The Big Short
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: December 11, 2015
8.1
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 778 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
683
Mixed:
64
Negative:
31
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
jgzegerMar 24, 2016
This movie is nothing short of brilliant. I must confess that I understand the financial markets being a trader myself, so I have a first hand understanding of a world where the only thing that counts is profits. With that said I was in aweThis movie is nothing short of brilliant. I must confess that I understand the financial markets being a trader myself, so I have a first hand understanding of a world where the only thing that counts is profits. With that said I was in awe of the acting in this movie, notably Steve Carell and Christian Bale, the screenplay and the direction. It tells an important story and tells it well, with humor at times without which is would all have been too depressing.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
SchroederRockMar 5, 2016
The Big Short is an intelligent movie - popcorn poppers looking for a little thrill ride down Wall Street with an excellent cast are sure to be left in the dust. Wall Street is complex to the typical person, I followed it but only justThe Big Short is an intelligent movie - popcorn poppers looking for a little thrill ride down Wall Street with an excellent cast are sure to be left in the dust. Wall Street is complex to the typical person, I followed it but only just barely. Seeing several of the storylines that lead into one of the largest economical collapses of America is both incredible and worrisome. To see so many professionals injecting so much convolution into the properties market on the back-end really makes you wonder how we managed to go so long without having a collapse sooner. But this all happened and, in cases where applicable, the cast breaks that "fourth wall" to explain what's going on and if something absurd on screen actually happened (in most cases the answer is "yes this actually happened", or "we're lead to believe this happened"). Every actor in this movie turns in a solid performance, but I have to give a lot of credit to Steve Carrel for shining brightest in The Big Short. He delivers with an incredible amount of conviction, as if he were actually in charge of an investment firm that just discovered the bedrock of America's economy were about to collapse. It's all brilliant stuff, and the fact that it's true, or mostly-true, might make your jaw drop a little bit. If you're into the business/finance world, this will be even more enjoyable for you, since the terminology which is only explained in small summations will be received like this was all everyday English. If you can truly say to yourself "I have a hard time following complex movie plots", this will be a bit of an exercise. I highly recommend this movie, but there are going to be a small group of people that have it all go over their heads, and thus short this movie when it comes to their opinions/reviews. The Big Short is one of the better films I've watched in the past year.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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4
bamendolApr 3, 2016
This movie feels largely contrived. The jokes land flat. Fortunately it can stand as a watchable film because it is based on a compelling book and has a good cast.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
TheApplegnomeJan 13, 2016
An overly complex ride into the real truth of our globalized & capitalized world. ’The Big-falls just-Short’ behind from being a great true story -- with a clever and advanced plot, but too vaguely visualized characters is a fact. There’reAn overly complex ride into the real truth of our globalized & capitalized world. ’The Big-falls just-Short’ behind from being a great true story -- with a clever and advanced plot, but too vaguely visualized characters is a fact. There’re some great depth to the characters, but they never give any real excitement -- even though that there are some few, even smart, moments to them. Great acting and writing is a present aspect yes, and the vast ambitious story tries to simplify many definitions that’s too complex for the normal citizen to understand -- but mostly fail due to the lack of even more simplifications. This is a pure dialog-driven film, and it can be draggy. But it still does manage to bring many realistic facts to life, but ”the normal man isn’t knowledgeable enough” -- that’s the major flaw of this ’Parks and Recreation-ish’ direction flick.

