Best Documentaries About Business

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Written By Habiba Abdou

Insightful Films for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Top business documentaries have the power to inform, inspire, and educate audiences about the complex world of commerce. With captivating stories, in-depth analysis, and real-life examples, these films provide invaluable insights into the successes and failures of entrepreneurs, corporations, and economic trends. In this article, we will explore some of the most inspiring business documentaries that you should definitely add to your watchlist.

From tales of ambitious startups and cutting-edge innovations to a behind-the-scenes look at well-established corporations, these documentaries span a wide range of topics, shedding light on various aspects of the business world. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of the global economy, there is something for everyone.

As we delve into these fascinating films, prepare to discover the intricate relationships between commerce, politics, technology, and society. Throughout this journey, we will uncover the bold strategies, fierce competition, and captivating personalities that define today's business landscape. So, grab some popcorn and get ready to dive into the best business documentaries that are guaranteed to pique your curiosity and stimulate your mind.

The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley (2019)

The documentary The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley (2019) offers an in-depth look into the rise and fall of the now-notorious company, Theranos. Founded by Elizabeth Holmes, Theranos claimed to have developed a revolutionary blood-testing device that could diagnose numerous medical conditions with just a tiny droplet of blood.

This documentary dives into the early days of Theranos, the hype surrounding the company's purported breakthroughs, and the eventual unraveling of the company's facade. The film uncovers how the overconfident founder, Elizabeth Holmes, misled investors, patients, and even her employees about the capabilities of the blood-testing technology.

The investigative approach of the documentary reveals the dark side of ambition and the consequences of pursuing success without regard for the ethical ramifications. With a running time of just under two hours, the viewer is taken on a captivating journey that explores how a well-intentioned vision quickly turned into a house of cards built on deception and untruths.

In addition to chronicling the downfall of Theranos, The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley (2019) also highlights the broader implications and challenges faced by young technology companies in the hypercompetitive world of Silicon Valley. The documentary serves as an important reminder that not all innovations live up to their promises and underscores the importance of strict oversight and due diligence in an age when technology has the power to shape our lives in profound ways.

Catching the Sun (2015)

Catching the Sun is a documentary film released in 2015 that highlights the global race to lead the clean energy revolution. Directed by Shalini Kantayya, it delves into the rapidly growing solar industry and its potential to create jobs while addressing climate change.

The film follows the stories of people from different walks of life, such as a solar entrepreneur in China, a Silicon Valley start-up founder, and a job-seeker in the United States. Through these narratives, Catching the Sun demonstrates how the solar industry can serve as a source of hope and opportunities for people across the globe.

Catching the Sun also examines the significant role governments play in supporting the growth of renewable energy. It showcases the challenges faced by countries making strides towards a sustainable future. The film raises important questions regarding investment in renewable energy technologies while highlighting the economic benefits of transitioning to clean energy sources.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this documentary provides an engaging and informative look into the solar industry's potential to generate a brighter future. Catching the Sun is a must-watch for anyone interested in renewable energy, the environment, and sustainable development.

Inside Bill's Brain (2019)

Inside Bill's Brain, a documentary series released in 2019, offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the world's most successful entrepreneurs and philanthropists, Bill Gates. The series has captivated viewers, providing valuable insights into Gates's thought process, motivations, and crucial moments in his career.

The series delves into Gates's upbringing and early years, exploring how his experiences and education laid the foundation for his future success. It further dives into the formation of Microsoft and the company's meteoric rise, shedding light on Gates’s challenges and triumphs as a pioneering leader in the technology industry.

Inside Bill's Brain also highlights Gates's philanthropic endeavors, focusing on the transformative work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Through interviews and real-life examples, viewers get a firsthand look at the impact of the foundation's work in areas such as global health, education, and poverty alleviation.

The documentary's well-rounded portrayal of Bill Gates's life, from his business ventures to his philanthropic commitments, makes it an essential watch for anyone interested in better understanding the mind of this visionary entrepreneur.

Steve Jobs: The Man in the Machine (2015)

This compelling documentary dives deep into the life and legacy of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. Focusing on his personal life, professional journey, and impact in the tech industry, Steve Jobs: The Man in the Machine (2015) offers viewers an intimate look into the enigmatic entrepreneur's reality.

