Being an entrepreneur means taking risks, solving problems, and learning from every win and every failure. But not all lessons come from books or business school—some of the best insights come from the big screen. Movies about business, startups, and success stories can inspire, educate, and energize anyone thinking about launching their own venture.
Here’s a list of must-watch movies that every aspiring entrepreneur should see.
The Social Network (2010)
Directed by David Fincher
This movie tells the story of how Facebook was created by Mark Zuckerberg and his college roommates. It dives into the highs and lows of building a tech startup, dealing with legal issues, and the cost of success.
Lesson: Great ideas come with big challenges. Timing, teamwork, and vision matter.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Starring Will Smith
Based on the real-life story of Chris Gardner, this movie is all about persistence. Gardner goes from being homeless to becoming a successful stockbroker.
Lesson: Never give up, even when things get tough. Hard work and belief in yourself can change everything.
Moneyball (2011)
Starring Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill
This film shows how Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland A’s baseball team, used data and analytics to build a winning team on a tight budget.
Lesson: Think differently. Disrupt old systems with new ideas and strategies.
Joy (2015)
Starring Jennifer Lawrence
“Joy” tells the story of Joy Mangano, a single mother who invented the Miracle Mop and built a business empire.
Lesson: Entrepreneurship is messy, but believing in your product and pushing through the struggle pays off.
The Founder (2016)
Starring Michael Keaton
This movie follows Ray Kroc, who turned McDonald’s into one of the biggest fast-food chains in the world.
Lesson: Vision, persistence, and scaling smart can turn a small idea into a global brand—but be careful about ethics along the way.
Startup.com (2001)
Documentary
This real-life documentary follows two childhood friends who launch an internet startup during the dot-com boom. It captures their struggles, internal conflicts, and eventual failure.
Lesson: Success isn’t guaranteed. Partnerships and business strategy are key to survival.
Steve Jobs (2015)
Directed by Danny Boyle, written by Aaron Sorkin
This isn’t a traditional biopic—it focuses on three key product launches in Steve Jobs’ life. The movie digs into his personality, leadership style, and creative drive.
Lesson: Innovation takes focus, courage, and strong leadership (even if it’s not always easy).
The Big Short (2015)
Directed by Adam McKay
This movie explains the 2008 financial crisis through the eyes of a few smart investors who predicted the crash. It’s both educational and entertaining.
Lesson: Look at what others miss. Understand risks and don’t follow the crowd blindly.
Jerry Maguire (1996)
Starring Tom Cruise
While it’s not a startup story in the traditional sense, this movie shows a man who walks away from a successful sports agency to start something new—with just one client.
Lesson: Relationships matter. Your values and passion can be your biggest assets.
Chef (2014)
Directed by Jon Favreau
After losing his job, a chef starts a food truck business. It’s a story about creativity, freedom, and doing what you love.
Lesson: Starting small can be powerful. Personal brand and passion can drive your success.
Movies can’t replace real-world experience, but they can spark your ambition, help you think in new ways, and remind you why you started dreaming in the first place. Whether it’s learning about leadership, taking risks, or staying true to your vision, these films are a great way to stay inspired.
So grab some popcorn and let your next business lesson come from the screen!