Money makes the world go round… and it also fuels some of the most fascinating stories. Whether you want to understand how the global economy works, get inspired by figures like Warren Buffett, or discover the inner workings of Wall Street, this list is for you.
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We've curated a selection of films, documentaries and series that will make you see finance from a whole new perspective.
Financial education with a good dose of entertainment. Here’s the top pick of series, documentaries and films, updated for 2025:

🎬 Documentaries and Series to Understand the Power of Money

• Becoming Warren Buffett (HBO Max)
  A deep dive into the life of the legendary investor from Omaha, who built a fortune with a clear strategy and long-term vision. Perfect to understand the value of time, frugality and patience in building wealth.
• Dirty Money (Netflix)
  This gripping documentary series uncovers financial scandals, corporate fraud and corruption in companies like Volkswagen and Wells Fargo. A powerful warning about the misuse of economic power.
• Saving Capitalism (Netflix)
  Former US Labour Secretary Robert Reich explores the roots of economic inequality and provides a critical reflection on the modern capitalist system and its future.
• This Giant Beast That is the Global Economy (Prime Video)
  An energetic, visually dynamic series that breaks down complex topics like money laundering, artificial intelligence and international debt. Hosted by Kal Penn, it explains it all with wit and clarity.
• The Men Who Built America (History Channel / Prime Video)
  The story of the industrial titans who shaped modern America’s economy—Vanderbilt, Rockefeller, Carnegie, Morgan and Ford. A tale of ambition, innovation and ruthless rivalry.
• Agnelli (HBO Max)
  An intimate portrait of Gianni Agnelli, the man behind the Fiat empire, who played a defining role in shaping Italy’s post-war economy. Charisma, power and a lasting legacy.
• Banking on Bitcoin & The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (Netflix, depending on region)
  Two essential documentaries exploring the birth of Bitcoin, the people behind its rise, and how it’s reshaping modern finance.
• The Toys That Made Us (Netflix)
  Beyond nostalgia, this series reveals how brands like LEGO and Barbie transformed global consumer habits and built massive business empires.
• Get Smart With Money (Netflix)
  Real people take charge of their finances with the help of money coaches. Practical advice and relatable stories that show how financial wellbeing is achievable.
• The Great Hack (Netflix)
  An eye-opening documentary about how data is used in political campaigns and its powerful impact on the digital economy. It’ll make you rethink the value of your personal information.
• The Shadow of Gold (Prime Video, depending on region)
  A critical look at the global gold industry—from mining to banking reserves—uncovering its environmental, social and economic impact.
• Confessions of a Banker (Check independent film platforms)
  A candid look inside the banking world, told by insiders. Raw, honest, and thought-provoking.

🍿 Films That Explore Wealth, Ambition and Finance

• Wall Street (Available for rent or purchase online)
  A financial cinema classic. Gordon Gekko is the embodiment of unchecked ambition. “Greed is good”… or is it?
• The Big Short (Netflix / Prime Video)
  Based on real events. A group of investors spotted the 2008 crisis before anyone else—and profited from it. A must-watch to understand the failure of mortgage systems and financial derivatives.
• The Wolf of Wall Street (Netflix / Prime Video)
  The wild rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who amassed a fortune through fraud. A fast-paced story of excess, manipulation and the cost of reckless ambition.

Why These Titles Matter

These films and documentaries do more than entertain:

• They help you understand how global money flows and markets operate.
• They inspire you with real-life success stories and bold strategies.
• They warn you about the dangers of unchecked power and financial mismanagement.
• And most importantly, they motivate you to make more informed decisions with your own money.

Note: Availability may vary by country, so it’s best to search for each title on your local streaming platforms.

Not sure where to begin? At Stalvian, we encourage you to keep learning and expanding your financial knowledge, because the more you know, the better you’ll invest.

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