Exploring the Genre of Financial Documentaries
If you were fascinated by Inside Job, a gripping documentary that delves into the 2008 financial crisis, you’ll be thrilled to explore more films in this genre. These movies not only educate but also entertain, offering a deeper understanding of the financial world. Here are 16 movies like Inside Job that you should definitely check out.

1. The Big Short

Based on Michael Lewis’s bestseller, The Big Short tells the story of a group of investors who bet against the housing market before the 2008 financial crisis. Directed by Adam McKay, this film stars Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt.

2. Margin Call

Margin Call is a tense drama that takes place over a 24-hour period at a large investment bank during the initial stages of the financial crisis. The film features a stellar cast including Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, and Zachary Quinto.

3. Too Big to Fail

This HBO film provides an inside look at the financial crisis and the actions taken to prevent the collapse of the global economy. Too Big to Fail stars William Hurt, Paul Giamatti, and Billy Crudup, offering a dramatic portrayal of real-life events.

4. Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room

This documentary examines the rise and fall of Enron, revealing the depths of corporate greed and corruption. Directed by Alex Gibney, it features interviews with former employees and journalists who covered the scandal.

5. The Wolf of Wall Street

Directed by Martin Scorsese, The Wolf of Wall Street is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who engages in rampant corruption and fraud. Leonardo DiCaprio stars alongside Jonah Hill and Margot Robbie in this high-energy film.

6. Capitalism: A Love Story

Michael Moore’s Capitalism: A Love Story explores the impact of corporate dominance on everyday Americans. This documentary is both poignant and provocative, featuring interviews with people affected by the economic downturn.

7. The Corporation

The Corporation is an in-depth documentary that critiques the modern corporation, comparing it to a psychopathic personality. The film includes interviews with Noam Chomsky, Naomi Klein, and Michael Moore.

8. Wall Street

Oliver Stone’s Wall Street is a classic drama that explores the dark side of finance through the eyes of a young stockbroker. Michael Douglas’s portrayal of the ruthless Gordon Gekko earned him an Academy Award.

9. American Psycho

While not a traditional financial documentary, American Psycho offers a satirical look at the excesses of Wall Street culture. Christian Bale stars as Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker with a dark side.

10. The China Hustle

This documentary uncovers a massive financial fraud involving Chinese companies and the American stock market. Directed by Jed Rothstein, The China Hustle is both eye-opening and alarming.

11. Rogue Trader

Rogue Trader tells the true story of Nick Leeson, whose risky trades led to the collapse of Barings Bank. Ewan McGregor stars in this gripping drama about ambition and failure in the financial world.

12. The Ascent of Money

Based on Niall Ferguson’s book, this documentary series explores the history of money and its impact on the world. The Ascent of Money is a comprehensive look at financial history, featuring interviews and historical reenactments.

13. Money for Nothing: Inside the Federal Reserve

This documentary provides an inside look at the Federal Reserve and its influence on the American economy. Featuring interviews with economists and former Fed officials, Money for Nothing is a must-watch for anyone interested in monetary policy.

14. Quants: The Alchemists of Wall Street

Quants: The Alchemists of Wall Street explores the role of quantitative analysts in the financial markets. This documentary sheds light on the complex algorithms and models that drive modern finance.

15. Inside the Meltdown

This PBS Frontline documentary examines the causes and consequences of the 2008 financial crisis. Inside the Meltdown features interviews with key players and provides a detailed analysis of the events leading up to the crisis.

16. The Flaw

The Flaw is a documentary that investigates the underlying causes of the 2008 financial crisis. Directed by David Sington, it features interviews with economists, financial experts, and ordinary people affected by the crisis.