Introduction

Sometimes, all you require is a fresh burst of inspiration when facing difficulties in your entrepreneurial journey. How about resetting with a gripping film? Movies have a strong ability to rekindle one's internal motivation, whether by showcasing determination, creativity, or overcoming incredible challenges. Entrepreneurs, such as yourself, are always looking for inspiration to overcome obstacles, and a carefully made movie can provide just that—mixed in with entertainment, teachings, and occasional moments of insight. If you want to stay mentally agile, driven, and eager to face challenges, these essential movies for entrepreneurs will definitely ignite your innovative and strategic thinking!

The Pursuit of Happyness

IMDb - 8/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 67%

Release date: 15 December 2006 (USA)

Director: Gabriele Muccino

Distributed by: Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing

Overview

The movie "The Pursuit of Happyness," which is inspired by the real-life story of Chris Gardner, is highly recommended by successful companies as a must-watch for their employees. The film features Will Smith as Gardner and his actual son Jaden Smith as Christopher, depicting a father's determined efforts to overcome poverty and provide for his family. It's in my top ten list of movies that inspire, conveying a strong message about the importance of diligence and commitment in challenging situations. Gardner's experience of being homeless while finishing a demanding six-month non-paying internship as a stockbroker showcases the resilience needed in entrepreneurial endeavors. His consistent battle against challenges is a lesson to embrace failure, stay passionate, and persist, motivating others to conquer obstacles on their journey towards happiness. I strongly suggest watching this movie to revitalize your determination and inspiration.

Trivia

The homeless individuals, who were hired as background actors, were given a day's worth of wages at the minimum rate of $8.62 per hour as well as complimentary catered meals. Some people had not made money in quite some time, so it was a significant event for them.
The movie's title "The Pursuit of Happyness" is purposely misspelled to match the daycare center's outer wall.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2006’s movie The Pursuit of Happyness from its director, Gabriele Muccino

The title of the film is inspired by a phrase in the U.S. Declaration of Independence referencing "the pursuit of happiness".
Will Smith’s portrayal of Chris Gardner had a transformative effect on his acting career. He added that their bond was strengthened by the amount of time they spent together while working on the movie.

Joy

IMDb - 6.6/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 60%

Metacritic - 56%

Release date: 13 December 2015 (USA)

Director: David O. Russell

Distributed by: 20th Century Studios

Entrepreneur: Joy Mangano

Overview

The movie "Joy," with Jennifer Lawrence in the lead role, depicts the real life story of Joy Mangano, a successful entrepreneur famous for creating innovative products like the Miracle Mop and Huggable Hangers, as well as many other household items with patents. The movie shows how having a family's support is crucial and reveals the obstacles women encounter in the corporate realm, demonstrating that determination and effort can result in achievement. While watching Lawrence's character grow her empire, viewers learn an important lesson: if you believe in your vision, you should persistently pursue it until you reach your goals. This is widely regarded as one of the top business films ever made, demonstrating how successful marketing strategies can greatly increase sales and brand recognition. A quote from the movie that captures it perfectly: "Our success is a result of dedication, perseverance, and modesty. Don't expect the world to give you things because the world doesn't owe you anything. In the end, "Joy" doesn't just highlight entrepreneurial success, but also emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming challenges.

Trivia

In fond remembrance of four individuals who all passed away when the movie "Joy" was released: Burton Brand, Bertil Sandgren, Sharon Baumgarten Maifeld, and Lt. Calvin C. Madsen.
The movie's initial title was "Kay's Baptism".
Contrary to previous claims, this film does not depict the life story of Joy Mangano. Annie Mumolo's initial screenplay was inspired by Mangano, an Italian-American innovator and businesswoman famous for creating products like the self-wringing Miracle Mop and Huggable Hangers. She holds the position of President at Ingenious Designs, makes frequent appearances on the U.S. television shopping channel HSN, and has obtained over 100 patents. When David O. Russell joined the team, he included numerous additional supporting characters and blended Mangano's original life story with tales of other women transforming their own lives.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2015’s movie Joy from its director,David O. Russell

Russell dedicated around 100 hours talking on the phone with Mangano while writing the story, but they didn't meet face-to-face until later in the project.

