Best Documentaries About Money: Exploring Wealth, Power, and Society
Money shapes our world in profound ways, influencing everything from personal decisions to global economies. Documentaries about money offer a window into its complexities, revealing stories of ambition, inequality, and innovation. Below, we explore some of the best documentaries that dive into the world of finance, economics, and the human relationship with wealth. These films are engaging, thought-provoking, and perfect for anyone curious about the forces behind money.
1. The Ascent of Money (2008)
Based on Niall Ferguson’s book, The Ascent of Money traces the history of finance from ancient Mesopotamia to the 2008 financial crisis. This PBS series breaks down complex concepts like credit, bonds, and insurance, showing how they’ve shaped civilizations. With a clear, narrative-driven approach, it’s ideal for viewers new to economic history. The calm yet engaging storytelling makes dense topics accessible and fascinating.
Where to Watch: Available on PBS, Amazon Prime, or YouTube (check for regional availability).
Why Watch: Offers a sweeping look at how money has driven human progress and conflict.
2. Inside Job (2010)
Narrated by Matt Damon, Inside Job is a gripping exploration of the 2008 global financial crisis. It unravels the web of greed, deregulation, and risky banking practices that led to economic collapse. The film uses interviews with economists, insiders, and policymakers to explain what went wrong. Its measured tone keeps the focus on facts, making it a sobering yet enlightening watch.
Where to Watch: Stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Apple TV.
Why Watch: A clear, unflinching look at systemic failures in modern finance.
3. Money for Nothing: Inside the Federal Reserve (2013)
This documentary dives into the history and role of the Federal Reserve, the U.S. central bank that influences global markets. It examines the Fed’s decisions, from the Great Depression to the 2008 crisis, through interviews with economists and archival footage. The film’s steady pace and clear explanations make it a great primer on monetary policy.
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime or Kanopy.
Why Watch: Demystifies the Federal Reserve’s power and its impact on everyday life.
4. The True Cost (2015)
While not strictly about money, The True Cost explores the economic and human cost of the fast-fashion industry. It connects consumer spending to global supply chains, labor exploitation, and environmental damage. The film’s reflective tone encourages viewers to rethink their relationship with money and consumption. It’s a powerful look at how spending habits ripple across the world.
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or iTunes.
Why Watch: Highlights the hidden costs of cheap goods and consumerism.
5. Capital in the Twenty-First Century (2019)
Based on Thomas Piketty’s influential book, this documentary examines wealth inequality through history. It uses data, interviews, and pop culture references to explain how capital accumulation drives economic divides. The film’s calm, analytical approach makes complex economic theories approachable, offering insights into why inequality persists.
Where to Watch: Stream on Netflix or Kanopy.
Why Watch: A deep dive into the dynamics of wealth and inequality.
Why These Documentaries Matter
These films don’t just explain money—they show its impact on society, from individual lives to global systems. They invite reflection on how we earn, spend, and value wealth. Whether you’re a finance novice or an economics buff, these documentaries offer clarity and perspective in a world shaped by money.
Final Thoughts: Watching these documentaries can spark meaningful conversations about wealth, responsibility, and the systems we live in. Pick one, settle in, and let these stories deepen your understanding of money’s role in our world.