Business travel can often mean long hours, endless meetings, and a lack of downtime. However, one way to make the journey more enjoyable and perhaps even educational is by catching up on some must-watch movies that cater to the business traveler’s interests. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, entertainment, or a bit of industry insight, the following list of movies should keep you entertained and possibly even informed during your travels.
1. “The Social Network” (2010)
Theme: A gripping portrayal of the birth of Facebook and the rise of Mark Zuckerberg.
Why Watch: This movie offers a glimpse into the world of tech startups and the challenges that come with innovation and success. It’s a perfect watch for business travelers who are interested in the dynamics of entrepreneurship and the tech industry.
Details:
- The film is based on the real-life story of Facebook’s founder, Mark Zuckerberg.
- It highlights the importance of timing, strategy, and the power of social media in today’s business landscape.
- It’s a great example of how a small idea can become a global phenomenon.
2. “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013)
Theme: The rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who became one of the most notorious fraudsters in American history.
Why Watch: This film is a wild ride through the world of finance and the excesses of the 1980s and 1990s. It’s a cautionary tale for those in the business world and a fascinating look at the darker side of the industry.
Details:
- Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film stars Leonardo DiCaprio in a career-defining role.
- It’s a stark reminder of the risks involved in the world of finance and the importance of ethical business practices.
- The movie is known for its intense scenes and stellar performances.
3. “The Devil Wears Prada” (2006)
Theme: A young woman’s entry into the high-stakes world of fashion under the supervision of the demanding editor-in-chief of a prestigious magazine.
Why Watch: This film offers an insider’s look at the fashion industry and the intense competition that comes with it. It’s a great watch for those in the business world who are looking for a glimpse into another dynamic industry.
Details:
- The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Lauren Weisberger.
- It stars Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway in critically acclaimed performances.
- It’s a story of ambition, power, and the sacrifices made in the name of success.
4. “The Big Short” (2015)
Theme: A group of outsiders who predicted the 2008 financial crisis and made a fortune betting against the housing market.
Why Watch: This film is a compelling look at the financial industry and the importance of critical thinking and research in business decisions. It’s a must-watch for anyone in the business world who wants to understand the complexities of the financial sector.
Details:
- Directed by Adam McKay, the film stars Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt.
- It’s a story of greed, corruption, and the systemic failures that led to the global financial crisis.
- The film received critical acclaim and several Academy Award nominations.
5. “The Theory of Everything” (2014)
Theme: The life and work of physicist Stephen Hawking, who defied the odds to become one of the most influential scientists of our time.
Why Watch: This movie is a touching and inspiring story of perseverance, love, and the pursuit of knowledge. It’s a great watch for business travelers who value innovation and the human spirit.
Details:
- The film stars Eddie Redmayne in an Oscar-winning performance as Stephen Hawking.
- It’s a story of overcoming adversity and the power of the human mind.
- The movie offers a glimpse into the world of theoretical physics and the challenges of living with a disability.
6. “Moneyball” (2011)
Theme: The transformation of the Oakland Athletics baseball team through the use of sabermetrics, a statistical analysis system.
Why Watch: This film is a great example of how data-driven decision-making can revolutionize an industry. It’s a must-watch for business travelers who are interested in the role of analytics in today’s business world.
Details:
- Based on the book by Michael Lewis, the film stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics.
- It’s a story of innovation and the power of unconventional thinking.
- The movie received critical acclaim and several Academy Award nominations.
7. “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006)
Theme: The true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes a successful stockbroker despite facing numerous hardships.
Why Watch: This movie is an inspiring story of resilience and the power of never giving up. It’s a great watch for business travelers who need a reminder of the importance of perseverance and hard work.
Details:
- The film stars Will Smith and his real-life son, Jaden Smith.
- It’s a story of hope, love, and the pursuit of a better life.
- The movie received critical acclaim and several Academy Award nominations.
Conclusion
While the world of business can be challenging, taking a break to watch one of these must-watch movies can provide inspiration, entertainment, and perhaps even some valuable insights. So, the next time you find yourself unpacking your suitcase for a business trip, consider popping in a DVD or streaming one of these films for a bit of downtime that’s both enjoyable and educational.