Business documentaries offer an exceptional and eye-opening view into the world of commerce and entrepreneurship. They go beyond just surface-level knowledge and explore the nitty-gritty of successful and failed businesses and the people who run them. The documentaries usually feature interviews with industry experts, old footage, and insightful analysis of business decisions and strategies. Whether you’re a hopeful entrepreneur, a business student, or just generally interested in the business world, these best business documentaries can offer you some great lessons and inspiration. In this list, we will highlight some of the best business documentaries out there that give you an inside look into finance, entrepreneurship, and corporate culture.
Money, Power, and Ethics: Best Business Documentaries
What sets these best business documentaries apart is that they don’t just show a glossy overview of companies. Instead, you get to take a critical look at what makes them tick. They delve into the decision-making process and strategies companies use to achieve their goals and the risks involved in the business world. This helps viewers to gain a better understanding of the business world and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with it.
These documentaries use various techniques to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of businesses. This includes interviews with industry experts, employees, and sometimes even the founders or CEOs themselves. Archival footage is often used to show the evolution of a company from its early days to the present.
Watch and Learn from the Best Business Documentaries
The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)
Considered among the best business documentaries, this film explores the rise and fall of the energy company Enron. The company was involved in one of the largest corporate scandals in history.
This compelling documentary film exposes the fraudulent practices that led to the downfall of Enron, once a powerful energy company. The film provides a deep insight into the toxic corporate culture at Enron, driven by greed and unethical behaviour. Through interviews with former employees, journalists, and government officials, the documentary highlights the importance of transparency and ethical leadership in businesses. This cautionary tale highlights the dangers of corruption and greed in the corporate world. It provides valuable lessons for anyone interested in the world of finance, entrepreneurship, and corporate culture.
Inside Job (2010)
This is one of the best business documentaries investigating the 2008 global financial crisis. It highlights the contributing factors that lead to the crisis, including the role of Wall Street and government regulators.
The film provides a detailed examination of the unethical and fraudulent practices that led to the crisis. It highlights the role of regulators, rating agencies, and other key players in the financial industry. Through interviews with financial experts, politicians, and industry insiders, the documentary exposes the systemic corruption and conflicts of interest that contributed to the crisis. “Inside Job” is a powerful and informative film. It provides a critical perspective on the global financial system and warns against the dangers of unchecked corporate power.
The Corporation (2003)
This film examines the nature and impact of corporations on society. The film asks the question whether corporations should be considered legal entities with the same rights as individuals.
“The Corporation” is a thought-provoking documentary film released in 2003, exploring the rise of corporate power and its impact on society. The documentary examines the nature and behaviour of corporations. Using case studies, the film illustrates how they have impacted the world regarding human rights, environmental issues, and social justice. It also explores the legal and regulatory frameworks that have enabled corporations to gain such enormous power and influence. Through interviews with activists, academics, and industry insiders, the film raises critical questions about the role of corporations in modern society. It challenges viewers to consider the ethical implications of corporate power.
The Startup Kids (2012)
This documentary follows several young entrepreneurs in the tech industry as they try to build and grow their startups.
“The Startup Kids” is a compelling documentary film released in 2012. It explores the world of young entrepreneurs in the tech industry. The documentary follows a group of young entrepreneurs from the US and Europe who have launched their own startups and provides insights into their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, the film highlights the importance of creativity, resilience, and innovation in the startup world, as well as the role of technology in driving entrepreneurship. “The Startup Kids” is an inspiring and informative film. It offers valuable insights and lessons for anyone interested in the world of entrepreneurship and tech startups.
Betting on Zero (2016)
This film explores the controversy surrounding Herbalife, a multi-level marketing company accused of being a pyramid scheme.
“Betting on Zero” is a 2016 documentary film that exposes the deceptive practices of the multi-level marketing company Herbalife. The film follows a hedge fund manager who launches a crusade against the company and its pyramid scheme. He claims that the company is exploiting and deceiving thousands of people. Through interviews with former Herbalife distributors and experts in the field of multi-level marketing, the film sheds light on the harmful impact of these types of business models on individuals and communities. “Betting on Zero” is a compelling and thought-provoking film. It raises important questions about the ethics of business and the role of regulation in protecting consumers from exploitation.
Uncover the Truth
In addition to their valuable insights, these best business documentaries are a great source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. They showcase stories of hard work, persistence, and innovative thinking that can motivate and encourage individuals to pursue their own business ventures.
Finally, business documentaries are an excellent way to better understand the business world. They offer valuable lessons and inspiration to help individuals succeed in business.
