"The Big Short," directed by Adam McKay, is a biographical comedy-drama that takes a hard look at the 2008 financial crisis. The film is based on the 2010 book by Michael Lewis and stars a stellar ensemble cast, including Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt. The movie dissects the subprime mortgage crisis and the financial meltdown, explaining complex financial instruments and practices in an accessible manner. While the subject matter is grim, the film uses humor, fourth-wall breaks, and celebrity cameos to keep the audience engaged.
Synopsis
The movie revolves around the lives of several finance professionals who predicted the collapse of the housing market and bet against the American economy. These include Dr. Michael Burry (Christian Bale), Mark Baum (Steve Carell), and Jared Vennett (Ryan Gosling). These men take advantage of financial derivatives to "short" the housing market, facing ridicule and disbelief from their peers—until they are proven right.
Awards and Acclaim
"The Big Short" was a critical and commercial success, garnering five Academy Award nominations and winning the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film was praised for its storytelling, performances, and its innovative way of explaining intricate financial concepts.
Social Relevance
Besides its entertainment value, the film has educational merit. It breaks down complicated economic phenomena into digestible parts, educating the audience about a crisis that impacted millions worldwide. It has been used in economics and finance courses and has inspired countless discussions about corporate greed, market failures, and regulatory oversight.
Where to Watch: A Country-by-Country Breakdown
United States
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Streaming: Available on Netflix and Netflix basic with Ads.
- Buying: You can buy it on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Redbox, DIRECTV, and AMC on Demand.
Australia
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Streaming: Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix basic with Ads, and Disney Plus.
- Buying: Options include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Telstra TV, and Fetch TV.
United Kingdom
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
- Streaming: You can stream it on Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, MUBI, and MUBI Amazon Channel.
- Buying: The film is available for purchase on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Rakuten TV.
Germany
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
- Streaming: Available on MagentaTV, ArthouseCNMA, and Arthouse CNMA Amazon Channel.
- Buying: Platforms include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, Chili, and Microsoft Store.
Brazil
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Streaming: You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, HBO Max, and Netflix basic with Ads.
- Buying: It is available on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, and Amazon Video.
Spain
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Streaming: Options include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, Movistar Plus, and Netflix basic with Ads.
- Buying: You can buy it on Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, and Amazon Video.
France
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Streaming: Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, MUBI, and MUBI Amazon Channel.
- Buying: Platforms include Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Universcine, and Amazon Video.
Canada
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Streaming: You can stream it on Netflix, Paramount Plus, Paramount+ Amazon Channel, and Netflix basic with Ads.
- Buying: Available on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Amazon Video.
"The Big Short" serves as an entertaining yet cautionary tale that delves into the complexities of the financial market. Whether you're interested in economics, enjoy character-driven narratives, or are just looking for a well-crafted film, it's worth a watch. With its availability on numerous platforms across various countries, there's no reason not to dive into this eye-opening portrayal of one of the most significant economic crises of the 21st century.