When you’re a busy entrepreneur, you might drive yourself to the point of exhaustion. A little downtime will restart your engines and restore your creativity to high gear. That doesn’t mean you have to binge on reality TV when you take time for some well-deserved R&R, though. This top 10 list of inspiring movies for entrepreneurs will help you refuel and learn business lessons, all while you kick back, relax and enjoy some popcorn.
1. Classic Entrepreneurial Movies: Wall Street
What will you do to get to the top? Sometimes, you encounter some devious characters on the highway to success. This film teaches the lesson that cheating your way to fame and fortune will only result in downfall — but regaining your sense of morality can bring some redemption.
2. The Secret
While this is a documentary of sorts, who wouldn’t want to get inspired by some of the leading philosophers and motivational speakers of our time? Follow a viewing with a guided meditation session on manifesting success.
3. The Social Network: Another of the Must-See Movies for Entrepreneurs
How did Facebook come to be? This Hollywood blockbuster explains how Mark Zuckerberg became one of the youngest billionaires ever. It also explores the legal and personal complications which often occur simultaneously with a meteoric rise to wealth.
4. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Even the littlest among us can perform feats that transform the world. The secret ingredients are friendship and faith in something bigger than yourself. If you can keep your eyes dry while listening to Sam’s speech to Frodo at the end of “The Two Towers,” you are a hardy soul indeed.
5. The Shawshank Redemption
If you think you are having a rough time getting your project off the ground, give thanks that at least you aren’t Andy Dufresne. However, he, the protagonist, triumphs against unbelievable odds. This one is one of the best movies for entrepreneurs because it teaches the lesson that you can’t cage the human spirit behind stone walls and bars.
6. Erin Brockovich
The most unexpected individuals can accomplish impressive feats, and they can do it all while taking no malarkey from anybody. The world needs people who are willing to stand up for what is right, even when it isn’t convenient or comfortable to do so. If you’re a tough-talking female business leader, you will cheer at Erin’s no-nonsense, take-no-prisoners approach.
7. More Movies for Entrepreneurs: Chocolat
It can be tough to survive as a female in a predominantly patriarchal culture. While Vianne’s chocolates contain magical ingredients, the real wonder appears when she gets narrow-minded villagers to question their beliefs. Sometimes, you need to shake things up to succeed in business, but the reward for taking the risk can be oh-so-sweet.
8. Steel Magnolias
Okay, female entrepreneurs — don’t let the menfolk know that many of your most inspiring conversations take place at the beauty salon. This film celebrates the power of friendship as well as the strength of women. The main characters remind you that you have a steel core that is enough to weather any storm, all while remaining very much a lady.
9. The Pursuit of Happyness
How far down can you fall without giving up? Persistence is one of the most critical components to success. Despite battling a failing marriage and homelessness, protagonist Chris Gardner never stops seeking a better life for himself and his son. When you see all that he struggles through, you’ll cheer at his sheer determination. It’s no wonder this one makes the top list of inspiring movies for entrepreneurs.
10. The Founder
How did McDonald’s come to be? While Ray Kroc is no saint, the film teaches many valuable business lessons. It shows you how to think big and sell your vision to create your empire. Considering the ubiquity of the golden arches, if anyone has the recipe for success, it’s probably this fast-food chain.
Watch These 10 Entrepreneurial Movies
Even hard-working entrepreneurs need occasional downtime to restore their spirits. If you are looking to get inspired while you relax, these 10 films fit the playbill. And if you’re looking for a laugh on the weekend, The Proposal is one to watch too.