The world of banking is often shrouded in mystery, filled with tales of ambition, greed, and sometimes, redemption. This curated list of biopic films delves into the lives of bankers, financiers, and the institutions they built or brought down. These movies not only entertain but also offer a glimpse into the complex dynamics of the financial sector, making them a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the interplay of money, power, and human nature.

Wall Street (1987)
Description: This classic film delves into the world of corporate raiders and insider trading, with Michael Douglas delivering an iconic performance as Gordon Gekko.
Fact: The phrase "Greed is good" from this movie became a cultural phenomenon, reflecting the ethos of the 1980s.


Rogue Trader (1999)
Description: Based on the true story of Nick Leeson, whose unauthorized speculative trading caused the collapse of Barings Bank.
Fact: Ewan McGregor, who plays Leeson, actually met him to prepare for the role, and the film was shot in Malaysia where the real events took place.


Boiler Room (2000)
Description: A young college dropout gets involved in a shady brokerage firm, offering a gritty look at the world of pump-and-dump stock schemes.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life experiences of its writer, Ben Younger, who worked at a brokerage firm.


The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: This film captures the wild, excessive life of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who became infamous for his fraudulent practices. It's a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of Wall Street's excesses.
Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio improvised many of his lines, and the film's budget was significantly increased due to the extensive use of drugs and nudity.


The Company Men (2010)
Description: This drama focuses on the personal and professional lives of three men who are laid off during the economic downturn, highlighting the human cost of corporate downsizing.
Fact: The film was shot in Massachusetts, where the director, John Wells, grew up, giving it a very authentic feel.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: This film explains the complex financial instruments behind the 2008 housing market crash through the eyes of those who saw it coming and bet against the market.
Fact: Celebrities like Selena Gomez and Anthony Bourdain appear to explain financial concepts, making the movie both educational and entertaining.


Margin Call (2011)
Description: Set during the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis, this film follows a 24-hour period at a fictional investment bank as it teeters on the brink of collapse.
Fact: The film was shot in just 17 days, and the script was written in a mere 10 days by J.C. Chandor.


Inside Job (2010)
Description: Although a documentary, this film provides an in-depth look at the systemic corruption of the financial industry that led to the 2008 economic meltdown.
Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and its director, Charles Ferguson, turned down a $50,000 offer from a Wall Street firm to screen the film.


Too Big to Fail (2011)
Description: Based on the 2008 financial crisis, this film provides an insider's look at the decisions made by key figures in the banking industry during one of the most tumultuous times in recent history.
Fact: The film was shot in just 35 days, and many of the actors played real-life bankers and politicians involved in the crisis.


The Bank (2001)
Description: This Australian film explores the moral dilemmas faced by a bank executive when a mathematician discovers a formula that could predict the stock market.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events involving the manipulation of interest rates by banks.