Personal rating: 65/100
Critical rating: 72/100… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
AxeTJan 16, 2016
The reason to see this is the cast of leads who are all good in their individual quirky character ways as well as the irreverent comedy made out of the Wall Street meltdown in 2008. It takes chances using offbeat conventions that are nothingThe reason to see this is the cast of leads who are all good in their individual quirky character ways as well as the irreverent comedy made out of the Wall Street meltdown in 2008. It takes chances using offbeat conventions that are nothing new but unexpected for this subject. However it is horribly shot emulating a show like "The Office" and is fairly sloppily edited at least in the cutting sense. There is no reason ever to have that phony cinema vérité video look for a theatrical motion picture. It's an all too common dumb choice by filmmakers believing it makes it more real. Hey I'll watch "60 Minutes" if I want real!
Then again the director here has no sense of style, only a frat boy sense of humor. It's funny at times yeah and yet tackles the complex content surprisingly efficiently, and that comes close to overriding the annoyances. The Academy sheep didn't seem to mind them and nominated it best picture along with its slob director. Ironic since it's that very sheep like mentality that the film is critical of.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
sassymahOct 17, 2018
Bold, brilliant, intelligent, insightful, entertaining, and educational. Sharp writing and great acting from the entire cast. The film should be shown in all economics classes. It is a true modern masterpiece.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
EMGCMar 8, 2016
I was genuinely surprised at how much I enjoyed this. The director and writers did a great job keeping the pace of the film up, while still taking the time to break down important financial concepts.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
CineAutoctonoMar 10, 2016
"The Big Short" was an intelligent and exciting movie , because the banking language was reflected many times and hardly understand anything , but it was very good , the participation of Selena Gomez and Margot Robbie unexpected but great for"The Big Short" was an intelligent and exciting movie , because the banking language was reflected many times and hardly understand anything , but it was very good , the participation of Selena Gomez and Margot Robbie unexpected but great for that won an Oscar. very good cast, great script, a perfect film to the surface.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
johannaarMar 21, 2016
With amazing cast, true story spun in a bit of comic way. Keeps the viewer entertained and interested until the very end.

Although it reveals the corrupt and greed in the Wall Street, which makes you think. Haven't really gotten used toWith amazing cast, true story spun in a bit of comic way. Keeps the viewer entertained and interested until the very end.

Although it reveals the corrupt and greed in the Wall Street, which makes you think.

Haven't really gotten used to see Steve Carell in non comedy movie genre… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
NickGreefpoolApr 8, 2016
An amazing movie, the direction is brilliant, and Christian Bale's performance is outstanding. I think this movie is an example of how the way you tell a story is as important as the story itself.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
KevinChau5Apr 21, 2018
Underrated film ever seen! Awesome performances by Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale, Steve Carell and Brad Pitt! Would recommend it!
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
DianaMMay 18, 2018
The visualization of American economy.

Those who state that "The Big Short" is the movie for everyone are deeply mistaken because actually the film is sophisticated enough,complicated to understand.Especially,for people lack in analyticalThe visualization of American economy.

