Wealth has always fascinated and intrigued us, whether it's the allure of opulence, the pursuit of power, or the stark contrast between the haves and have-nots. This curated list of documentaries delves into the lives of the rich, the mechanisms of wealth accumulation, and the societal impacts of economic disparity. From the glitzy world of high finance to the gritty realities of economic inequality, these films offer a panoramic view of wealth in its many forms, providing both entertainment and food for thought.

Born Rich (2003)
Description: This film provides an insider's look at the lives of young heirs to some of America's wealthiest families, revealing their struggles with identity and expectations.
Fact: The director, Jamie Johnson, is himself an heir to the Johnson & Johnson fortune, giving him unique access to this exclusive world.


The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Description: While not a documentary, this film, based on real events, provides a vivid portrayal of the excesses and ethical lapses in the world of high finance.
Fact: The film was directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Leonardo DiCaprio, who both received critical acclaim for their work.


Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)
Description: Michael Moore's critique of capitalism in America, focusing on the financial crisis, corporate greed, and the widening gap between the rich and the poor.
Fact: Moore uses humor and satire to make his points, making this documentary both informative and entertaining.


Inside Job (2010)
Description: This documentary investigates the global financial crisis of 2008, exploring the systemic corruption of the financial industry and the consequences for the world economy.
Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


The Queen of Versailles (2012)
Description: Follow the rise and fall of David and Jackie Siegel as they attempt to build the largest private home in America, showcasing the excesses and vulnerabilities of the ultra-rich.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a light-hearted look at wealth but evolved into a poignant study of the 2008 financial crisis.


Inequality for All (2013)
Description: Former U.S. Labor Secretary Robert Reich explains the widening income gap and its impact on the American Dream, using personal stories and economic data.
Fact: The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival.


Park Avenue: Money, Power and the American Dream (2012)
Description: This film contrasts the lives of the ultra-rich living on Park Avenue in Manhattan with those in the South Bronx, highlighting economic inequality.
Fact: It was produced by Alex Gibney, known for his investigative documentaries.


The Men Who Made Us Spend (2014)
Description: A three-part series exploring how consumer culture was created, focusing on the strategies used by corporations to encourage spending.
Fact: The series was produced by BBC, known for its in-depth documentaries.


The One Percent (2006)
Description: A look at the top 1% of America's wealthiest, examining their influence on politics, society, and the economy, and questioning the fairness of such wealth concentration.
Fact: The film features interviews with both the wealthy and those affected by their policies.


The Billion Dollar Bubble (2019)
Description: This documentary explores the rise and fall of the dot-com bubble, focusing on the entrepreneurs and investors who made and lost fortunes.
Fact: It features interviews with key figures from the era, providing firsthand accounts of the tech boom and bust.
