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5 Entertaining Movies that Can Teach You a Thing or Two About Money

Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA
03/10/2024 01:46 PM Comment(s)



The Oscars, also known as the Academy Awards, are only a few hours away. Many people love movies because they're fun to watch. While entertaining, there are some movies that can actually teach you a couple of things about money! Add these five entertaining movies to your watch list to be entertained and learn a little something about money.

Movie #1: The Godfather

The Godfather trilogy is considered one of the most famous and influential movies of all time, especially in the gangster genre. If you’re looking for action and drama, then this is the movie for you. Being a mobster film, it hits home the message that money talks. Additionally, there are some lessons to take away about taking a strong stance in any decision-making and understanding the value of a high price. 

Movie #2: Wall Street

Michael Douglas gave an Oscar-winning performance in this 1980’s business-themed film, Wall Street. There was an atmosphere of greed and corporate malfeasance that was incredibly characteristic of the time. Many people feel that today’s economic climate is a result of the mainstream that has adopted the teachings of the character of Gordon Gekko throughout the movie.

Movie #3: Boiler Room

This movie is about stockbrokers who use high-pressure sales techniques to make customers buy financial products that they do not need or want. Throughout the movie, you find out that even though not everyone works in sales, opportunity does come to people on a regular basis if you take the initiative and look for it. Of course, most people that work in sales are not like the characters in the movie, and the best don’t have to convince you of anything, they just have to represent a good product, answer questions accurately and honestly, and address any concerns you have. If you’re faced with anyone other than that, keep your guard up.

Movie #4: Glengarry Glen Ross

This movie discusses the importance of continuing to sell, better and harder even when the economy is turning down. Alec Baldwin’s character, Blake, is brought in to persuade a group of failing salesmen into producing better numbers. While his words may seem harsh they are meant to inspire and show that nobody reaches success without high confidence and sometimes drastic measures, especially in order to pull oneself out of a dangerous financial situation. 

Movie #5: Jerry Maguire

This movie is about a high-powered sports agent on the rebound. Tom Cruise’s character, Jerry Maguire, learns to value people above money. Even though his road may not be straight, he learns a lot about what it means to respect himself and others, and have strong business ethics. This movie is more about life paths and choices than money, but it teaches people about how to mix business with ethics and how to be a good person in the business world. 

While we wait for the spring and summer to take over from winter weather, now is the perfect time to stay in, cozy up and check out a few classic movies that can teach you a thing or two about business and finance. Happy viewing!

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This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as investment, tax, or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Digital assets and cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and could present an increased risk to an investors portfolio. The future of digital assets and cryptocurrencies is uncertain and highly speculative and should be considered only by investors willing and able to take on the risk and potentially endure substantial loss. Nothing in this content is to be considered advice to purchase or invest in digital assets or cryptocurrencies.






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