Financial Documentaries

Best Financial Documentaries To Watch on Netflix (Get Rich)

If you’re looking to educate yourself on the world of finance, financial documentaries are a great place to start. 

Netflix offers an impressive selection of compelling films that provide unique insight into the world of finance. 

From the ups and downs of Wall Street to stories of everyday people struggling with their finances, these financial documentaries offer a wealth of knowledge. 

Here are five of the best financial documentaries currently streaming on Netflix.

1) The Minimalists: Less is Now

The Minimalists: Less is Now is a thought-provoking financial documentary that will inspire you to reevaluate your relationship with money and possessions. 

The film follows the journey of Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known as “The Minimalists,” as they explore the idea of living a more intentional and fulfilling life with less.

As someone who has always been interested in the minimalist lifestyle, I was immediately drawn to this documentary. 

It didn’t disappoint. The film dives deep into the concept of minimalism, explaining how it can lead to greater happiness and financial freedom. It challenges the societal notion that more stuff equals more happiness and shows that the pursuit of material possessions often leads to stress and discontentment.

What I appreciated most about this documentary is that it didn’t just focus on the benefits of minimalism, but also addressed the challenges and misconceptions surrounding it. 

It explores the emotional attachment we have to our belongings and the fear of letting go. The Minimalists share their own personal stories of transformation, which makes the documentary relatable and inspiring.

The film also touches on the environmental impact of consumerism and the connection between material possessions and our overall well-being. It made me reflect on my own spending habits and the things that truly bring me joy in life.

Overall, The Minimalists: Less is Now is a must-watch for anyone interested in simplifying their life and finding greater fulfillment. It’s a reminder that true wealth lies not in the accumulation of possessions, but in the quality of our relationships, experiences, and personal growth.




2) Betting on Zero

Betting on Zero is a gripping and eye-opening financial documentary that delves into the controversial world of multi-level marketing (MLM) and specifically focuses on one company: Herbalife. This film follows the story of Bill Ackman, a billionaire hedge fund manager, as he sets out on a mission to expose what he believes is a pyramid scheme disguised as a legitimate business.

I have to admit, I had very little knowledge about MLMs before watching this documentary. 

But wow, it was eye-opening! The film sheds light on the deceptive practices and manipulation tactics used by MLMs to recruit distributors and sell their products. It exposes how people are lured into the promise of financial freedom and success, only to end up losing everything.

What struck me the most was the personal stories of those affected by Herbalife. From immigrant communities who invested their life savings into the company to distributors who were left drowning in debt, the human impact of MLMs is truly heartbreaking. 

Betting on Zero does a fantastic job of giving these individuals a voice and bringing their stories to light.

While this documentary focuses on one company, it raises larger questions about the ethical implications of MLMs as a whole. It made me question the legitimacy of similar businesses and consider the potential harm they can cause to vulnerable individuals seeking financial stability.

Overall, Betting on Zero is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that exposes the dark side of MLMs and challenges viewers to question the systems and industries we trust. It’s a wake-up call to be more discerning consumers and to prioritize the well-being of others over financial gain.




3) Dirty Money

Dirty Money is a captivating financial documentary series that exposes corporate greed, corruption, and financial crimes. Each episode focuses on a different case, shedding light on the unethical practices of various industries and the devastating effects they have on individuals and society as a whole.

I have to admit, this series left me feeling outraged and astonished at the audacity of some of these companies. 

From Volkswagen’s emission scandal to the corruption within the pharmaceutical industry, Dirty Money uncovers the dark underbelly of corporate America. It reveals how greed and a lack of accountability can lead to immense harm, both financially and morally.

What I appreciated most about Dirty Money is that it doesn’t just present the problem; it also highlights those who fought against the corruption. It showcases whistleblowers, investigative journalists, and individuals who refused to stay silent in the face of wrongdoing. 

These stories of bravery and resilience serve as a reminder that change is possible and that standing up for what is right can make a difference.

Watching Dirty Money made me question the systems and institutions we rely on. It made me more aware of the importance of holding companies accountable for their actions and advocating for transparency and ethical business practices.

If you’re ready to open your eyes to the darker side of finance and learn about the individuals and organizations fighting against corruption, Dirty Money is a must-watch. It will challenge your beliefs, ignite a fire within you, and inspire you to take action in your own life and in the world around you.




4) Inside Job

Inside Job is a critically acclaimed financial documentary that provides a comprehensive and eye-opening analysis of the 2008 global financial crisis. 

Narrated by Matt Damon, this film takes you behind the scenes of the financial industry, revealing the corrupt practices and unethical behavior that led to the collapse of the economy.

I have to admit, this documentary left me feeling both shocked and enraged. It unveils the extent of the greed, fraud, and negligence that permeated the industry, leading to millions of people losing their homes, jobs, and savings. 

Inside Job not only explains the complex financial instruments and systems that contributed to the crisis but also exposes the revolving door between Wall Street and government, showcasing the blatant conflicts of interest and lack of regulation.

What I found most captivating about Inside Job is its ability to break down complex economic concepts and make them accessible to the average viewer. It uses interviews with prominent economists, journalists, and financial insiders to explain how the crisis unfolded and its lasting impact on society.

This documentary served as a wake-up call for me, making me question the inherent flaws and vulnerabilities of the financial system. It highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency within the industry and reinforced the importance of educating oneself about personal finance.

If you’re ready to delve into the dark side of the financial industry and gain a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of the 2008 crisis, Inside Job is a must-watch. Prepare to be informed, outraged, and inspired to make a change.




5) Money, Explained

Money, Explained is a fascinating and informative financial documentary series that dives deep into various aspects of money and its impact on our lives. From the history of money to the psychology of spending, this series covers a wide range of topics that are relevant to everyone, regardless of their financial background.

I found Money, Explained to be incredibly educational and eye-opening. It breaks down complex financial concepts in a way that is easy to understand, using relatable examples and real-life stories. 

The series explores the psychology behind our financial decisions, delves into the world of credit cards and debt, and even tackles the concept of cryptocurrency.

One episode that particularly stood out to me was the one on the gender pay gap. It shed light on the systemic issues that contribute to unequal pay between men and women, and highlighted the importance of advocating for equal rights and opportunities in the workplace.

Money, Explained also addresses the role of money in relationships, discussing topics like financial infidelity and the impact of financial stress on marriages. 

It made me reflect on my own attitudes towards money and the importance of open and honest communication about finances with my partner.

Overall, Money, Explained is a must-watch for anyone looking to gain a better understanding of money and how it influences our lives.

It’s not just about the numbers and the dollars, but about the psychological, social, and cultural factors that shape our relationship with money. So grab some popcorn, get cozy, and prepare to have your mind blown by this thought-provoking series.