Movies have the power to entertain, inspire, and educate. They can provide valuable insights into various aspects of life, including business and management. For MBA aspirants, watching movies related to business, leadership, and entrepreneurship can offer a unique perspective and enhance their understanding of real-world scenarios.
In this blog, we have compiled a list of seven must-watch movies that every MBA aspirant should consider adding to their watchlist. These films entertain, provide valuable lessons, and stimulate critical thinking.
"The Social Network" (2010)
"The Social Network" is a gripping drama that explores the founding of Facebook by Mark Zuckerberg during his time at Harvard University. This film offers insights into entrepreneurship, innovation, and startup challenges. It provides a glimpse into the dynamics of a fast-growing business, highlighting the importance of perseverance, strategic thinking, and ethical decision-making.
"The Pursuit of Happyness" (2006)
Based on a true story, "The Pursuit of Happyness" follows the journey of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while pursuing a career in stockbroking. This movie portrays the power of resilience, determination, and following one's dreams. It showcases the importance of hard work, perseverance, and adaptability in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
"The Wolf of Wall Street" (2013)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, "The Wolf of Wall Street" is a dark comedy-drama that chronicles the rise and fall of stockbroker Jordan Belfort. This film offers a cautionary tale about greed, corruption, and the consequences of unethical business practices. It provides insights into finance, salesmanship, and the importance of maintaining integrity and ethical standards in business.
"Moneyball" (2011)
"Moneyball" is a sports drama that explores the unconventional methods employed by Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland Athletics baseball team. This movie highlights the power of data analytics, innovation, and the ability to challenge traditional norms. It emphasises the importance of leveraging data-driven insights to gain a competitive edge in business and make informed decisions.
"The Big Short" (2015)
"The Big Short" is a thought-provoking drama based on the events leading up to the 2008 financial crisis. This film delves into the complexities of the housing market, the subprime mortgage crisis, and the individuals who predicted the market's collapse. It provides valuable lessons about risk management, financial instruments, and the consequences of unchecked greed and systemic failures.
"The Intern" (2015)
"The Intern" is a heartwarming comedy-drama that follows the story of a 70-year-old widower who becomes an intern at an online fashion retailer. This film explores the themes of intergenerational collaboration, leadership, and work-life balance. It showcases the importance of mentorship, embracing change, and fostering a supportive work environment.
"Startup.com" (2001)
"Startup.com" is a documentary that provides an inside look into the rise and fall of an internet startup during the dot-com bubble. This film offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, team dynamics, and the challenges startups face in a rapidly changing market. It highlights the importance of effective leadership, strategic planning, and adaptability in navigating the turbulent waters of entrepreneurship.
These seven movies offer diverse perspectives and lessons relevant to MBA aspirants. From the intricacies of entrepreneurship to the ethical considerations of business, each film provides valuable insights and thought-provoking narratives. By watching these movies, MBA aspirants can broaden their understanding of business dynamics, leadership qualities, and the real-world challenges organisations face.
10 Ways movies can inspire an MBA Aspirant
Showcasing Real-World Business Scenarios
Movies often portray real-world business scenarios, allowing MBA aspirants to observe decision-making, leadership, and strategy complexities. By watching characters navigate challenging business situations, students can gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics they may encounter in their careers.
Demonstrating Leadership Styles
Movies present a diverse range of leadership styles through their characters. From charismatic and visionary leaders to those who lead by example, each film offers unique perspectives on being an effective leader. MBA aspirants can analyse these leadership styles and draw inspiration for their leadership development.
Portraying Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Many movies explore the journey of entrepreneurs and the challenges they face in building successful businesses. These stories can inspire MBA aspirants to think creatively, take risks, and pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations. Movies can highlight the importance of innovation, resilience, and adaptability in business.
Addressing Ethical Dilemmas
Ethical dilemmas are often central to movie narratives. As MBA aspirants, it is crucial to develop a solid ethical foundation. Movies can present complex moral choices and dilemmas, encouraging students to reflect on their values and decision-making processes.
Encouraging Strategic Thinking
Movies can provide examples of strategic thinking and planning. As MBA aspirants, developing strategic understanding is essential. By analysing the choices made by characters in the film, students can learn how to assess risks, identify opportunities, and develop effective strategies to achieve business objectives.
Promoting Teamwork and Collaboration
Collaboration and teamwork are vital in the business world. Movies often depict characters working together to overcome challenges and achieve common goals. MBA aspirants can observe how effective teamwork can lead to success and learn valuable communication, trust, and synergy lessons.
Inspiring Resilience and Perseverance
Business success often requires resilience and perseverance in the face of obstacles. Movies can inspire MBA aspirants by showcasing characters who overcome adversity, bounce back from failure, and maintain unwavering determination. These stories can instil a sense of resilience and motivate students to persist in facing challenges.
Highlighting Global Business Perspectives
Movies provide glimpses into different cultures, societies, and business environments worldwide. They offer MBA aspirants a broader perspective on global business practices, challenges, and opportunities. By exploring these diverse perspectives, students can develop a more comprehensive understanding of the worldwide business landscape.
Presenting Role Models
Movies often present compelling characters who serve as role models for MBA aspirants. Whether it's a booming business tycoon, an innovative entrepreneur, or a visionary leader, these characters can inspire students to aspire to greatness and emulate the qualities that contribute to their success.
An MBA has unlimited career choices.
Sparking Critical Thinking and Discussion
Movies can be catalysts for critical thinking and lively discussions. MBA aspirants can analyse the themes, messages, and underlying concepts presented in movies, fostering intellectual engagement and encouraging the exploration of different perspectives. These discussions can enhance learning and broaden students' horizons.
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Talk to an ExpertFAQs
Why should I pursue an MBA?
An MBA can open doors to lucrative career prospects, enhance leadership abilities, expand professional networks, and provide a solid foundation in business fundamentals. It can also help individuals transition into new industries or advance in their current field.
Is an MBA necessary for a successful career?
While an MBA is not essential for every career path, it can significantly boost career prospects, particularly in consulting, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. It offers a competitive edge and provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles.
What are the specialisation options in an MBA program?
MBA programs offer various specialisation options, including finance, marketing, operations management, entrepreneurship, human resources, etc. Students can choose a specialisation based on their interests and career goals.
What are the prerequisites for pursuing an MBA?
Prerequisites for MBA programs can vary, but most require a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Some programs may also consider work experience, GMAT/GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
What career opportunities are available after completing an MBA?
MBA graduates can pursue diverse career paths across industries. Some typical job roles include management consultant, financial analyst, marketing manager, operations manager, business development executive, and entrepreneur.
Can I pursue an MBA without a business background?
Yes, many MBA programs accept candidates from diverse academic backgrounds. While a business-related undergraduate degree may provide some foundational knowledge, it is only sometimes a prerequisite. MBA programs often offer courses that cover fundamental business concepts for students who have a business background.
What is the average duration of an MBA program?
The average duration of a full-time MBA program is typically two years. However, there are also part-time, executive, and accelerated programs that vary in length. Part-time and executive programs cater to working professionals who prefer a more flexible schedule.
What is the return on investment (ROI) of an MBA?
The ROI of an MBA can vary depending on factors such as the reputation of the business school, career trajectory, industry, and individual circumstances. On average, MBA graduates experience higher earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