The Big Short

IMDb - 7.8/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 89%

Metacritic - 81%

Release date: 22 January 2016 (India)

Director: Adam McKay

Distributed by: Paramount Pictures, United International Pictures

Entrepreneur: Michael Burry

Overview

According to Michael Lewis' book, “The Big Short” details the experiences of three people who foresaw and made money from the worldwide financial crisis of 2007-08, acting as a warning for business owners and a tribute to the significance of belief and willingness to take risks. During a period when it was unimaginable to bet against the housing market, these people were mocked by the financial industry but stayed firm in their convictions. The movie tells a story focused on characters, delving into the mixed feelings of various men, whether they were real or made-up, who predicted the upcoming crisis. Christian Bale portrays Michael Burry, a hedge fund manager who creates credit default swaps to bet against the housing market, as Ryan Gosling's character Jared Vennett learns about and markets these swaps. Mark Baum, portrayed by Steve Carell, identifies the risky misrating of high-risk loan securities, prompting him to bet against the financial industry. Charlie Geller and Jamie Shipley, aided by retired banker Ben Rickert, profit from bets against mortgage-backed securities, but confront ethical dilemmas in profiting from economic hardship. In the end, Burry's tactics resulted in almost 500% profits for those who remained loyal to him during the housing market crash, showcasing the intricate relationship between anticipation, risk-taking, and the aftermath of the economic downturn.

Trivia

In the movie, the actual Michael Burry appeared briefly as a Scion staff member. In the opening of the scene where Burry's fictional investors approach him at his office, he is briefly depicted standing by the front door, engaged in a phone conversation.
Michael Burry chose the name Scion Capital for his hedge fund company based on his beloved childhood book, "The Scions of Shannara." Christian Bale is spotted reading the book during one of his initial scenes in the film.
This marked the initial Adam McKay movie that did not include his usual partner Will Ferrell.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2016’s movie The Big Short from its director, Adam McKay

McKay aimed to incorporate static images of furniture on the street, individuals being evicted from their residences, and makeshift tent communities.
McKay aimed to demonstrate that the economic downturn was primarily caused by a flawed system rather than individual actions.

Wall Street

IMDb - 7.3/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 79%

Release date: 11 December 1987 (USA)

Director: William Oliver Stone

Distributed by: 20th Century Studios, Warner Bros., Universal Pictures

Entrepreneur:

Overview

The film featuring Michael Douglas' Gordon Gekko and the famous line "Greed is good" serves as a warning for those entering the finance industry. Bud Fox, who is inexperienced, admires Gekko and his lavish way of living, but ends up caught in a scheme of illegal trading. Youthful business owners may be tempted by the desire for wealth, causing them to make unethical choices. The movie "Wall Street" serves as a warning of the potential outcomes of following a dishonest path. Gordon Gekko is portrayed by Michael Douglas as a Wall Street shark who is always looking for more, while young broker Bud Fox, played by Charlie Sheen, becomes jealous and will do anything to be close to him. This movie is regarded as one of the best business films ever made, particularly for hopeful brokers and business owners, showcasing the emotional peaks and valleys of the business realm. In business, it is crucial to have a firm ethical foundation and be willing to make tough decisions when necessary.

Trivia

The first movie to depict a character using a mobile cellular device.
This movie stands out as the only one to receive both an Oscar and a Razzie, not limited to acting but across all categories.
Gordon Gekko's cold-hearted pursuit of wealth reminds one of the Golden Gecko, a bright yellow reptile from Vietnam.

Interesting anecdotes about the 1987’s movie Wall Street from its director, William Oliver Stone

Stone's fast-paced telephone conversations influenced Gordon Gekko's manner of speaking.
Stone commented that the film led to a society where rich individuals are honored on popular magazines and CNBC is part of the continuous news coverage.

The Aviator

IMDb - 7.5/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 87%

Metacritic - 77%

Release date: 18 February 2005 (India)

Director: Martin Scorsese

Distributed by: Warner Bros., Miramax, 20th Century Studios, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Entrepreneur: Howard Hughes

Overview

Throughout the years, Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio have worked together on many outstanding movies, and “The Aviator” is no different. This biographical film tells the story of Howard Hughes, a wealthy man who faced many obstacles but still managed to achieve success as a businessman and filmmaker, all while dealing with worsening OCD. Hughes is a prime model for hopeful entrepreneurs, showing that conquering challenges is crucial to attaining what seems unachievable. He didn't just compete with big companies and industry leaders, he also struggled with severe mental illness internally. In the 1930s, Hughes was a revolutionary filmmaker who made the most costly and ambitious film of the time, as well as gaining fame for his romantic affairs with actresses in Hollywood. An aviator, he set flying records like a historic global flight in less than four days and making TWA the first global airline. Despite his significant accomplishments, Hughes experienced severe lows because of his obsessive-compulsive disorder and numerous phobias. His private battles were evident in his intense solitude and strange actions, which were very different from his image as a charismatic bachelor. The movie depicts Hughes as a strong individual whose determination to innovate could potentially push him into bankruptcy. In the end, a Congressional hearing exposes his personal and professional struggles, resulting in a critical situation involving the creation of the "Spruce Goose," a significant aircraft that would decide his future—either reviving his reputation or causing his downfall.

