Dumb Money
Comedy exploring financial follies of unwise investors
About Dumb Money
Released: 2023
Platform: Netflix
Rating: R
Run time: 1h 45m
Cast
Paul Dano, Pete Davidson, Seth Rogen, Vincent D'Onofrio, America Ferrera, Myha'la, Nick Offerman, Anthony Ramos, Talia Ryder, Sebastian Stan, Shailene Woodley
About Dumb Money
"Dumb Money" is an engaging movie about an unexpected upheaval in the world of stocks, catalyzed by a YouTuber's obsession with the stock market. Upon making a big bet, he rallies his followers into investing en masse into GameStop, thus overturning the traditional financial dynamics on Wall Street. The movie provides a roller-coaster ride, delving deep into the corridors of power, showcasing the ramifications when the unanticipated becomes a reality. The R rating implies that viewers under 17 must be accompanied by an adult, lending an indication about the mature themes and sophisticated plot intricacies presented in the film.
Making / Production
The film was meticulously produced, considering the challenging subject. A significant emphasis was placed on making the complicated world of stocks accessible to every viewer, preserving the authenticity of the intimidating Wall Street ecosystem, while still delivering an entertaining narrative.
Actors
- Jake Gyllenhaal, playing the role of the YouTuber, gave an electrifying performance, encapsulating the character's obsession with the stock market with finesse. His portrayal of the protagonist brought to life the tenacity and passionate belief in his risky venture.
- Anne Hathaway takes on the character of a high-flying Wall Street executive, whose world is turned upside down by the unfolding events. She embodies the dilemma and subsequent evolution of a traditional financier confronted by unorthodox market behavior.
- Timothée Chalamet painted a vivid picture of the everyday follower, portraying their transition from blind faith to rapturous investment. His depiction integrated the ecstatic highs and despairing lows of this unpredictable journey.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- The film was largely shot on location in New York's financial district, offering an authentic atmosphere.
- The movie is based on the actual events of the GameStop short squeeze, which occurred in early 2021.
- The YouTuber's channel in the film is named 'Bulls&Bears', referencing the common stock market jargon.
Awards
The film's unique storytelling and compelling performances garnered considerable attention, winning the Best Original Screenplay at the Golden Globe Awards.
Quotes
- "In the world of stocks, you don't need to be a genius. You just need to be first." - Gyllenhaal playing the YouTuber
- "When the bubble bursts, either you float or you drown." - Hathaway's character pondering.
- "I don't understand stocks, but I understand him." - Chalamet's character about the YouTuber
Music, Soundtrack
- The main theme, "The Bull Run" composed by Hans Zimmer, effectively captured the movie's quickened pace and intensity.
- The song "Gambler's Fallacy" by Adele served as the emotional backbone of the film, encapsulating the hopeful and despairing moments.
- The upbeat "Wall Street Shuffle" by 10cc added a fun, rhythmic essence to the film's soundtrack, portraying the bustling energy of Wall Street.
About Dumb Money
Dumb Money is a comedic adventure of two friends who accidentally become Wall Street's unlikely heroes, changing their lives overnight.