Greed is a timeless theme that has captivated audiences for generations. These biographical films not only entertain but also offer a deep dive into the psyche of individuals driven by insatiable desire for wealth and power. From Wall Street tycoons to notorious criminals, these stories provide a fascinating look at the consequences of unchecked greed. Here are 10 must-watch films that explore this theme in various contexts, offering both cautionary tales and insights into human nature.
Wall Street (1987)
Description: Gordon Gekko's infamous "Greed is good" speech encapsulates the film's exploration of financial greed and its impact on society.
Fact: Michael Douglas won an Oscar for his portrayal of Gordon Gekko. The character was loosely based on several real-life Wall Street figures.
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The Insider (1999)
Description: Jeffrey Wigand's whistleblowing on the tobacco industry reveals the greed and unethical practices within big corporations.
Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Russell Crowe's performance was critically acclaimed.
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There Will Be Blood (2007)
Description: Daniel Plainview's ruthless pursuit of oil wealth in the early 20th century is a stark portrayal of greed's destructive power.
Fact: Daniel Day-Lewis won his second Best Actor Oscar for this role. The film was inspired by the novel "Oil!" by Upton Sinclair.
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The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who indulges in a lifestyle of excess and corruption. It's a perfect fit for our theme, showcasing greed in its most extravagant form.
Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Leonardo DiCaprio gained 35 pounds for his role.
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Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
Description: This documentary delves into the Enron scandal, where corporate greed led to one of the largest bankruptcies in American history.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It includes interviews with former Enron executives.
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The Informant! (2009)
Description: Mark Whitacre's involvement in a price-fixing conspiracy at Archer Daniels Midland showcases corporate greed and the lengths one might go to cover it up.
Fact: Matt Damon gained 30 pounds for the role. The film was based on the book by Kurt Eichenwald.
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The Social Network (2010)
Description: Mark Zuckerberg's journey to create Facebook is fraught with legal battles and personal betrayals, highlighting the greed for recognition and wealth.
Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. Aaron Sorkin wrote the screenplay in just six months.
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The Big Short (2015)
Description: This movie explains the 2008 financial crisis through the eyes of several characters who saw the greed and corruption in the housing market and bet against it.
Fact: The film uses celebrity cameos to explain complex financial terms. It won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
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American Hustle (2013)
Description: Based on the FBI Abscam operation, this film dives into the world of con artists and political corruption, where greed drives the characters to make risky and morally dubious decisions.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life events of the 1970s FBI sting operation. It received 10 Academy Award nominations.
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The Founder (2016)
Description: Ray Kroc's story of turning McDonald's into a global empire is a tale of ambition and greed, where he takes credit for others' ideas.
Fact: Michael Keaton was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role as Ray Kroc. The film was shot in various locations to replicate the 1950s and 60s.
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