If you're fascinated by the financial world, these documentaries offer a deep dive into the complex, often secretive, and sometimes scandalous world of banking. From the global financial crisis to individual bank failures, these films provide insights into how banks operate, the power they wield, and the consequences of their actions. Whether you're a finance enthusiast or just curious about the economic forces shaping our world, this collection will enlighten and entertain.
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
Description: While not exclusively about banks, this documentary examines the Enron scandal, which had significant implications for the banking sector due to its fraudulent practices and the subsequent impact on financial markets.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
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Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)
Description: Michael Moore's documentary critiques the capitalist system, focusing on the banking industry's role in the economic disparity and the 2008 crisis.
Fact: The film was released during the height of the financial crisis, providing a timely critique of the system.
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The Big Short (2015)
Description: Although not a traditional documentary, this film uses a documentary-style approach to explain the housing bubble and the subsequent financial crisis. It's included for its educational value and unique storytelling method.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Michael Lewis and features actors like Christian Bale and Steve Carell playing real-life characters involved in the crisis.
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Inside Job (2010)
Description: This Oscar-winning documentary explores the causes of the 2008 global financial crisis, focusing on the role of banks, financial institutions, and government policies. It's a must-watch for understanding the systemic failures that led to economic turmoil.
Fact: The film was directed by Charles Ferguson, who also directed the documentary "No End in Sight" about the Iraq War. It features interviews with key figures like former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan.
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Too Big to Fail (2011)
Description: This HBO film dramatizes the events of the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on the decisions made by the U.S. government and major banks to prevent a total economic collapse. It provides a narrative insight into the crisis management.
Fact: The film was directed by Curtis Hanson and features a star-studded cast including William Hurt, Paul Giamatti, and Billy Crudup.
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Money for Nothing: Inside the Federal Reserve (2013)
Description: This documentary delves into the history and operations of the Federal Reserve, exploring its role in the financial system and how its policies have shaped the economy.
Fact: The film was directed by Jim Bruce and features interviews with former Fed officials and economists.
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Banking on Bitcoin (2016)
Description: This documentary explores the rise of Bitcoin and its potential to disrupt traditional banking systems, offering a look at the future of finance.
Fact: The film features interviews with key figures in the cryptocurrency world, including the Winklevoss twins.
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The Ascent of Money (2008)
Description: This documentary series by Niall Ferguson traces the history of money, banking, and financial systems, providing context for understanding modern banking practices.
Fact: The series was adapted from Ferguson's book of the same name and aired on PBS.
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The Flaw (2011)
Description: "The Flaw" investigates the reasons behind the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on income inequality and the flaws in the economic system that led to the collapse.
Fact: The film was directed by David Sington, who also directed the documentary "In the Shadow of the Moon."
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The Banker (2020)
Description: Although a narrative film, it's based on the true story of two African American entrepreneurs who hired a white man to pose as the head of their real estate and banking business in the 1960s, highlighting racial barriers in banking.
Fact: The film stars Samuel L. Jackson and Anthony Mackie and was directed by George Nolfi.
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