As an entrepreneur when I kickback and relax I want to consume content that will inspire and motivate me. That’s why I created this list of my top 10 inspiration business movies – most available on Netflix. This is my hand picked, go-to list, not some regurgitated list. I hope you find some gold in here.
I put it in reverse order (obviously) as I’m a marketer and want to keep you engaged and scrolling this whole page. That’s also why I included trailers for these business movies for you to watch on my website 😉
#10 – The Last Dance – Netflix Limited Series
I know this is not a true business movie. But like I mentioned at the beginning these are movies that will INSPIRE you. And nothing has inspired me MORE than this Micheal Jordan documentary on Netflix. Seeing the way he trains, and the stories he tells himself to trick his mind into pursuing greatness is not only inspiration but it will show you the mentality you need to succeed.
#9 – The Wolf Of Wall Street – Netflix Business Movie
A classic, that I am sure you are not surprised is on this list. I tried to not include it on this best business movie list. But it’s just so damn good I can’t leave it off. Wolf of Wall Street, directed by Martin Scorsese, tells the outrageous true story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who rises to immense wealth through corrupt and fraudulent schemes. Played by Leonardo DiCaprio, Belfort indulges in a lavish lifestyle filled with excess, drugs, and parties, alongside his partner Donnie Azoff, portrayed by Jonah Hill. As the FBI closes in on his illegal activities, Belfort’s empire begins to crumble, leading to a spectacular fall from grace. The film is a wild ride of greed, decadence, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Downsides of this business movie
I hate the scaminess of the Wolf of Wall Street, and I think it’s inspired a lot of grifters and scammers, especially in the crypto space.
#8 – How The Economic Machine Works – Business Documentary FREE on YouTube
I believe that every entrepreneur should have a general understanding of macro economic cycles and stay in tune with where we are in the larger debt cycles. Ray Dalio is a generouse billionaire and hedge fund manager who’s book Principles is dedicated to helping the average person understand how the economy works.
#7 – The Social Network – not sure what platform you can find this movie on
Another classic business movie, but it’s now almost so old that a lot of people have forgot – or not seen this gem!
Directed by David Fincher, follows the creation of Facebook by Harvard student Mark Zuckerberg, who, after a messy breakup, launches the site with his friend Eduardo Saverin. As Facebook’s popularity explodes, Zuckerberg faces legal battles from the Winklevoss twins, who claim he stole their idea, and from Saverin, who feels betrayed by Zuckerberg’s business decisions. With snappy dialogue by Aaron Sorkin and a moody score, the film highlights the personal and ethical dilemmas behind the rise of one of the world’s most influential companies.
#6 – AIR – Movie about
AIR is a biographical sports drama that follows the story behind Nike’s pursuit of NBA rookie Michael Jordan in the 1980s to create what would become one of the most iconic and successful sneaker lines in history: the Air Jordan. Directed by Ben Affleck, who also stars alongside Matt Damon, the film explores the intense negotiations and visionary moves made by Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro (played by Damon) to secure Jordan’s endorsement, a risky endeavor that could make or break Nike’s struggling basketball division.
#5 – Tetris – Apple TV Business Movie
American entrepreneur, Soviet Tech – what a combination! The film follows Dutch video game designer Henk Rogers as he discovers Tetris and navigates the complex legal battles and geopolitical tensions during the Cold War to secure the game’s worldwide rights. With its mix of corporate intrigue, Soviet politics, and relentless determination, “Tetris” showcases the fascinating story behind one of the most popular and enduring video games in history.
#4 – The Playlist – Netflix
The Playlist is a gripping series that chronicles the rise of Spotify, the music streaming service that revolutionized the industry. It follows co-founder Daniel Ek and his team as they navigate the challenges of launching a disruptive technology, facing fierce opposition from record labels, and overcoming legal and financial hurdles.
With a blend of personal drama and business intrigue, The Playlist explores the relentless drive and innovative thinking that transformed how the world listens to music, while highlighting the cultural and economic impacts of streaming on the music industry.
#3 – We Crashed – Apple TV
WeCrashed tells the dramatic story of WeWork’s meteoric rise and stunning fall, focusing on its charismatic co-founder Adam Neumann, played by Jared Leto, and his wife Rebekah, portrayed by Anne Hathaway. The series explores their ambitious vision of creating a global coworking empire, fueled by bold ideas and extravagant spending.
As the company rapidly expands, cracks begin to show, leading to financial mismanagement, investor concerns, and a spectacular crash that forces Neumann out. WeCrashed delves into the complexities of entrepreneurship, hubris, and the fine line between visionary leadership and reckless ambition.
#3 Super Pumped – The Battle For Uber – Apple TV Series
Super Pumped follows the tumultuous journey of Uber, focusing on its controversial CEO, Travis Kalanick, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The series explores Kalanick’s aggressive tactics to dominate the ride-sharing industry, from relentless growth strategies to clashes with competitors, regulators, and even his own board.
As Uber’s valuation skyrockets, so do the scandals and ethical dilemmas, ultimately leading to Kalanick’s ouster. Super Pumped is a riveting look at Silicon Valley’s cutthroat culture and the high-stakes world of tech startups.
#2 – The Laundromat – Netflix
Open your eyes to the reality of entrepreneurs, business owners, and high net worth individuals and how they build shell companies across the world that hide their assets from oppressive taxation. The Laundromat, directed by Steven Soderbergh, is a darkly comedic film that uncovers the Panama Papers scandal. Starring Meryl Streep as a widow investigating insurance fraud, the movie delves into the world of offshore accounts and shell companies run by two charismatic lawyers, portrayed by Gary Oldman and Antonio Banderas.
Through a series of interconnected stories, The Laundromat exposes the widespread corruption and greed that enable the rich and powerful to exploit the global financial system. The film blends sharp satire with serious commentary on economic inequality and the pursuit of justice.
#1 – Shiny_Flakes: The Teenage Drug Lord – Netflix
As a digital marketer I’m well aware of the power of the internet. The reach you can have with your marketing is litterly unmatched. Shiny_Flakes: The Teenage Drug Lord is a gripping true-crime film that tells the story of Maximilian Schmidt, a teenager who built a multimillion-dollar drug empire from his bedroom. Using the online alias “Shiny Flakes,” Schmidt sold drugs via a sophisticated e-commerce platform, evading law enforcement for years.
The film explores his audacious rise, the intricacies of his operation, and the eventual police sting that brought him down. It’s a fascinating look at the intersection of technology, crime, and youth, revealing the dark side of the digital age.