The film has a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes, presenting a comprehensive account of Jobs' life and his unique approach to innovation. Throughout the documentary, interviews with former colleagues, friends, and associates paint a multifaceted picture of the man who revolutionized technology use.

Notable for its neutral tone, the film sheds light on the positive and negative aspects of Jobs' personality and leadership style. His relentless pursuit of perfection and his unwavering passion for his craft are juxtaposed against his often volatile and demanding temperament.

In conclusion, "Steve Jobs: The Man in the Machine" is an informative, well-executed documentary that delves deep into the life and character of a visionary who forever changed the tech landscape.

Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005)

The documentary Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005) provides an in-depth look at the infamous Enron Corporation, which was once the seventh-largest company in the United States. This film is an excellent resource for understanding the rise and fall of a corporate giant and the intersection of business and ethics.

The documentary explores the inner workings of Enron, focusing on the key players responsible for the company's collapse. Throughout the film, viewers gain insights into the culture of greed, deception, and lack of accountability that ultimately led to Enron's bankruptcy and demise.

Some memorable moments in Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room involve interviews with former employees and executives, revealing their perspectives on the company's culture and decision-making processes. These accounts provide a humanizing element to the narrative and emphasize the impact of Enron's downfall on its employees and the general public.

By examining the company's business practices and culture, Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room raises critical questions about corporate ethics, leadership, and accountability in the modern world. The documentary's balanced, neutral, and clear presentation makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the business world and learning from history's mistakes.

Startup.com (2001)

The documentary Startup.com (2001) serves as an insightful look into the world of business and entrepreneurship. With a runtime of 1h 47m, this film captures the essence and challenges faced by startups in the early 2000s.

The documentary follows the journey of two friends as they venture into the business world to create a successful internet company. Through their experiences, the audience learns about the risks, rewards, and complexities of starting a business from scratch. The film demonstrates how passion and determination can drive entrepreneurs to overcome numerous obstacles.

In addition to showcasing the personal struggles of its protagonists, Startup.com offers a glimpse into the early Internet era and the tech bubble that surrounded it. As a result, the documentary serves as a valuable historical account of a significant period in the world of business. This film is a must-watch for entrepreneurs and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of the startup ecosystem.

Overall, Startup.com provides a captivating and informative viewing experience, making it one of the best documentaries available on business and entrepreneurship.

Netflix vs. the World (2019)

Netflix vs. the World is a compelling documentary that takes an in-depth look into the rise of the streaming giant Netflix and its impact on the entertainment industry. The film delves into the company's history, business strategies, and its battle with competitors.

The documentary explores the humble beginnings of Netflix, starting in the late 90s as a DVD rental service. It gives insight into the innovative decisions made by the company's founders and their vision for revolutionizing how people consume media. Through interviews and in-depth analysis, the film highlights the various turning points in Netflix's journey to becoming the global streaming powerhouse it is today.

As the story unfolds, the documentary examines the significant partnerships and acquisitions that have played a key role in Netflix's meteoric rise in the entertainment industry. It discusses the early adoption of streaming technology, allowing the company to promptly recognize its potential and differentiate itself from traditional cable providers.

Additionally, Netflix vs. the World features interviews with experts, celebrities, and key players in the industry, giving viewers firsthand knowledge of the impact Netflix has had on modern media consumption. Not only does the documentary focus on the company's strategic moves, but it also discusses the challenges they faced and the failures and setbacks that came along the way.

In conclusion, Netflix vs. the World offers an informative and engaging look at the company's incredible journey and the transformation it has brought to the entertainment industry.

General Magic (2018)

General Magic (2018) is a captivating documentary that provides an insightful look into the rise and fall of the technology company General Magic. The film covers the company's ambitious mission to develop a handheld communication device ahead of its time.

The story begins with the company's founding in 1990 by a group of visionaries who had previously worked together at Apple. These pioneers envisioned a world where people could communicate seamlessly through a personal device, much like the smartphones that are prevalent today.

Throughout the documentary, viewers get an in-depth look at General Magic’s challenges during its journey. The team's talented engineers and designers struggled to create a product that would meet both their technical expectations and the needs of their target audience. As a result, they faced numerous setbacks and difficulties along the way.

