Lights, Camera, Profit: Our Top Films and Series to Stream About Business, Money and Founders

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In a world where the intricacies of the business realm often seem shrouded in mystery, there's something uniquely captivating about seeing these dynamics play out on the big and small screens. From the ruthless strategies of corporate giants to the inspiring journeys of ambitious entrepreneurs, films and TV series about business, money, and founding offer not only entertainment but also valuable insights into the complexities of the entrepreneurial landscape. Let's delve into some of the best offerings in this genre that have left audiences both entertained and enlightened.

The Social Network (2010):

David Fincher's masterful depiction of the rise of Facebook and its founder, Mark Zuckerberg, is a modern classic in the realm of business cinema. The film offers a gripping portrayal of the cutthroat world of tech entrepreneurship, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of success. Jesse Eisenberg's portrayal of Zuckerberg is both mesmerizing and chilling, capturing the essence of a visionary driven by a relentless desire to disrupt and dominate.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013):

Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo Di Caprio, this film is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who rose to immense wealth and notoriety through his firm, Stratton Oakmont. The film provides a wild ride through the excesses of Wall Street in the 1990s,showcasing the allure and consequences of unbridled ambition and financial greed. While it may be a cautionary tale, it's undeniably entertaining and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-stakes finance.

Breaking Bad (2008-2013):

While not solely focused on business, this critically acclaimed TV series offers a compelling exploration of the moral and ethical dilemmas inherent in entrepreneurship. Bryan Cranston's portrayal of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, is nothing short of iconic. As Walter descends deeper into the criminal underworld in pursuit of wealth and power, the series raises thought-provoking questions about the lengths people are willing to go to achieve success.

Billions (2016-2023):

This Showtime series delves into the world of high finance and power politics, focusing on the intense rivalry between hedge fund manager Bobby Axelrod (played by Damian Lewis) and U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades (played by Paul Giamatti). The show offers a fascinating glimpse into the innerworkings of Wall Street and the legal battles that ensue when personal ambition collides with the pursuit of justice. With its sharp writing and stellar performances, Billions is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the machinations of the financial world.

Startup.com (2001):

This documentary film follows the rise and fall ofgovWorks.com, an ambitious startup founded during the dot-com boom of the late1990s. Directed by Chris Hegedus and Jehane Noujaim, the film offers an intimate look at the challenges faced by entrepreneurs as they navigate the turbulent waters of the startup landscape. From initial excitement to eventual disillusionment, Startup.com is a sobering reminder of the harsh realities of entrepreneurship and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.

The Founder (2016):

Directed by John Lee Hancock, "The Founder" chronicles the fascinating story behind the creation and expansion of the fast-food empire McDonald's. Starring Michael Keaton as Ray Kroc, the film explores Kroc's journey from struggling salesman to the man who turned McDonald's into a global phenomenon. "The Founder" offers a compelling look at the complexities of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of innovation, perseverance, and sometimes ruthless ambition inbuilding a successful business empire. With its stellar performances and thought-provoking narrative, "The Founder" is a must-watch for anyone interested in the dynamics of business and the power of determination in the pursuit of success.

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The Apprentice UK (2005-present):

A British reality television series inspired by its American counterpart, "The Apprentice UK" follows a similar format, with contestants competing in business-related tasks under the scrutiny of a prominent business figure. Hosted by business magnate Lord Alan Sugar, the show offers a British perspective on entrepreneurship and corporate leadership. Contestants are challenged to demonstrate their business savvy, creativity, and teamwork skills as they vie for the opportunity to work with Lord Sugar. With its blend of high-stakes challenges, boardroom showdowns, and candid insights into the world of business, "The Apprentice UK" provides an entertaining and educational look at what it takes to succeed in the competitive landscape of business. Whether it's negotiating deals, managing teams, or facing the pressure of delivering results, the show offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders alike.

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Blackberry (2022):

Directed by Ava DuVernay, "Blackberry" is a gripping drama that tells the true story of the rise and fall of the once-dominant smartphone manufacturer, BlackBerry Limited. The film chronicles the company's ground breaking innovations in mobile technology, its meteoric rise to prominence, and the challenges it faced in adapting to an evolving market. Starring an ensemble cast including Michael B. Jordan, the film delves into the personal and professional struggles of key figures within the company as they navigate corporate intrigue, technological disruption, and internal power struggles. "Blackberry" offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of entrepreneurship, the risks of resting on past successes, and the importance of adaptability in the fast-paced world of technology. With its compelling narrative and stellar performances, "Blackberry" serves as a cautionary tale and a tribute to the visionary founders and innovators who dared to dream big in the cutthroat world of business.

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Dragons' Den (2005-present):

A British television series that has inspired versions around the world, "Dragons' Den" offers a unique platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to a panel of seasoned investors, known as "Dragons." The entrepreneurs must convince the Dragons of the viability and potential of their ventures in exchange for investment capital. The show provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of venture capital, entrepreneurship, and business negotiation. Viewers witness the highs and lows of entrepreneurial endeavours as contestants face tough questions, scrutiny, and potential rejection from the Dragons. With its mix of innovative ideas, entrepreneurial ambition, and high-stakes investment decisions, "Dragons' Den" offers valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey and the challenges of bringing a business concept to fruition. Whether it's securing investment funding, negotiating equity stakes, or refining business pitches, the show provides aspiring entrepreneurs with valuable lessons and inspiration to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams.

 
Jobs (2013):

Directed by Joshua Michael Stern, "Jobs" is a biographical drama that tells the story of the iconic entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple Inc., Steve Jobs. Starring Ashton Kutcher in the titular role, the film chronicles Jobs' journey from college dropout to one of the most influential figures in the technology industry. "Jobs" offers a compelling portrayal of Jobs' relentless drive, visionary leadership, and tumultuous relationship with colleagues and competitors alike. Through its exploration of key moments in Jobs' career, including the founding of Apple in his parents' garage, his ousting from the company, and his triumphant return, the film provides valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. With its emphasis on innovation, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence, "Jobs" serves as both a tribute to a visionary pioneer and a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

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House of Gucci (2021):

Directed by Ridley Scott, "House of Gucci" is a gripping crime drama based on the true story of the tumultuous rise and fall of the Gucci fashion empire. Starring an ensemble cast including Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, and Jared Leto, the film explores the intricate web of family drama, betrayal, and greed that ultimately leads to murder within the prestigious Italian fashion house. While not primarily focused on business in the traditional sense, "House of Gucci" offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-end fashion entrepreneurship and the complex dynamics of power and ambition within a wealthy family dynasty. With its lavish production design, captivating performances, and riveting storyline, "House of Gucci" is a compelling addition to the canon of films exploring the intersections of wealth, influence, and betrayal in the world of business.

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These films and TV series offer not only entertainment but also valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Whether it's the ruthless pursuit of success in The Social Network, the cautionary tale of excess in The Wolf of Wall Street, or the moral quandaries of Breaking Bad, each of these works provides unique insights into the complexities of the business world. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be both entertained and enlightened by these compelling stories of business, money, and foundership.

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