Trivia

Martin Scorsese deliberately made each year in the film resemble the visual style of a color movie from that specific time period. By utilizing digital post-production techniques, Scorsese successfully replicated the appearance of Cinecolor and two-strip Technicolor.
Leonardo DiCaprio spent a day with Jane Russell listening to her recollections and insights about Howard Hughes.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2005’s movie The Aviator from its director, Martin Scorsese

In post-production, Scorsese utilized digital enhancement to replicate the appearance of Cinecolor and two-strip Technicolor for each era depicted in the film. In one instance, peas on a plate are seen as blue or turquoise, mimicking the colors used in the two-strip Technicolor process.
Scorsese came close to giving up on making films after The Aviator because of the intense pressure during the final two weeks of editing and mixing. He declared, "If this is the method required for making movies, then I will no longer participate."

Glengarry Glen Ross

IMDb - 7.7/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 95%

Release date: 2 October 1992 (USA)

Director: James Foley

Distributed by: New Line Cinema

Entrepreneur: David Mamet

Overview

Entrepreneurs and those in leadership roles should definitely watch “Glengarry Glen Ross” as it explores important concepts like AIDA (Attention, Interest, Decision, Action), a popular marketing strategy. The movie highlights the significant influence a boss's choices can have on all employees. A famous phrase, ‘Always be Closing’, continues to have an impact on modern businesses and sales teams. Adapted from an acclaimed stage production, the film showcases the experiences of four property salesmen facing a tough sales period where their positions are at risk due to a company directive stating that only the top two performers will keep their job. “Glengarry Glen Ross” demonstrates effective strategies for thriving in intense sales settings through clever tactics. It delves into the interactions, disagreements, and emotional distress in the background of a real estate office in New York City, revealing the risks of relying solely on poor sales opportunities and feeling overwhelmed by the need to make a living. This film about sales is definitely worth watching, if any does.

Trivia

Throughout the making of the movie, the actors commonly called it "Death of a Fuckin' Salesman".
David Mamet created his original play from his personal work experience at a real estate office in the 1970s, during his time as an aspiring playwright. He was the employee in charge of distributing sales leads and managing paperwork in the office.

Interesting anecdotes about the 1992’s movie Glengarry Glen Ross from its director, James Foley

The name of the film is based on two housing projects referenced in the play: Glengarry Highlands and Glen Ross Farms.
Some argue that the film relies heavily on dialogue, despite the characters not conveying any meaningful information.

Jerry Maguire

IMDb - 7.3/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 84%

Release date: 13 December 1996 (USA)

Director: Cameron Crowe

Distributed by: TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing

Entrepreneur:Jerry Maguire and Tim McDonald

Overview

“Jerry Maguire” highlights the importance of empathy and stresses that, in business, one's character is usually more highly regarded than the amount of money they generate. The movie explores the difference between how success is seen and what it truly is, as sports agent Jerry Maguire goes on a voyage of personal growth. Jerry recognizes the importance of money in business but believes that relationships hold greater value. Confronted with a moral dilemma in a skeptical field, he composes a Mission Statement promoting a kinder method in sports representation, resulting in his termination from the company. The Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Rod Tidwell, who is not very outstanding, is the only client who decides to stay loyal, along with Dorothy Boyd, a single mother who is motivated by Jerry's vision. Supported by Rod and Dorothy, Jerry's unyielding spirit enables him to confront the obstacles in the changing business environment. Cameron Crowe's film intertwines redemption, love, and humor to develop complex characters and an engaging storyline. Tom Cruise's portrayal of Jerry is what keeps the production intact, with impressive supporting performances by Cuba Gooding Jr. as Rod and Renee Zellweger as Dorothy. The blossoming love between them brings a magical quality to the narrative, and the movie's meticulous details and timeless messages make it one of Crowe's top achievements.

Trivia

Two quotes from this film, "Show me the money" and "You had me at hello", are included in the AFI's list of Top 100 movie quotes.
The game between the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys featured in this film was an actual ABC Monday Night Football game held on Monday, December 25, 1995. In this film, the Cardinals were victorious; however, in reality, the Cowboys emerged as the winners with a score of 37-13.

Interesting anecdotes about the 1996’s movie Jerry Maguire from its director, Cameron Crowe

Nancy Wilson, who was married to Crowe at the time, composed the film's score.
Crowe made a recording of Aimee Mann's track "Wise Up" for the film, but thought it was too overpowering for that particular scene. The song was subsequently featured in the movie Magnolia in 1999.
Crowe shadowed Steinberg to understand the role of a sports agent, and Steinberg provided advice for the film.

