7 of the Best Business Movies for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Beloved movies usually offer more than lighthearted entertainment. The medium is also well-suited for teaching priceless lessons about life and business. If you're a budding entrepreneur or looking to make a name for yourself in the professional world, be sure to check out these business movies.

1. "The Founder"

Like other entries on this list, this movie warns about the cutthroat side of commerce. While painting the stark reality of the unscrupulous lengths some may go to to achieve success, the story highlights the value of perseverance and keeping an eye out for lucrative new business trends that meet customer needs.

"The Founder" summarizes the true story of how Ray Kroc took control of the McDonald's restaurant chain and turned it into the multibillion-dollar behemoth it is today. The film can be an inspiration for professionals of any age, as Kroc didn't stumble upon the operation until he was over 50 years old. 

At the same time, you can take a lesson from the McDonald brothers and their ability to perfect a service system to peak efficiency. You also learn to pay close attention to any deals you make and never underestimate your opponent or partners.

2. "Moneyball"

If you enjoy sports as well as business, you must watch this excellent depiction of succeeding as a franchise in America's favorite pastime. "Moneyball" teaches numerous lessons about how to triumph on a budget.

This picture tells the true story of Billy Beane, who was able to help the Oakland A's baseball team remain competitive against wealthier competition. Beane used an innovative system for discovering overlooked talent and building a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts.

3. "Joy"

Too few business movies focus on successful women who made an indelible mark. "Joy" is a biopic that shares the story of Joy Mangano, who overcame her insecurities and refused to give up, eventually creating a multimillion-dollar empire.

Many business professionals appreciate the lessons here about focusing on an effective sales and marketing strategy and systematically pursuing your passion. The film also demonstrates the value of relying on trusted advisors to make intelligent tactical maneuvers.

4. "Becoming Warren Buffett"

Surprisingly unassuming and down-to-earth, Warren Buffett appears to be the most unlikely investing genius. However, no one can argue with results, and the Oracle of Omaha has those in spades.

This documentary is perfect if you don't have the time to read a biography but want a clear peek into the life of one of the world's most successful individuals. You'll also gain critical insights into how to stay grounded once you become fabulously wealthy.

5. "Citizen Kane"

Film critics and historians consistently laud "Citizen Kane" as one of the best American moving pictures. Orson Welles' filmmaking techniques revolutionized movies, but the film also teaches a potent allegory about not focusing too much on wealth. No matter how successful you become, you must always remember where you came from.

6. "Steve Jobs"

What goes into becoming one of the most influential innovators of the technological era? Steve Jobs' story relays how he surmounted numerous failures and maintained an uncompromising vision. Like other biopics on this list, an ambitious entrepreneur can learn a lot about what not to do while absorbing insight into what it really means to "think different."

7. "Margin Call"

You can learn much about business from things that go spectacularly wrong. "Margin Call" tells the story of the beginning of the 2008 financial crisis and how it affected different types of people. Look out for tips on how to weather a crisis. This tale is also a powerful reminder about knowing where your money goes and recognizing when an investment is unsound.

You can find many other movies that teach valuable life and business lessons. Building a business is hard work, and you'll need a break every so often. Put on one of these films for a movie night of guilt-free entertainment because you'll be learning essential pointers as you watch.