A superb, low-key dramatisation of the initial stages of the sub-prime & financial market meltdowns. This film doesn't rely on overly-theatrical meltdowns and explosive, shouty alpha-male showdowns to have impact, rather it relies on a superb cast, great dialogue and excellent performances by a totally on-form ensemble cast. Stand-out performance from Zachary Quinto who's shock/horror when he realises what's unfolding is a definite watch/rewind/watch moment. Paul Bettany is great as the 'guy who is great at his job, but not quite great enough' as we see in his thouroughly embittered reply 'it happens..... but not to me' line when referring to the senior executives. Simon Baker and Stanley Tucci give their usual excellent performances in.their own inimitable styles, Baker's incomprehension of events superbly demonstrated by him asking the time, muttering ' me', then a few seconds later, asking the time, muttering 'f me'..... etc. This film proceeds at a modest pace, allowing events to unfold naturally, but the climax, the dramatic 'fire sale' to me highlights why so many hold investment banking in contempt (although this is perfectly balanced by Bettany's 'hypocracy' rant earlier in the film). Overall, very watchable.

Not a money guy myself, I was initially jittery about watching this one fearing difficulty understanding it. However, quite pleasantly the movie is built so smoothly and without much Wall Street sort of jargon, it was pretty easy watch.

And gladly, it made me have a peak show to those institutions who control our financial lives throughout. The casts, the acting are top notch. Only the dialogs were enough to build, mount and keep the tension level high. Go for it.

I'll have to start by saying this film will not be for everyone. This film lacks the needed tension for a Friday film night for example, but this film is heavily relatable and the acting and characters are superb and carry this film.

So why did i find this interesting? The characters. What this film is illustrating is the "behind the scenes" of a giant corporation and how they deal with a giant crisis. The characters that stood out for me were Penn Badgeley, Paul Bettany and Kevin Spacey. To start they were acted superbly well, but I really did relate to them, Penn in particular, and it had me absolutely hooked in.

It's a weird review to write, because I'd normally talk about the plot seen as though that's the main thing you notice about a film when you watch it and it makes or breaks any movie. This is just a little different, because as mentioned prior this film lacks a certain tension needed. The film itself is really smartly written, but it needed a little more to it, to entice you in more.

I personally enjoyed it, but I will guarantee people will hate it due to the lack of things going on. But if you really focus on the characters and their characteristics, it's a really enjoyable and relatable watch. 7/10 from me.