Moonpreneur
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.
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In this article, we will discuss 6 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.
6 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.
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.
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 creates 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.
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.
Takeaway: Helpful tips on tenacity and the importance of taking risks in entrepreneurship.
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.
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.
Takeaway: Emphasizes the importance of experience, collaboration, and mentoring in entrepreneurship and explores the changing nature of work and the need to adapt to new technologies and business models.
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
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.
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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.