Learning doesn’t happen only through studying and practice. The human mind retains information better when engaged in an enjoyable activity. That’s why play is one of the best ways to assimilate concepts and learn. For film lovers, movies serve the same purpose: in addition to having a good time, they allow us to learn and discover effortlessly. Best of all, we are more likely to retain these experiences.

For all movie enthusiasts, here is a list of films about the business world that teach us situations and lessons we can later apply at work through study and practice.

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The Godfather (1972)
Although it’s a film about criminals, it deserves a place on this list because it’s one of the greatest movies in history and depicts the growth of an organization from its beginnings.

If the viewing allows, pay attention to how the leader inspires his team and maintains success over time.

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The Social Network (2010)
While overly dramatized, it tells the story of Mark Zuckerberg and how he went from student to one of the most successful entrepreneurs of all time.

It’s interesting to see how a startup emerges, the challenges it faces, and how its leaders deal with them.

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The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, a self-made millionaire who perfectly embodies the “American dream.”

Beyond Will Smith’s brilliant performance, the film shows how the protagonist relentlessly pursues his goals despite numerous obstacles.

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Jerry Maguire (2006)
A story about someone who has it all but throws it away to chase his professional dream, against conventional wisdom.

The film explores how professional and personal life are interconnected and offers lessons on client relations.

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The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Depicts the excesses of business success and the dark golden age of the New York Stock Exchange.

Beyond Scorsese’s brilliance, it shows a confident protagonist with leadership qualities and outstanding sales skills.

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Chocolat (2000)
Juliette Binoche plays a newcomer to a small town who opens a chocolate shop.

The film teaches key retail principles: excellent customer service, personal connection, high-quality products, and passion for the business.

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The Aviator (2004)
Scorsese again tells the story of an iconic figure in American business.

Howard Hughes’ story is one of entrepreneurship, dedication, risk-taking, and business vision.

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The Method (2005)
Follows a group session with candidates for an executive position, pushing them to their limits to be chosen.

This is a film about talent and how far someone will go to ensure their strengths prevail.

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Big (1988)
A classic family film with Tom Hanks as a boy transformed into an adult by magic, marking his first major success.

Though pure fantasy, it highlights the importance of vocation and happiness in work. The piano scene is iconic in film history.

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Mondays in the Sun (2002)
A stellar cast brings to life one of the year’s most notable films. While it may seem like a harsh look at unemployment and industrial restructuring, it is highly realistic.

It’s recommended for understanding the context and appreciating people’s struggle to move forward.

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The Intern (2015)
In a comedic tone, Robert De Niro plays a 70-year-old intern in a film contrasting startup culture with traditional organizational models.

The protagonist shows that experience is an advantage and that it’s never too late to start something new.

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Wall Street (1987)
A classic film that made Gordon Gekko the embodiment of the ills of modern business life.

It reminds viewers that there are lines not to cross and that not everything is acceptable when pursuing professional gain.

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Pirates of Silicon Valley (1999)
A mockumentary about the beginnings of tech gurus Bill Gates and Steve Jobs (with other notable figures like Steve Wozniak).

It’s a fantastic opportunity to “relive” the exciting early days of these two geniuses.

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Up in the Air (2009)
A professional whose job is to fire employees spends so much time at airports that they become his home.

The film reflects on the lives of high-level executives, where almost no space remains for anything outside of business.