase the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
Recommended Reading: 10 Science Movies for Kids To Watch In 2023
In this article, we will discuss 10 movies that offer valuable insights into what it takes to create a successful business, covering a range of perspectives from the high-stakes world of venture capitalism to the creative advertising process.
10 Must-Watch Movies for Young Entrepreneurs:
1. The Wolf of Wall Street
This biographical black comedy is based on the real-life experiences of stockbroker Jordan Belfort, who amassed wealth and influence in the 1990s through unethical business practices. The movie depicts Belfort’s wild and extravagant lifestyle as he grows his empire, becoming increasingly irresponsible and unethical in his pursuit of success and riches. Belfort faced legal consequences for his actions.
Well said by Jordan Belfort in the movie,
Trailer
Theme: The film explores the darker aspects of Wall Street, revealing its underbelly.
Takeaway: Highlights the dangers of greed and unethical behavior in the world of entrepreneurship.
IMDB Rating: 8.2/10
2. The Pursuit of Happyness
The biographical drama is about Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his son while pursuing his dream of becoming a stockbroker. Despite facing numerous challenges, Gardner perseveres and takes odd jobs to support his family, while also trying to secure an unpaid internship at a brokerage firm.
Christopher Gardner said right in the movie,
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Theme: The major theme of the movie depicts the difficulty of being homeless, fighting for a comfortable, happy life, and how in the end, intelligence combined with perseverance pays off.
Takeaway: Gardner’s unwavering dedication to his son and his goals is an inspiration.
IMDB Rating: 8/10
3. The Social Network
The biographical drama tells the story of Mark Zuckerberg, a Harvard student who created a website for college students to connect online with his friends, leading to the development of Facebook. As the site is popular and attracts investors, Zuckerberg faces legal disputes and interpersonal conflicts that threaten the company’s success.
During the Movie, Sean Parker Quoted,
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Theme: The movie shows how the dynamics of friendship, loyalty, jealousy, class, and power converged to catalyze the development of one of the most influential innovations in our era.
Takeaway: Provides valuable insights into entrepreneurship.
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
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4. Joy
Joy Mangano revolutionized the cleaning industry with her invention, The Miracle Mop, a self-wringing mop. In this biographical comedy-drama film, Joy portrays her personal and professional challenges in creating a successful business, including a dysfunctional family and the male-dominated business world.
During the Movie, Young Joy quoted,
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Theme: The movie’s major theme involves one woman trying to use her God-given talents to fulfill her dreams and meet her family responsibilities.
Takeaway: It shows that problem-solving skills can propel you toward innovation and greater success.
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
5. The Big Short
The Big Short, a biographical comedy-drama, follows a group of investors who made a fortune by correctly predicting the 2008 financial crisis and betting against the housing market. The movie examines the complex financial instruments and risky practices that led to the collapse of the housing market and the ensuing financial disaster.
It highlights the importance of the study, critical thinking, and financial literacy in entrepreneurship. It stresses the moral responsibility of investors to act in the best interests of their clients and society.
A meaningful statement quoted by Mark Twain in the movie,
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Theme: The major theme of the movie includes society and class, manipulation, perseverance, injustice, hypocrisy, greed, foolishness, and folly.
Takeaway: Underlines the risks and potential outcomes of financial decisions.
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
6. The Intern
“The Intern,” a comedy-drama, revolves around 70-year-old retiree Ben Whittaker who takes an internship position at an e-commerce startup founded by successful entrepreneur Jules Ostin. As Jules navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship and work-life balance, Ben becomes her mentor and companion, providing valuable advice and support.
A meaningful statement by Robert De Niro (Ben in movie) when he tells why he left retirement to work again,
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Theme: The major theme of the movie includes generational wisdom, not judging people by their age (or anything superficial), and making the most of people’s talents.
Takeaway: Emphasizes the importance of harnessing the power of mind & having the right leadership mindset
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
7. Boiler Room
“Boiler Room,” directed by Ben Younger, and released in 2000, is a story of a 19-year-old named Seth who makes a nice income running an illegal casino in his apartment. His dad, a judge, finds out about it and raises holy hell. So the kid gets a daytime job as a broker. The movie explores the moral dilemmas and unbridled ambition that characterize the pursuit of wealth in a world where the line between legality and deception becomes increasingly blurred.
A motivational line by Jim Young in the movie states that
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Theme: The major theme of the movie includes the ethical dilemma in financial success, honesty, not greed.
