The MBA programs are infamous for being super hectic. Students are often advised to refrain from fun and recreational activities. But, don’t do this mistake during your MBA. MBA programs are meant for the holistic growth of an individual. Also, having fun is a part of it. Watching movies is a great way to decompress from your daily grind and rejuvenate yourself. But it is often a misconception that movies are all about relaxation and fun. On the contrary, movies can be a great way of learnings as well. So, in this post, we are going to mention some of the best movies for MBA students and aspirants to watch and learn some important concepts.
Recently, movies are being taken up as an official part of the curriculum for various business courses. Movies can teach you the most difficult and complex concepts in a very practical and lucid manner. Therefore, through these movies, you will learn about real-world implications of concepts like ethics, planning, self-indulgence, stress management, group management, rivalry, greed, balance, instincts, and more. You may have watched many of these movies. But you can always watch them once again from a different perspective and objective and learn from them. Hope you enjoy it.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
This is a classic movie to understand the importance of dedication and perseverance in one’s life. The movie follows the struggles of Chris Gardner as a homeless individual. Along with his 5-year-old son, the protagonist struggles to find work, food, and shelter. Sometimes life can be challenging. Also, it can throw multiple challenges at you. Throughout your personal and professional life, you will be facing challenges day in and day out. But, through dedication, hard work, and perseverance, all challenges can be overcome. Just like Chris Gardner eventually got a job and became a successful entrepreneur, you can also. So, watch this movie and understand this important life lesson.
Guru (2007)
One of the must-watch movies in Bollywood. This Indian drama film portrays the journey of Gurukant Desai, ‘Guru’ who achieves his dream of making it big. The film is loosely based on the life of Dhirubhai Ambani, one of the most famous Indian industrialists. This movie conveys the importance of desire for ambition and success. The dilemma faced by every individual regarding corruption & lies and hard work and determination for achieving success is beautifully portrayed in this movie. So, for all budding entrepreneurs, this is a must-watch. You will get to know the struggles faced by every entrepreneur in India.
Wall Street (1987)
This is one of the most classic movies of all time regarding the infamous world of stockbroking. Depicting the life of a young and impatient stockbroker, the movie shows the power and effect of money on an individual. Post-MBA, many of you will be working in the fields of finance. Big shots will be called and huge sums of money will be minted. But, greed should never be at the forefront of your decisions. Watch this movie if you are fascinated with the world of stock brokers and understand the importance of ethics, discipline, and principles in one’s professional life.
Office Space (1999)
Considered a cult classic, this comedy movie is based on a fictional software company office. The movie provides many satirical insights into everyday life within a corporate office. The film follows the monotonous routine of an employee and his friends, bosses, and co-workers. It is a case study of bad management. Even though technology and management have evolved over the years, this film still provides many comical and useful insights into the experiences we encounter in our working lives. So, as a budding corporate worker, this movie is a must-watch for all MBA students and aspirants.
Citizen Kane (1941)
The oldest on this list and probably the best one, this is an all-time classic movie. This movie will teach you the most important lessons you should have as an MBA student. This is the story of a newspaper tycoon and his struggles with his morals to achieve success in his life. Success is something we all desire. It can be on a personal level or in a professional space. But do means matter more than ends or is it the opposite? This movie can give you valuable insights into this particular dilemma. Do compromising your morals over results yield anything good? Maybe or maybe not. So, watch this movie to understand the anatomy of success.
The Godfather Trilogy (1972-1990)
You must be wondering why a movie on mobsters, drugs, murder, and vengeance is there on this list? But, try to understand the connection between running cartels and companies? Are they the same on a fundamental level?
Yes, both needs strong leadership and efficient planning. Expanding and operating a cartel and company needs trustworthy contacts and delegation of powers. This movie will make you understand this important connection. Also, you will learn the importance of relations and networks for conducting business. Thus, ignoring the illegal elements of this movie, watch this one of the best movies for MBA to learn important business lessons.
12 Angry Men (1957)
Sooner or later, you will be sitting in a meeting with a group of people and take important decisions. Understanding group behavior in an organization is a very crucial skill for a business student. Typical corporate meetings and boardrooms are full of conflicts, consensus building, and power politics. This movie, a beautiful study on group behavior is a must-watch for all business students to reach a group decision. Understanding every individual thought process and questioning biases are some of the major takeaways from this movie. So, just go and watch this movie as soon as possible.
Captain Phillips (2013)
Crisis and emergencies are going to be a part and parcel of your corporate life. True leadership skills are highlighted during a time of crisis. This movie depicts the story of a ship’s captain, during a hijacking attempt from pirates. Decision-making in times of crisis is a rare ability. Many famous leaders and managers lack this ability. So, watch this one of the best movies for MBA to understand the importance of instincts, planning, implementation, crisis management, and team unity. Always remember, leaders, are forged in times of crisis.
Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year (2009)
Last, but not least on our list is this beloved Bollywood movie. It is the story of a B.Com graduate, who wants to be a salesman. After working as a salesman for a computer hardware company, he realizes the importance of principles in business. Leveraging his hard work and honesty, he starts his own venture and soon overtakes his former company. Important concepts of honesty, loyalty, customer service, commitment, friendship, and branding are depicted in this movie. So, if you are a marketing or sales enthusiast, this is a must-watch for you. Understanding customers’ pain points and leveraging that opportunity for creating value is one of the key takeaways from this movie.
There are many more beautiful and lesson-worthy movies for MBA students and aspirants. Here are some noteworthy mentions to crave your inner movie hunger like Boiler Room, Lagaan, The Aviator, Social Network, Rocky, The Founder, Inside Job, Moneyball, Margin Call, The Big Short & Up in the Air.
The MBA journey is full of learnings, experiences, and adventures. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build your worth and network. So, try to make to most out of it and remember to relax in between. Watch these best movies for MBA and enjoy the learnings. All the best. Have fun – Purvesh
If you listen to podcasts, here are some recommendations of podcasts every MBA aspirants need to listen to :
For CAT preparation, find a list of recommended books for VARC section preparation here :
Also, find a list of recommended blogs and websites for VARC preparation for your CAT examination here:
Purvesh is a bibliophile currently pursuing MBA at IIT Madras
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