Moneyball

IMDb - 7.6/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 94%

Metacritic - 87%

Release date: 24 February 2012 (India)

Director: Bennett Miller

Distributed by: Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures Releasing

Entrepreneur: Billy Beane

Overview

“Moneyball” shows that through dedication and informed choices, entrepreneurs can achieve impressive success without needing substantial financial support. This movie is one of the top examples of how strengths can empower entrepreneurs. It shows key qualities required for creating a thriving company, emphasizing how thorough planning and research can turn seen weaknesses into major strengths. The narrative centers around Billy Beane, the Oakland Athletics' general manager, who must build a winning team for the 2002 season with only $41 million, despite losing crucial players to free agency. While on a scouting trip, Beane encounters Peter Brand, a Yale economics alum with unique concepts for assessing athletes. Beane is impressed by Brand's approach, so he hires him and starts to sign undervalued players using sabermetrics, even though the team's scouts and manager are resistant. Throughout the season, the Athletics face challenges at first, but Beane's perseverance results in an impressive comeback, resulting in a historic winning streak. Even though the team doesn't win in the playoffs, the Boston Red Sox are impressed by the strategy and offer Beane a high-paying contract. At the end, Beane turns down the offer but still plays a crucial role in altering the course of baseball history, with the Red Sox eventually winning the World Series by implementing his strategies.

Trivia

Due to budget constraints, the Oakland Athletics visited Dodger Stadium instead of multiple stadiums, which was transformed to replicate eight different ballparks.
Billy Beane is depicted as a solitary man who has gone through a divorce. He had married again in real life.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2012’s movie Boiler Room from its director, Bennett Miller

Boiler Room

IMDb - 7/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 66%

Metacritic - 63%

Release date: 18 February 2000 (USA)

Director: Ben Younger

Distributed by: New Line Cinema

Entrepreneur: Jordan Belfort

Overview

“Boiler Room” stands out as a highly motivating film for traders and young entrepreneurs, showcasing an impactful speech from Ben Affleck's character that provides insight into the realm of business and finance. The movie shows how a high level of commitment and enthusiasm leads to success, a success that can be almost infectious. It reminds us that success comes from both self-belief in our skills and drive, not just intelligence alone. The narrative focuses on Seth, a 19-year-old who manages an unlawful gambling establishment and then transitions to working as a broker at a Long Island bucket shop using aggressive methods to sell questionable stock. The film effectively portrays the cult-like environment of a company that guarantees to transform trainees into millionaires by teaching them to be successful phone salespeople, showcasing its true authenticity. Seth gains the skill of taking money from naive people in a fast-paced setting with both close friendships and conflicts, especially with his father, who is a judge. The dynamic between Seth and his co-workers, particularly the obstacles Abby, the receptionist, encounters, enrich the story by addressing themes of race and individual drive authentically, avoiding common stereotypes. Although it is not perfect, *Boiler Room* captivates its audience with its intricate characters and ethical dilemmas, showcasing the challenging path of aspiring entrepreneurs seeking success.

Trivia

Although there are numerous hip hop songs featured in the film, there is not an official soundtrack that includes any of the songs.
Greg (played by Nicky Katt) warns Chris (portrayed by Vin Diesel) to stop touching his money associated with "One Race." One Race Productions is the name of Vin Diesel's film production company.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2000’s movie Boiler Room from its director, Ben Younger

Younger interviewed stockbrokers at boiler rooms for a duration of two years.
Younger decided to write the screenplay after attending a job interview at a brokerage firm that turned out to be a pyramid scheme.

Wolf of Wall Street

IMDb - 8.2/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 80%

Metacritic - 75%

Release date: 3 January 2014 (India)