Takeaway: Prompts contemplation on the ethical compromises individuals may make in the relentless pursuit of financial success, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences that may follow.
IMDB Rating: 6.9/10
8. Catch me if you can
“Catch Me If You Can,” directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2002, unfolds the extraordinary life of Frank Abagnale Jr. 21 yet, Frank is a skilled forger who has passed as a doctor, lawyer, and pilot. FBI agent Carl becomes obsessed with tracking down the con man, who only revels in the pursuit.. A master con artist, Frank blurs the boundaries between fraud and innovation in a captivating tale of audacity and deception.
A meaningful statement quoted by Frank Abagnale in the movie,
Trailer
Theme: The film delves into the themes of deception and adaptability, presenting a compelling exploration of the thin line between criminality and unconventional success.
Takeaway: The movie delivers a powerful message about the transformative power of creativity and adaptability, challenging conventional notions of success.
IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
9. The Founder
Directed by John Lee Hancock, “The Founder” (2016) unfolds the gripping narrative of Ray Kroc, played by Michael Keaton, and the evolution of McDonald’s into a global empire. The film probes entrepreneurship, ambition, and the moral complexities embedded in the pursuit of corporate triumph.
A ruthlessly articulated line projecting Kroc’s unapologetically cutthroat approach to business.
Trailer
Theme: The film delves into the themes of the landscape of entrepreneurship, shedding light on the ethical quandaries entwined with corporate expansion.
Takeaway: The movie delivers insights into the challenges of business growth, prompting contemplation on the moral compromises often made in the relentless pursuit of success.
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
10. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Directed by Ben Stiller, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (2013) is a visually stunning adventure drama that invites audiences into the transformative journey of Walter Mitty, portrayed by Ben Stiller himself, from a daydreamer to a real-life adventurer.
The inspirational line spoken by Sean Penn in the movie, sparking Walter’s pursuit of a more meaningful existence.
Trailer
Theme: The film explores self-discovery, adventure, and pursuing a fulfilling life, contrasting the ordinary with the extraordinary in a visually enchanting narrative.
Takeaway: The movie encourages viewers to break free from routine, pursue dreams, and find meaning in life’s extraordinary adventures.
IMDB Rating: 7.3/10
Moonpreneur
Conclusion
Undoubtedly these movies provide a glimpse into the real-life struggles and triumphs of successful entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of tenacity, perseverance, experience, collaboration, and mentoring in entrepreneurship.
They also emphasize the need to act responsibly and ethically in the business world and underscore financial decisions’ risks and potential outcomes. These movies serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams and overcome challenges on their journey toward success.
More like these:
- Startup.com
- The Circle
- The Moneyball
- Pirates Of Silicon Valley
- FYRE: The Greatest Party that Never Happened
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How can educators and parents help young entrepreneurs by using these movies?
They can use the movies as a jumping-off point to get people talking about business. They can also help connect the dots between what’s happening in the movies and what’s actually happening in the real world.
Are these films able to take the place of traditional business education?
While they can’t take the place of formal schooling, they may give you a sense of what it’s like to be an entrepreneur by giving you examples from real-world situations.
Are those interested in traditional business the only ones who should watch these movies, disregarding those in technology or other rising fields?
No, while some movies focus on business settings, the core values of innovation, leadership and risk-taking apply to all industries, including technology and emerging industries.
Instead of watching movies, shouldn’t young entrepreneurs be spending their time interning or working on hands-on projects?
Both are beneficial. While films provide knowledge, practical experiences offer hands-on experience. Combining the two can help to develop an entrepreneurial mindset that is multifaceted.
Aren’t real-life mentors and advice from the real world a more effective kind of mentoring than stories from fiction?
Real life advice is great, but movies provide a different point of view and can be a great way to get ideas flowing, broaden ideas, and reinforce certain beliefs.
Is this true, by watching movies, individuals can gain valuable insights into the essential elements required to build a successful business?
Watching movies, people can acquire valuable insights into the fundamental components necessary for establishing a prosperous business. These insights encompass a broad spectrum of perspectives, covering the high-stakes domain of venture capitalism to the creative intricacies of the advertising process.
Steve Jobs and Office Space are the two best entrepreneurs movies you must add to your list.
What type of movies do young people prefer to watch?
Genres that often resonate with young people include action-packed films, fantasy and sci-fi adventures, coming-of-age dramas, romantic comedies, and animated features. Additionally, superhero movies, teen comedies, and movies with relatable social themes tend to be popular choices among this demographic.