Those who state that "The Big Short" is the movie for everyone are deeply mistaken because actually the film is sophisticated enough,complicated to understand.Especially,for people lack in analytical skills and who doesn't have knowledge in financial terminology.I regret I didn't listen financial literacy classes because if i did I would have understood this movie more clearly.Admittedly,I didn't even watch it till the end due to the brain load and,in my situation, when you can't get the idea thoroughly you just lose interest to continue watching that kind of movie.Despite this,I'll give a positive rate to this motion picture because i can see that it isn't some kind of nonsense yet very good-quality movie which deserves the attention of the Oscar's Academy.Basically,the genre is similar to "The Wolf Of Wall Street" but the second isn't so sophisticated and more of a comedy.
Personally, I am a true scholar.That is why I don't know much about economic issues or financial system. Anyway, I was able to understand something.Although I'm not sure that I understood it completely,only superficially.
As I had understood, one peculiar genious forecasted economic crisis in the future and he decided to earn some money on it by investing for banks which later would pay him in case his conjectures about decline in real estate market would be confirmed.After this crazy idea whetted,another man working in the same area,decided to follow the lead,involving other individuals.Subsequently, all these economists with the great plan above failed because market was stable due to banks' cheating.The end of the story is unknown for me but I suspect that they achieved what they wanted.
The movie is brilliant for its impeccable performances.Actors' transformations are unbelievable so as viewers can have feeling that these people are real economists and not actors at all.I can pretty imagine how difficult it was to learn screenplay.Margot Robbie cheered with her small cameo.Among leading stars,I fancied Christian Bale,Finn Wittrok and Brad Pitt in the movie.Ryan Gosling is always the same in all his works.I don't really know what is so special about this guy apart from his charm.I regard him as a quite average actor.
To sum up,I would recommend "The Big Short" to spectators who have clues and interests in economy world.Also,the admirers of high-quality movies could add this piece to their bucket lists.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
LamontRaymondDec 12, 2015
It's a good solid market meltdown flick, but not nearly as good as Margin Call. I can imagine it was tough to jam that huge book into a movie, but they're not as successful in doing it as they were with Moneyball. The acting is top notchIt's a good solid market meltdown flick, but not nearly as good as Margin Call. I can imagine it was tough to jam that huge book into a movie, but they're not as successful in doing it as they were with Moneyball. The acting is top notch (especially Carrell's performance), but I felt that the little celerity asides explaining the financial products took us a bit too far out of the frame, though they are quite funny. Any of the primary actors could have achieved the same thing without making it feel like a stunt. I enjoyed the film, and that wallop at the end makes it a cautionary tale worth heeding by our government.… Expand
5 of 6 users found this helpful51
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9
Brent_MarchantJan 15, 2016
A surprisingly enjoyable film about an unlikely subject that's brought to life through a clever script, understated wit, finely executed film editing, and excellent performances by Christian Bale, Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling. This offeringA surprisingly enjoyable film about an unlikely subject that's brought to life through a clever script, understated wit, finely executed film editing, and excellent performances by Christian Bale, Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling. This offering is well deserving of all the accolades it has received, taking a complicated subject and making it easily understood for those unfamiliar with it. One of the best offerings from an otherwise-mediocre year in cinema.… Expand
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
DavidnbDec 11, 2015
Basicaly, my rule of thumb is thatif the NT Post hated it, it's got to be good. This continues to be true.............................................
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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10
TotallyEpicHDDec 11, 2015
Entertaining, funny, and smart! This movie combines all the right elements to make an intense situation into a fun movie! :-)

