Best Financial Crisis Movies and TV Shows

100 dollar bills (find other photo??)

We have all had times of financial hardships and times when we are struggling. It’s nice when some of our favorite films and shows are able to relate to us on this level. These financial crisis movies and tv shows can help us feel like we are not alone. We often feel like we are the only ones going through tough times, but these show us that we are not. Here are some films, documentaries, and TV shows that talk about financial hardships– 

Pursuit of Happyness

Will Smith plays a father down on his luck who works hard to beat homelessness. He is able to build a stable life for him and his son, played by Jaden Smith. Will Smith plays a character named Chris who works as an unpaid intern at a brokerage firm in San Francisco. Throughout the film, he battles financial difficulties. He also competes with other interns for a full time position at the brokerage firm. This underdog storyline will leave you teary eyed, especially when you learn it was based on a true story. If you are interested in watching, you can find Pursuit of Happyness on Netflix.

It’s a Wonderful Life

We all know the holiday season is a time of joy. Yet, many of us are all too familiar with the financial burden the holiday season can bring. It’s a Wonderful Life is a holiday classic that carries a powerful message. George Bailey, played by James Stewart, falls into financial trouble. He misplaces his money needed for his building and loan business. In a dark headspace, George Bailey contemplates suicide one winter night. During this time, he is visited by his guardian angel, Clarence. Clarence shows him what the world would look like if he had never been born. In the end, George Bailey learns to count his blessings and be grateful for all he has. It’s a Wonderful Life was recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 best American films ever created. Be sure to check it out this upcoming holiday season on Prime Video. 

Undercover Boss 

Undercover Boss is a TV series that explores the personal and financial hardships of the workforce. In this show, high level executives go into the workplaces of their businesses. They do so to see the company from another perspective. Typically, the executives find that their employees are going through personal finance hardships. The executives see how the individuals bring their personal struggles into the workplace. At the end of the episode, the executives have the opportunity to give back to the employees they were working with. Undercover Boss is a perfect testament that you never know what others are going through. You might never know until you step into their shoes. You can check out episodes of Undercover Boss on Paramount Plus. 

In the end, movies and shows can transport us into a different world for a short period of time. They are able to help us see that we are not alone in our financial struggles. Be sure to check out these pieces of entertainment and many others that are out there!