The Best Movies to Watch After CA Finals: A Guide for Future Professionals

Post CA Finals, it's important to celebrate your achievement while also staying engaged in your profession. Watching movies related to finance and business can not only enhance your understanding of the industry but also provide valuable insights into the lives of professionals. In this article, we will discuss some of the best movies that align well with your professional journey. These films cover various aspects of the finance and business world, making them excellent viewing options.

Finance Movies Recommended for CA Final Students

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

The Wolf of Wall Street is a scandalous and entertaining portrayal of Jordan Belfort, a broker who rose to fame through his complex business tactics and notorious lifestyle. This film offers a glimpse into the world of market manipulation, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of finance and the consequences of unethical practices. Despite its saturation with excessive content, it provides a case study of market behavior and the pitfalls of greed.

The Big Short (2015)

The Big Short is a critically acclaimed film that delves into the US housing market bubble and the subsequent financial crisis. It focuses on the four main characters who predicted the housing crisis and their strategies to make profits from the collapse of the Real Estate Market. The movie is both informative and engaging, providing an understanding of the mechanisms that led to the financial crisis and the ethical dilemmas faced by financial professionals during this period.

Margin Call (2011)

Margint Call offers a slightly more polished and less dramatic look at a single night in the life of an investment bank during a financial crisis. Although it may be a bit clunky at times, the film is worth watching for those interested in the intricate workings of high-stakes financial decisions. It provides insight into the stress and pressures that financial professionals face during critical moments, especially when navigating complex financial instruments and making crucial decisions under time constraints.

Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)

Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room sheds light on the Enron scandal, offering a comprehensive look at corporate governance and the dark side of ambition. The film details the collapse of Enron, one of the world’s largest energy companies, and the fraudulent practices that led to its downfall. If you are interested in the ethics of business and the importance of transparency, this movie is a must-watch. It also serves as an introduction to the concept of Corporate Governance, which is crucial for aspiring finance professionals.

American Psycho (2000)

American Psycho focuses on the life of a finance professional named Patrick Bateman, whose life is an absurd and violent comedy. While the movie may seem more aligned with literature, it has significant references to financial jargon and activities. The film is a critique of modern capitalism, consumer culture, and the human psyche. Through the character of Patrick Bateman, the movie explores themes of corporate identity and the relentless pursuit of success, making it a thought-provoking addition to the list.

Rouge Trader (1996)

Rouge Trader is based on the story of Nick Leeson, who caused one of the largest financial scandals in history, leading to the bankruptcy of Barings Bank. The film is an important reference for FRM (Financial Risk Manager) students, as it highlights the risks associated with excessive trading and the importance of risk management in the financial industry. It also serves as a case study on how individual greed can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Working Girl (1988)

Working Girl is a classic that offers a sarcastic and humorous look at corporate politics. Set in the world of investment banking, the movie follows('//*[@id"root"]/div[2]/div/div[1]/div[2]/div[1]/div/div[2]/p[8]/span'). The protagonist, Samantha B smirk, navigates through the cutthroat world of Wall Street with wit and determination. This movie is not only entertaining but also provides a realistic portrayal of corporate politics and the challenges faced by employees in the financial industry.

Wall Street (1987)

Wall Street is a timeless classic that explores the high-stakes world of finance and the pursuit of power and profit. The film follows the story of Gordon Gekko, a charismatic and controversial figure who pushes the boundaries of ethics in the pursuit of success. By the end of the movie, it becomes a cautionary tale about the price of ambition and the ethical dilemmas faced by financial professionals. It remains a recommended view any aspiring finance professional should watch, even though it hasn't been seen by me, many recommend it for its profound themes and gritty realism.

The Company Men (2012)

The Company Men is a modern take on the corporate world, examining the lives of three middle-aged men who have been laid off from their high-stakes jobs in finance. The movie explores the challenges they face in their mid-life crises and the difficulties of finding new purpose in an ever-changing job market. It highlights the resilience and adaptability required in the financial sector and is a compelling addition to your viewing list.

Conclusion

These movies offer a wealth of insights into the finance and business worlds, making them valuable viewing options for CA final students and aspiring professionals. From the scandals of Wall Street to the intricacies of corporate governance, these films provide a multidimensional look at the lives of finance professionals. After your CA finals, treat yourself to these movies, not only for entertainment but also for professional development. Happy viewing!