Director: Martin Scorsese

Distributed by: Paramount Pictures

Overview

“The Wolf of Wall Street” narrates Jordan Belfort's (Leonardo DiCaprio) journey as he lands a job at a top NYC trading company as a "connector," becoming easily influenced by unethical senior broker Mark Hanna (Matthew McConaughey). Introduced to a world of indulgence during a crazy lunch filled with martinis and cocaine, Belfort discovers the cutthroat ways of Wall Street, where the rich succeed while regular people face difficulties. After the market crash in October 1987, he discovers a fresh chance at a small brokerage specializing in penny stocks, wowing his coworkers with convincing phone calls and gaining a devoted group of clients. Belfort's wealth and lavish lifestyle expand alongside the growth of his company, Stratton Oakmont, driven by a culture of greed that takes advantage of vulnerable clients. Getting married to Nadine Naomi (played by Margot Robbie) leads to chaos in his personal life, as he plunges into a world of drugs and wild parties where extreme behavior is the new normal. Martin Scorsese is the director of the film, which is based on Belfort's memoir and exposes the negative aspects of the American financial sector, portraying widespread cynicism, misogyny, and a lack of responsibility. Although the story does not pass moral judgments on Belfort's behavior, it does emphasize the outcomes of unrestricted ambition and privilege. In the end, the movie's ending, in which Belfort transforms into a motivational speaker, highlights a deep sense of skepticism towards achievement and ethics, causing viewers to reevaluate the ideals upheld in today's society. Even though the film was overly done, it received positive reviews and awards attention, sparking debates about the morality of glamorizing a contentious figure.

Trivia

The actors inhaled crushed B vitamins instead of cocaine during certain scenes. Jonah Hill stated that he developed bronchitis from excessive inhalation and had to be admitted to the hospital.
Most of the movie's lines were made up on the spot, which Martin Scorsese commonly promotes.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2014 movie Wolf of Wall Street from its director, Martin Scorsese

Scorsese had no recollection that the Lamborghini had a door that opens upward, making it difficult for DiCaprio to reach with his hands. Scorsese recommended that DiCaprio experiment with his foot, and DiCaprio's gestures were flawless.
Jonah Hill and Leonardo DiCaprio collaborated on choreographing the quaalude scene.
Scorsese's film strategy coincides with the contemporary trend in cinema that promotes critical thinking and independent judgment among viewers.

Margin Call

IMDb - 7.1/10

Rotten Tomatoes - 87%

Metacritic - 76%

Release date: 21 October 2011 (USA)

Director: J. C. Chandor

Distributed by: Lionsgate, Myriad Pictures, Roadside Attractions

Overview

The American drama “Margin Call” (2011) delves into the workings of an investment bank during the 2008 financial crisis in an intriguing manner. The movie demonstrates the effects of extensive exposure to Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) and the almost failure of an unspecified investment bank in New York City, providing a detailed examination of the current financial system and the activities of major financial organizations. The story starts with the upcoming termination of 80% of the employees because of decreasing profits. Eric Dale, who is the risk management director, is one of the individuals who was let go and he gives a USB with important analysis to his junior, Peter Sullivan, asking him to finish the model. That evening, Peter uncovers troubling data revealing that the company is highly leveraged, and if the market value of its risky assets drops by 25%, losses would exceed the firm's total market capitalization. Worried, Peter contacts his manager, Will Emerson, prompting an urgent gathering with the top executive team, which comprises CEO John Tuld. Tuld chooses to promptly sell off all risky financial assets, even though executives are worried about harming client connections and the overall financial system. At first unsure, Sam ultimately agrees to the sale in exchange for a large amount of money, instructing traders to sell their positions in cash transactions and motivating them with bonuses. Layoffs start and Chief Risk Management Officer Sarah Robertson is blamed and fired as assets are sold at significant discounts. Sam is disappointed and wants to go, but Tuld points out that there has always been a balanced ratio of winners and losers during crises. Caught between the unreliable system and the temptation of financial reward, Sam decides to stick with the company for an additional two years in order to potentially increase his earnings.

Trivia

The movie was filmed within a span of 17 days.
The "The Jeremy Irons Visa Miracle Team" is featured in the ending credits of the movie. Jeremy's Irons's scenes were filmed just after his work visa expired. His firm had to quickly rush to obtain the work visa for him from the British Embassy, with the assistance of a couple of U.S. senators who sped up the typically two to three week process. This all occurred over the Fourth of July weekend, when Irons obtained his visa and flew from England to New York for the shoot.

Interesting anecdotes about the 2011 movie Margin Call from its director, J.C. Chandor

The sole number mentioned in the film, not including a quick trading moment, is when Simon Baker utters $8 trillion. This number was intended to reflect global events, not the characters' financial status.
The film's setting is not limited to a particular time period, allowing it to be placed in any era.
Chandor's personal investments in New York City real estate just before the financial crash had an impact on the screenplay.

Conclusion

The films listed here not only provide entertainment but also showcase impressive ambition and groundbreaking innovation, serving as a valuable lesson in entrepreneurship. Every individual holds valuable teachings on determination, creativity, and sticking to your goals against all obstacles. Next time you feel stuck or in need of a new outlook, consider that watching the right movie could give you the boost you need to regain motivation. Stay motivated, continue educating yourself, and most importantly, always pursue your entrepreneurial goals!

11 Must-Watch Movies for Entrepreneurs to Stay Inspired