- Photo:
- Warner Bros. Pictures/Crazy Rich Asians, Warner Bros. Pictures/The Great Gatsby
There's something undeniably captivating about watching the opulent lives of the affluent unfold on screen, especially when it involves them opening their wallets wide. There's plenty that money can buy, and the best movies with rich people spending big offer a tantalizing glimpse into what life could be like if money were no object. From lavish parties on yachts to extravagant shopping sprees in the world's fashion capitals, these famous films transport us into a crazy new world where the champagne never stops flowing, the bank balance never dwindles, and being a millionaire is the minimum standard.
Yet, it’s not just the splurging that attracts us but the intricate stories these characters navigate. The best movies about rich people, their aesthetic, or those becoming wealthy delve deep into the complexities that come with great wealth and the luxury lifestyle of a filthy rich billionaire, while exploring themes of love, betrayal, ambition, and isolation. These narratives remind us that beneath the glitzy surface, the human experience remains universal, touching on desires and challenges that resonate with everyone — poor or upper class.
These movies fall into a number of genres, offering romance, drama, suspense, comedy — the list goes on, as being insanely wealthy can be a mixed bag. Some of these movies follow celebrities, those who were born broke and built their wealth, and others who conned their way to success. While many of these flicks are works of fiction, they give us a good idea of what high class life looks like after getting rich, how most folks may behave or flaunt their wealth, and how millionaires and billionaires get the most out of the money they've spent.
Compiled with careful consideration, this list marries the expertise of movie connoisseurs with the enthusiasm of film buffs who’ve cast their votes, ensuring we bring you the crème de la crème of popular cinema featuring the lavish lifestyles of the rich. Sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the extravagant, often complicated worlds of the wealthiest characters to grace the big screen.
- 1
In this thrilling tale of excess and corruption, Leonardo DiCaprio stars as Jordan Belfort, a young stockbroker who quickly rises to wealth and power by defrauding investors out of millions. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film provides an in-depth look at the lavish lifestyles of Wall Street's elite while exploring themes of greed and ambition. With its high-powered performances and captivating story, this movie is an unapologetic glimpse into the world of the ultra-wealthy.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Martin Scorsese
- 2
Based on the bestselling novel by Kevin Kwan, this romantic comedy follows Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) as she accompanies her boyfriend Nick Young (Henry Golding) to his best friend's wedding in Singapore, only to discover that he comes from one of Asia's wealthiest families. Through colorful cinematography and a star-studded ensemble cast, director Jon M. Chu captures the opulent world of Asia's richest socialites while examining themes of identity and cultural differences.
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Jon M. Chu
- 1To All the Boys I've Loved Before20 Votes
- 2My Big Fat Greek Wedding18 Votes
- 3Always Be My Maybe6 Votes
- 3
Adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel, this visually stunning drama showcases the extravagant lifestyle of Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio) during the 1920s Jazz Age. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, the film delves into themes such as love, obsession, and social status through its beautifully crafted visuals and powerful performances from leading actors such as Carey Mulligan and Tobey Maguire.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Baz Luhrmann
- 4
Christian Bale delivers a chilling performance as Patrick Bateman in this dark psychological thriller directed by Mary Harron. Set in New York City during the 1980s financial boom, the film explores Bateman's double life as a wealthy investment banker by day and psychopathic murderer by night. With its sharp critique on materialism and superficiality among Manhattan's elite, American Psycho offers a disturbing glimpse into the darker side of wealth and success.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Mary Harron
- 5
In this gripping gangster saga directed by Martin Scorsese, viewers are taken on a wild ride through the lives of three close-knit mobsters played by Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci. Exploring themes such as loyalty, ambition, and betrayal among New York City's criminal elite in the 1960s and 1970s, Goodfellas provides an inside look at both the extravagant lifestyles enjoyed by these mobsters and their inevitable downfall.
- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Martin Scorsese
- 1Casino102 Votes
- 2The Godfather107 Votes
- 3The Sopranos92 Votes
- 6
This iconic crime drama directed by Brian De Palma features Al Pacino's unforgettable performance as Tony Montana, an ambitious Cuban immigrant who builds a drug empire in Miami during the 1980s. Showcasing the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by Montana and his associates while illustrating the dangers of greed and excess, Scarface remains a classic portrayal of wealth and power gone awry.
- Released: 1983
- Directed by: Brian De Palma
- 1The Departed26 Votes
- 2Goodfellas42 Votes
- 3Carlito's Way32 Votes