Despite the company’s eventual failure, the documentary highlights General Magic’s powerful impact on the tech industry. Many of its original team members went on to play pivotal roles in the development of future technologies, with some even joining the giants of Silicon Valley.

Overall, General Magic (2018) serves as an inspirational and informative window into entrepreneurship and innovation, showcasing the trials and triumphs of those who dared to change the course of technology.

Something Ventured (2011)

Something Ventured is a 2011 documentary dives into venture capitalism and its influence on the growth of technology. The film showcases the risk-taking, innovation, and achievements that venture capitalists and entrepreneurs have brought to the business landscape.

The documentary features interviews with prominent venture capitalists who recount the early days of Silicon Valley and the emergence of technology companies such as Apple, Intel, and Cisco. These interviews provide valuable insights into the mindset of these investors and their decision-making processes, which have resulted in the growth of some of the most successful companies in the world.

In addition to offering a behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes investments, Something Ventured highlights the importance of mentorship and collaboration in business. Through the stories of these venture capitalists, the film underscores the impact their partnerships with entrepreneurs have had on the overall success of their investments.

This documentary is a concise and engaging exploration of venture capitalism, providing viewers with a better understanding of the high-stakes decisions that have shaped some of the most influential companies in history.

American Factory (2019)

American Factory (2019) is a compelling documentary that sheds light on the complex dynamics of business and labor in the current global economy. The film explores the reopening of a former General Motors plant in Dayton, Ohio, by a Chinese billionaire and the cultural and labor issues that arise during the transition.

In this gripping story, the documentary highlights the contrasting labor practices and challenges Chinese and American workers face in the reinvigorated factory. The film underlines these disparities and emphasizes the need for understanding and cooperation between the two cultures to find common ground.

As the documentary progresses, tensions unfold, revealing deep-rooted issues impacting the American labor force and the expectations set by Chinese management. By thoughtfully presenting these various challenges, the film provides a nuanced insight into the evolving landscape of the global workforce.

In conclusion, American Factory is a well-researched and profound exploration of international business, showcasing the intricate dynamics of producing goods in a constantly evolving and interconnected world.

Betting on Zero (2016)

Betting on Zero is a compelling documentary that delves into business and finance. Released in 2016, this film closely examines the controversial battle between billionaire investor Bill Ackman and the global nutritional company Herbalife. This documentary has garnered significant interest among viewers interested in understanding the intricacies of high-stakes business dealings.

The documentary presents viewers with a detailed account of Ackman's short-selling crusade against Herbalife. The film demonstrates how the billionaire investor places a billion-dollar bet on the company's collapse while accusing it of running a pyramid scheme. Through interviews with former Herbalife distributors and examining the company's direct-selling business model, the documentary unravels the complexities of Herbalife's operations.

Directed by Ted Braun, Betting on Zero adeptly investigates the broader implications of this financial battle on the lives of everyday people. Exploring themes such as corporate governance, regulation, and social responsibility, the documentary sheds light on the impact of business practices on society.

In summary, Betting on Zero is an insightful documentary that delves deep into business, finance, and morality. By presenting the perspectives of various stakeholders, the film provides a fascinating examination of the intersection of wealth, power, and ethics in the modern business landscape.

Conclusion

The business world offers an array of captivating stories and lessons from which enthusiasts and professionals can learn and draw inspiration. Business documentaries provide insights into successful entrepreneurs' minds, the rise and fall of iconic companies, and the evolution of industries.

One notable aspect of these documentaries is their ability to shed light on the inner workings of businesses, enabling viewers to understand the complexities and challenges faced in competitive markets. By delving into the successes and failures of notable companies, these films offer significant educational value to viewers.

In addition, business documentaries often tackle pressing social, ethical, and environmental issues related to business operations. These themes pique viewers’ interest and spark discussions regarding the roles and responsibilities of businesses in society.

In conclusion, business documentaries have become vital for viewers to gain better insight and understanding of business. These films provide many learning opportunities for established veterans and industry newcomers, promoting essential conversations about business ethics and social responsibility.

Further watching:

Best Entrepreneurship Movies on Netflix

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Habiba Abdou
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