The Big Short is a film focused on the financial crisis that happened in the United States in the 2000s. The storyline revolves around the US housing market, which was booming in the 70s, providing a system that allows people to have a home by buying debt securities that contain mortgage payment. These securities were widely used by the people and became popular in the market.
In 2005, Michael Burry, a former neurologist turned hedge fund manager, found out that the number of homes mortgaged by people was not balanced with the risk they were taking. The banks were too focused on profits, disregarding the people’s financial capability to pay. Burry predicted that the economic crisis would occur in the second quarter of 2007 and insures the debt securities. Despite meeting oppositions from the bank employees, Burry stuck to his idea, paid $1.3 billion for the insurance, and ended up getting twice the profits when the economy collapsed.
The movie features a talented cast, including Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt who play different characters that had similar insights into the impending housing market collapse. All four individuals try to short the market and make money off the crisis. The movie shows how they worked hard to convince others, including the banks, of their prediction.
What followed was an economic crisis that has affected millions of people, with many losing their homes and jobs as a result. The Big Short cleverly portrays the complex financial system in America and how it has a significant impact on people’s livelihood.
The movie is based on “The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine,” a book by Michael Lewis. Director Adam McKay did a great job of bringing this book to life on the screen, making it easily understandable to the audience. The film provides a well-balanced mix of humor and seriousness, and it is enjoyable to watch despite the unsettling subject matter.
One of the film’s unique features is its use of celebrities like Margot Robbie and Selena Gomez to explain complex financial terms. These unexpected, yet surprisingly effective educational moments make it easier for viewers to follow the story, even if they do not have a background in economics.
To conclude, The Big Short is a must-watch movie that provides an insightful and educational story about America’s financial history. It has an excellent cast, a well-balanced mixture of humor and seriousness, and a unique way of explaining complex financial terms. Despite the heartbreaking reality of the subject matter, it is an enjoyable cinematic experience that is both entertaining and educational.
