Wall Street (1987) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Wall Street (1987), directed by Oliver Stone, is a classic drama that delves into the high-stakes world of finance and corporate greed. Starring Michael Douglas, Charlie Sheen, and Daryl Hannah, the film remains a seminal exploration of the ethical and personal costs associated with the pursuit of wealth.
Plot Overview: The Price of Success
The film centers on Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen), a young and ambitious stockbroker who is eager to make a name for himself in the competitive world of Wall Street. He becomes involved with the powerful and unscrupulous corporate raider Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas), who is known for his ruthless approach to business.
Gekko’s famous motto, “Greed is good,” encapsulates his philosophy of maximizing profit regardless of the ethical implications. Bud Fox becomes Gekko’s protégé, and as he ascends in the financial world, he finds himself increasingly entangled in illegal and morally questionable activities.
The film explores the personal and professional consequences of Bud’s decisions as he confronts the impact of his actions on his relationships, his integrity, and his future.
Performances: Iconic and Powerful
Michael Douglas delivers a standout performance as Gordon Gekko, earning critical acclaim for his portrayal of the charismatic and morally ambiguous corporate tycoon. Douglas’s performance captures Gekko’s magnetic personality and the corrupting influence of power and wealth. His portrayal of Gekko is widely regarded as one of his best roles and has become iconic in popular culture.
Charlie Sheen plays Bud Fox, the ambitious young broker who is drawn into Gekko’s world. Sheen’s performance effectively conveys Bud’s initial naivety, his rising ambition, and his eventual moral crisis. The character’s journey from a hopeful young professional to a disillusioned individual highlights the film’s exploration of ethical dilemmas in the business world.
Daryl Hannah rounds out the main cast as Darien Taylor, Bud’s love interest and Gekko’s former girlfriend. Hannah’s performance adds emotional depth to the narrative, as Darien’s relationship with Bud and Gekko reflects the personal stakes involved in the high-stakes financial world.
Direction and Cinematography: A Glimpse into Wall Street
Oliver Stone directs Wall Street with a keen focus on the excesses and ethical lapses of the financial industry. His direction highlights the contrasts between the glamorous facade of Wall Street and the underlying moral corruption that drives the characters’ actions.
The cinematography by Robert Richardson captures the bustling energy and opulence of Wall Street, emphasizing the film’s themes of greed and excess. The visual style of the film reinforces its critique of the financial industry and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Themes: Greed, Corruption, and Redemption
Wall Street explores several central themes:
- Greed and Corruption: The film critiques the culture of greed and corruption prevalent in the financial industry. Gordon Gekko’s mantra, “Greed is good,” serves as a central theme, reflecting the moral compromises and ethical lapses that accompany the pursuit of wealth.
- The Cost of Ambition: The narrative examines the personal and professional costs of unchecked ambition. Bud Fox’s journey highlights the sacrifices he makes and the consequences he faces as he becomes entangled in Gekko’s unethical practices.
- Redemption and Moral Reckoning: The film explores the possibility of redemption and the moral reckoning faced by characters as they confront the impact of their actions. Bud Fox’s eventual realization and efforts to make amends reflect the film’s exploration of personal integrity and accountability.
Reception and Legacy: A Timeless Critique
Wall Street received critical acclaim for its incisive commentary on the financial industry and its strong performances. The film’s portrayal of corporate greed and ethical dilemmas resonated with audiences and critics alike, establishing it as a seminal work in the genre.
The film won Michael Douglas the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Gordon Gekko, further cementing the film’s place in cinematic history. Wall Street remains relevant for its exploration of themes that continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about finance and ethics.
Where to Watch Wall Street Online in 2024
For those interested in watching Wall Street (1987), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming; check for availability in your region.
- Hulu: Available for streaming; check for availability in your region.
2. Digital Rental or Purchase
- iTunes/Apple TV: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Rent or buy in high definition.
3. DVD/Blu-ray
Wall Street is available on DVD and Blu-ray, often including special features such as behind-the-scenes content, interviews with the cast and crew, and commentary tracks.
Conclusion
Wall Street (1987) is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a critical look at the world of finance and the consequences of greed. Directed by Oliver Stone and featuring standout performances by Michael Douglas and Charlie Sheen, the film remains a relevant and impactful exploration of ambition, corruption, and redemption. Its incisive commentary and engaging narrative make it a must-watch for fans of drama and those interested in the ethical complexities of the financial industry.
