let’s be honest entrepreneurship can feel like a wild ride. Some days you are full of ideas and energy, and other days well, Netflix sounds way more tempting than your to-do list.

But what if I told you there are actually movies that can entertain you and fire up that business brain of yours? Yep, I am talking about movies that do not feel like boring business lectures but still leave you feeling inspired, ready to hustle, and maybe even launch that side project you’ve been dreaming about.

So grab your popcorn, sit back, and let me share some of my favorite movies every entrepreneur (or future entrepreneur!) should totally watch.

1. The Social Network

Let’s start with a classic. You’ve probably heard of it; it’s the story of how Facebook started. But trust me, it’s more than just tech talk. This movie is full of ambition, drama, friendships falling apart, and some serious startup hustle. Honestly, it made me want to open my laptop and build something right after watching.

What you’ll learn:

• How a small idea can turn into something massive

• That not all business partners stay friends

• The importance (and drama) of ownership and equity

2. The Pursuit of Happyness

Warning: this one might hit you in the feels. It’s based on a true story about a man who goes from sleeping in bathrooms with his kid to becoming a super successful stockbroker. It’s not flashy or about startups, but it’s about grit. And as an entrepreneur, grit is everything.

What you’ll feel:

• Inspired AF

• Grateful

• Ready to stop making excuses and keep pushing

3. Moneyball

I know it’s a baseball movie, but hear me out it’s actually about breaking the rules and doing business differently. Brad Pitt plays a manager who uses data instead of gut feelings to build a winning team. It’s kind of like using clever strategies instead of big money, which most of us can relate to.

Takeaway for entrepreneurs:

• Being different can be your superpower

• Data > guesswork

• You don’t need to be the richest to win

4. The Founder

Ever eaten at McDonald’s? (Of course you have.) This movie shows how the franchise exploded and the story behind the guy who made it happen. It’s kinda dark, kinda brilliant, and definitely makes you think about business in a new way.

Things you'll remember:

• Vision can beat ideas

• Business is ruthless sometimes

• Real estate might be more important than burgers

5. Steve Jobs

There are a few versions of this, but the 2015 one with Michael Fassbender is super sharp and stylish. It’s less about Apple products and more about the man behind them. Steve Jobs wasn’t perfect (far from it), but his obsession with quality, design, and changing the world? Totally next-level.

What stuck with me:

• Branding matters—like, really matters

• It’s okay to be obsessed with your work

• Being a jerk won’t always stop you from building an empire (but maybe try to be kind anyway)

6. Joy

This one a hidden gem! It’s about a woman who invents a self-wringing mop (sounds boring, but I promise it’s not) and ends up building a business empire from scratch. It’s got family drama, business struggles, and Jennifer Lawrence being amazing.

Perfect for:

• Aspiring female entrepreneurs

• Anyone dealing with doubters

• People who like a good underdog story

7. The Wolf of Wall Street

Okay, let’s get this out of the way: this movie is wild. Like, full of excess, chaos, and some seriously shady stuff. But behind all the madness, there’s a lesson (or five) about selling, confidence, and what not to do with success.

Watch it for:

• Killer sales motivation

• A reality check on greed

• Energy that’ll make you want to sell something

8. Chef

Need something light, feel-good, and full of flavor (literally)? Chef is about a guy who quits his fancy restaurant job to start a food truck. It’s not just about cooking it’s about passion, taking risks, and doing what you love on your own terms.

Entrepreneur vibes:

• Follow your gut (and taste buds)

• Sometimes small is better

• Social media is your best friend

Final Thoughts

Entrepreneurship in not all business books and TED Talks. Sometimes, the best lessons come with a bucket of popcorn and a good story. Whether you’re dreaming up your first startup, building your brand, or just needing a push on a lazy Sunday, these movies can seriously fuel your fire.

My advice? Next time you’re feeling stuck or unmotivated, don’t scroll aimlessly through Netflix. Pick one of these movies, press play, and let the inspiration roll in. You might just get your next big idea during the credits.

And hey, if you have got a favorite entrepreneur-style movie I missed, let me know; I’m always down for movie night!