8 Of The Best Financial Movie Thrillers Ranked

In recent years, films centered on financial crimes have gained tremendous popularity. The far-reaching consequences of the 2008 financial crisis have had a profound impact on the film industry. These movies have served as a medium to address questions about the crash and its aftermath, making it easier for the audience to grasp economic intricacies in an entertaining way. The financial thriller genre electrifies and entertains viewers by immersing them in a world of chaos, crime, and unbridled greed. Here are the top financial thrillers that captivate and provoke thought.

8. ‘The Banker’ (2020)

Unlike films that often sensationalize the crimes of the upper class, “The Banker” celebrates the achievements of marginalized individuals. This true story delves into the lives of Joe Morris (Samuel L. Jackson) and Bernard Garrett (Anthony Mackie), two Black bankers who used their system to finance their community. To avoid persecution, they enlisted the help of a white man (Nicholas Hoult) to publicly front their bank. Despite some controversy surrounding the film’s creative team, “The Banker” is an inspiring story, elevated by the performances of Jackson and Mackie.

7. ‘Arbitrage’ (2012)

Nicholas Jarecki’s 2012 thriller, “Arbitrage,” delves into the stark reality that those with wealth inhabit a different world from the rest. The film follows hedge fund manager Robert Miller (Richard Gere), who seeks assistance from a fixer (Nate Parker) to bury a scandal that threatens a critical business deal. Gere’s compelling performance, accompanied by Susan Sarandon, makes “Arbitrage” a mesmerizing exploration of wealth and privilege.

6. ‘The Wizard of Lies’ (2017)

Barry Levinson’s 2017 HBO biopic, “The Wizard of Lies,” is a crucial film that sheds light on one of the most terrifying financial crimes in recent history. Robert De Niro portrays Bernie Madoff, the investment advisor imprisoned for orchestrating a Ponzi scheme. Michelle Pfeiffer co-stars as his elusive and disgraced wife, Ruth. De Niro’s performance serves as a stark reminder of his acting prowess, and the film presents a chilling depiction of greed, guilt, and shamelessness.

5. ‘L’Argent’ (1983)

Robert Bresson’s 1983 adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s novella, “L’Argent,” explores the power of a forged banknote as it circulates among different characters in contemporary France. Bresson masterfully highlights the seductive nature of greed and exposes issues within the financial market, demonstrating that his commentary remains relevant to this day.

4. ‘Cosmopolis’ (2012)

David Cronenberg’s 2012 thriller, “Cosmopolis,” starring Robert Pattinson, showcases the life of a wealthy young man as he traverses the streets in a limousine amidst a chaotic protest. Despite its confined setting, the film captivates audiences and serves as a clinical satire of capitalism, offering a thought-provoking examination of its perils.

3. ‘Dark Waters’ (2019)

Todd Haynes’ “Dark Waters” is a powerful film based on the true story of Robert Bilott, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo. Bilott, a lawyer for DuPont, exposes the company’s pollution of a West Virginia community with dangerous chemicals. The film delves into legal and financial intricacies while Mark Ruffalo’s emotional performance reflects the infuriation caused by DuPont’s actions. “Dark Waters” masterfully combines financial and political elements with social commentary.

2. ‘Wall Street’ (1987)

Oliver Stone’s 1987 drama, “Wall Street,” is a straightforward depiction of the ethics of capitalism, with Michael Douglas delivering an Oscar-winning performance as Gordon Gekko. The film remains relevant today, emphasizing the dangers of greed and its pervasive influence. Stone returned to the world of “Wall Street” with the 2010 sequel, “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps,” which explored how the world had changed during Gekko’s imprisonment.

1. ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’ (1992)

“Glengarry Glen Ross,” directed by James Foley, is a corporate greed masterpiece based on David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. The film delves into the lives of various salesmen at a corporate office facing potential termination. The movie generates empathy for its characters, who come to realize the fragility of what they once believed to be secure. Alec Baldwin’s iconic “coffee is for closers” speech remains one of the most memorable monologues in film history. “Glengarry Glen Ross” serves as a stark reminder of capitalism’s treatment of its most eager participants and the financial perils of the modern world.