10 Shows & Movies Like Legit (2013)

Description: This iconic film examines the moral compromises made in pursuit of financial success, with a focus on insider trading and corporate greed. Its sharp critique of 1980s excess and the allure of power remains relevant today.

Fact: The character Gordon Gekko's famous 'Greed is good' speech was partly inspired by a real speech by financier Ivan Boesky. The film won Michael Douglas an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Description: A gripping portrayal of ambition and corruption in the world of stockbrokers, this film explores the ethical dilemmas faced by young professionals lured by quick riches. Its intense dialogue and high-energy scenes mirror the cutthroat nature of financial markets.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life boiler room operations, and many of the sales tactics depicted were based on actual events. It features a cameo by the real-life Jordan Belfort, whose story inspired 'The Wolf of Wall Street'.

Description: This film follows the thrilling escapades of a young con artist who successfully impersonates various professionals, including a pilot and a doctor. Its lighthearted tone and cat-and-mouse dynamic highlight the charm and audacity of its protagonist.

Fact: The real Frank Abagnale, on whom the film is based, served as a consultant during production. He later became a security consultant for the FBI.

Description: This film delves into the high-stakes world of finance and excess, showcasing the rise and fall of a charismatic yet morally ambiguous protagonist. Its fast-paced narrative and dark humor highlight the seductive allure of wealth and power.

Fact: The film holds the record for the most uses of the word 'fuck' in a non-documentary film, with 569 instances. It was also based on the real-life memoir of Jordan Belfort.

Description: A sharp and fast-paced drama about the creation of Facebook, this film explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of success. Its witty dialogue and layered characters provide a compelling look at modern entrepreneurship.

Fact: The film's screenplay was written by Aaron Sorkin, who completed the first draft in just two weeks. Mark Zuckerberg has denied the accuracy of many events depicted in the film.

Description: A darkly comedic take on the 2008 financial crisis, this film breaks down complex financial concepts while exposing the systemic corruption and short-sightedness that led to the collapse. Its unconventional storytelling and fourth-wall breaks make it both educational and entertaining.

Fact: The film uses celebrity cameos like Margot Robbie in a bubble bath to explain financial terms, making complex ideas accessible. It was based on Michael Lewis's bestselling book of the same name.

Description: Set over a 24-hour period during the early stages of the financial crisis, this film offers a tense, behind-the-scenes look at the decisions made by investment bankers facing impending disaster. Its realistic dialogue and moral ambiguity provide a sobering view of the industry.

Fact: The film was shot in just 17 days on a modest budget. Many of the actors took pay cuts to be part of the project due to the strength of the script.

Description: A stylish and chaotic exploration of con artists and FBI stings, this film blends humor and drama to depict the blurred lines between right and wrong. Its vibrant characters and period setting add to the sense of excess and deception.

Fact: The film was loosely based on the ABSCAM scandal of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Christian Bale gained 43 pounds and wore a comb-over for his role.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows two young men who exploit the U.S. government's arms deals for personal gain. Its mix of humor and tension underscores the absurdity and danger of their exploits.

Fact: The real-life David Packouz, one of the arms dealers portrayed in the film, has a cameo as a musician in the movie. The story was originally reported in a Rolling Stone article.

Description: This biographical drama chronicles the rise of McDonald's and the ruthless business tactics employed by Ray Kroc to build an empire. Its exploration of ambition and moral compromise offers a sobering look at the American Dream.

Fact: The film's script was featured on the 2014 Black List, an annual survey of the most-liked unproduced screenplays in Hollywood. The real McDonald's brothers received a handshake deal for 1% of future profits, which Kroc later reneged on.