10 Must-Watch Movies About Money and Greed That Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat
- Annette Harris
- Jun 3, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 16
Are you fascinated by the psychology behind financial decisions? Do you wonder what drives people to extreme measures when money is involved? These thrilling movies about money and greed will entertain you and provide profound insights into human nature. Perfect for adult viewers, these films explore the complex world of finance, deception, and the lengths people will go to for wealth.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, and based on my past viewing of these movies, you'll be shocked at the value they bring.
Top Ten Movies About Money and Greed for Adults
Why you'll be hooked: This psychological thriller follows John, a bank robber who thinks he's found the perfect hideout. What unfolds is a masterclass in plot twists and unexpected turns.
When John believes he's safe, the police investigation begins to uncover shocking secrets that lead him down a path of intricate deception. The Perfect Host brilliantly demonstrates how everyone has their own agenda when money is involved.
The film's unpredictable narrative will keep you questioning everything you think you know. If you enjoy movies that challenge your perception and deliver jaw-dropping revelations, this is a must-watch thriller you won't soon forget.
Why you'll be hooked: This gripping drama exposes the dark side of the pharmaceutical industry and the opioid crisis.
Crisis takes you into the world of doctors who provide painkillers to vulnerable patients for profit while cops attempt to catch them in the act. Simultaneously, a professor discovers inconsistencies in his research for a new drug and must decide whether to become a whistleblower—potentially destroying his career and the college's financial future.
This powerful film tackles grief, greed, and life-altering decisions that will leave you questioning the ethics of our healthcare system. The performances are riveting, and the storylines intersect in ways that will keep you thinking long after the credits roll.
Crisis revolves around grief, greed, and gripping decisions in crucial situations.
Why you'll be hooked: Based on a true story, this legal drama combines humor with heart as an unlikely duo takes on corporate America.
When Jeremiah O'Keefe faces losing everything due to shady business practices, he partners with charismatic attorney Willie Gray to fight for his family business against a powerful corporation. The Burial delivers a perfect blend of legal drama, corporate corruption, and unexpected friendship.
The chemistry between the leads makes this David vs. Goliath story both inspiring and entertaining. You'll find yourself cheering for the underdogs while getting a fascinating glimpse into the world of corporate takeovers and legal maneuvering.
Why you'll be hooked: This heartwarming yet tension-filled drama shows the lengths people will go to for prime real estate.
Noah Dearborn, a skilled carpenter, becomes the target of developer Christian Nelson, who desperately wants his valuable property. When Noah refuses increasingly generous offers, Christian schemes to have him declared mentally incompetent—revealing the dark side of real estate development.
The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn powerfully illustrates how money can corrupt relationships and moral judgment. The film's authentic portrayal of rural life and property battles will resonate with anyone who has witnessed the transformation of small towns by big development.
Why you'll be hooked: This biographical drama takes you inside the mind of one of history's most notorious financial criminals.
The Wizard of Lies provides an unflinching look at Bernie Madoff's $50 billion Ponzi scheme through interviews conducted by Diana Henriquez while Madoff serves his prison sentence. The film expertly reveals how Madoff's empire crashed in December 2008 and the devastating impact on his family and victims.
Robert De Niro's mesmerizing performance captures Madoff's complex psychology, making this more than a financial crime story. It's a chilling reminder to be vigilant about who you trust with your money and the devastating consequences of financial fraud.
Why you'll be hooked: This Oscar-winning documentary delivers a comprehensive and shocking explanation of the 2008 financial crisis.
Inside Job meticulously examines how the collapse of Iceland's economy (with $100 billion in losses against a $13 billion GDP) foreshadowed a global financial disaster. Through interviews with financial executives, economists, and world leaders, the film uncovers the truth behind the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers and the collapse of AIG—events that doubled the national debt and left millions unemployed.
The film's ability to break down complex financial concepts into understandable terms makes it essential viewing for anyone interested in economics or recent history. The raw, unfiltered reactions of those interviewed—from open honesty to stunned silence—reveal volumes about the culture of Wall Street.
Why you'll be hooked: This Oscar-winning South Korean thriller blends dark comedy with social commentary.
Parasite follows the Kim family as they infiltrate the wealthy Park household through elaborate deception. What begins as a scheme for survival soon spirals into something far more sinister as greed takes hold.
Director Bong Joon-ho's masterpiece will make you laugh and gasp the next. The film's stunning cinematography and brilliant performances create a perfect allegory for wealth inequality that will leave you questioning social structures and your relationship with money.
Why you'll be hooked: This powerful drama follows strong Black women facing systemic economic barriers with courage and community.
The Women of Brewster's Place centers on residents of a run-down building, including single mother Mattie Michael, ambitious Etta Mae Johnson, and activist Kiswana Browne. The film doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of poverty—from rat infestations to inadequate healthcare—but also celebrates the human spirit and community resilience.
With outstanding performances from an ensemble cast, this film puts a human face on economic struggle. It's an emotional journey that will give you a deeper understanding of how poverty shapes lives and the importance of community in overcoming adversity.
Why you'll be hooked: This critically acclaimed drama offers a child's-eye view of poverty in the shadow of Disney World.
The Florida Project follows families living in extended-stay hotels near Orlando, where parents work low-paying jobs while children roam freely. Through the eyes of young Moonee, we see the precarious nature of life on the economic edge—where a single setback can lead to homelessness.
Willem Dafoe delivers a standout performance as Bobby, the hotel manager who tries to protect the children. The film's vibrant cinematography contrasts with its sobering subject matter, creating an unforgettable viewing experience that will bring you to tears while expanding your understanding of America's hidden poverty.
Why you'll be hooked: This real-time thriller combines edge-of-your-seat suspense with biting commentary on financial media.
When a gunman takes financial TV host Lee Gates (George Clooney) hostage on live television after losing his life savings on a bad stock tip, the truth behind an $800 million "glitch" begins to unravel. Money Monster delivers nail-biting tension while exposing the dangers of mindlessly following financial advice.
The film's real-time format creates incredible suspense as Gates and his producer (Julia Roberts) race to uncover the truth before it's too late. Anyone who has ever invested in the stock market—or considered doing so—will find this thriller entertaining and cautionary.
What to Watch Next?
These compelling films about money and greed offer more than just entertainment—they provide valuable insights into human nature and the powerful influence of wealth on decision-making. Each film explores different aspects of our complex relationship with money, from psychological thrillers to documentaries.
Before you make your next financial decision, take time to watch these eye-opening movies. They'll remind you to stay vigilant against the money monsters lurking in the shadows, ready to prey on unsuspecting victims.
Don't have Amazon Prime? Start a Free 30-Day Trial today to watch thousands of movies and TV shows anytime!
Which of these money-themed movies will you watch first? Share your thoughts in the comments below!