Wow, I’m amazed the American Film Institute hasn’t already done the 100 best business movies. American.com did it first, but only with 10 instead of 100. I’ve seen about half of the movies listed and don’t remember most of them.
Do you think these represent the top 10? Please add your ideas in the comments. Let’s see what other business-related movies exist (this could take me a long time, so it’s far from complete):
Wall Street: A young stockbroker does anything to get to the top including insider trading.
It’s a Wonderful Life: Say what you will about its sugary sweet story, but George Bailey had big dreams of traveling the world and instead stayed in his town for the greater good.
Nine to Five: So this is over the top, but the hidden message is getting revenge on an awful boss. Haven’t we all had bosses or co-workers who make our lives miserable?
Shall We Dance? A movie from Japan where an overworked accountant finds enjoyment in dancing. Many can relate to working too much.
All About Eve: While the movie focuses on the lives of Broadway stars, its meaning applies to business as plenty of ambitious people betray coworkers to move to the top.
Disclosure: Sexual harassment, stealing ideas, promotion, and politics.
Woman of the Year and Adam’s Rib: A couple’s jobs cross lines. Paul and I worked for the same company twice and in one instance, he was some of my coworker’s field manager.
Stand and Deliver: A math teacher constantly fights the powers that be to make a difference. How many of us try to make a difference, but run into trouble with upper management? Also in The Pajama Game.
Philadelphia represents people who get ousted at work under special circumstances (in this case, AIDS) and sue the business.
Erin Brockovich: An unemployed single-mother brings down a power company. Struggles of parenting and working. Little fish vs. big fish.
Office Space: Don’t we all want a cool office supply like the red stapler? Seriously, downsizing, hating the job, and dealing withthe process.
How about Desk Set, another Tracy and Hepburn flick? While the core theme is one of romance (of course), there’s also the underlying plot of the research department staffers afraid they’re being replaced by a computer. This is one of my favorite movies (and a Christmas one, too!).
Dawn
Well, don’t forget The Firm (a nice view into the lawyer business).