BTW, as of this review, it has a user score of 10/10. Seems about right ;-)
7 of 9 users found this helpful72
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8
GinaKJan 2, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this film, but I admit you have to pay attention. I lived through the crisis, so I guess I know more than people who didn’t have a lot of skin in the investment game at the time, but I still think the scriptwriter did anI thoroughly enjoyed this film, but I admit you have to pay attention. I lived through the crisis, so I guess I know more than people who didn’t have a lot of skin in the investment game at the time, but I still think the scriptwriter did an excellent job of explaining without teaching. The acting was uniformly excellent, and the script was terrific. It was both very funny and very scary because you realize that you can’t do anything about it and something similar could easily happen again tomorrow, but I still think it is an excellent way to explain and teach without being a bore. Lots of fun, even while it shows how we lost all those homes and all that money.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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3
half58Jan 2, 2016
The subject was interesting, the acting was (what I could watch of it) good. excellent way to introduce financial terms for the layman. The problem was the visual, this is the only reason why I gave it a 3. quick cuts (flash frames), zoomsThe subject was interesting, the acting was (what I could watch of it) good. excellent way to introduce financial terms for the layman. The problem was the visual, this is the only reason why I gave it a 3. quick cuts (flash frames), zooms without the camera being in focus of the actor, swish pans, all the rage now but made me feel nauseous. I had to close my eyes throughout most of it. I don't know why directors and producers think this is a good idea. Years ago if a cameraman showed me a tape he or she shot that was shaky, out of focus with fast pans I would fire them on the spot. This is no way to present any visuals. It is a shame no one cares about quality anymore.… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
CMCJan 6, 2016
Yes! Entertaining. The depiction of the Florida airhead loan guys, and the Florida scenes in general, are priceless. And then you remember that it is all real, it all went down this way. Great use of humor.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
TVJerryDec 26, 2015
This feels like a Michael Moore documentary with reenactments by a great cast (Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale). Director Adam McKay has utilized several cinematic tools to tell a complex and confusing story: entertaining montages,This feels like a Michael Moore documentary with reenactments by a great cast (Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale). Director Adam McKay has utilized several cinematic tools to tell a complex and confusing story: entertaining montages, snappy editing, short scenes and clever comedy. He examines how the sub-prime mortgage crisis brought our country (and the world) to the brink of financial disaster and how a small group of smart investors managed to make big money on it. The short-attention-span pacing and McKay's wildly creative approach (with those absorbing performances) make the film entertaining and ultimately infuriating.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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6
EludiumQ36Jul 9, 2016
I don't get all the enthusiasm for this film, maybe it's just fascination with A-list actors (Brad Pitt, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale), and celeb cameos: overexposed Margot Robbie - in a bubble bath no less - explaining MBSes, AnthonyI don't get all the enthusiasm for this film, maybe it's just fascination with A-list actors (Brad Pitt, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale), and celeb cameos: overexposed Margot Robbie - in a bubble bath no less - explaining MBSes, Anthony Bourdain explaining CDOs, and chipmunk-faced ditz Selena Gomez explaining synthetic CDOs. Yes, they're trying to liven up an otherwise boring topic that's more suitable as a documentary than a film drama, but they risk coming off as contrived, trying too hard. I think that's what aggravated me most; not everything is suitable for the theater, some stories are best done as television documentaries, and some are more suitable as a mini-series.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
samichsupernovaDec 31, 2015
"The Big Short" ruled. McKay's foray into more serious films (though this one is really funny, it knows when to make us laugh and when to get down to business) is a rousing success. This might be my movie of the year if "Mad Max" and "Ex"The Big Short" ruled. McKay's foray into more serious films (though this one is really funny, it knows when to make us laugh and when to get down to business) is a rousing success. This might be my movie of the year if "Mad Max" and "Ex Machina" hadn't already come out. It's smart, hilarious, entertaining, and informative. Like "The Wolf of Wall Street", it breaks the fourth wall in all the right places and the energy and tension never let up. The performances don't really stand out as much as the film's script and actual true-to-life content but Carrell turns in some surprising work and the cast is solid all across the board. The only thing I felt was missing was any nod at all to the big brokers/investors like Peter Schiff, Marc Faber, and Jim Rogers, who went on TV (some as early as 2006) accurately predicting the crisis, and also made serious bank off of it. I understand this is not their movie but would have appreciated even just a small acknowledgment that, yes, SOME very smart financial people saw this coming and were able to get on TV to warn us... only nobody listened because each network had talking heads to counter-point them (seriously, just look those dudes up on YouTube). Super-highly recommended.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
BrianMcCriticDec 25, 2015
While I still have a problem comprehending everything regarding the mortgage crisis this film goes a long way to fixing that. You got to give Adam McKay a lot of credit in telling a story in which the subject matter is extremely hard to tell. A-
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
FranzHcriticDec 26, 2015
It really hits you in the throat how corrupt Wall Street is, and how many people were screwed because of fraudulent systems and greed. Yet there is the comic effect of the ludicrousness of it all, how this is happening everyday, yet mostIt really hits you in the throat how corrupt Wall Street is, and how many people were screwed because of fraudulent systems and greed. Yet there is the comic effect of the ludicrousness of it all, how this is happening everyday, yet most people don't know what it's about. The whole cast is a comedic force. All in all, this was a very entertaining film. I loved it.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
Chazd3Jan 18, 2016
This 'would-be' very complicated dramatization of the 2008 meltdown was masterfully presented so that we could follow every progression of extreme fraud & malfeasance and utter clueless stupidity leading to the American taxpaying citizensThis 'would-be' very complicated dramatization of the 2008 meltdown was masterfully presented so that we could follow every progression of extreme fraud & malfeasance and utter clueless stupidity leading to the American taxpaying citizens taking it big...in the shorts. I thought I was familiar with most of the basics as to how the meltdown occurred. Wrong. I was shown layers of greed bordering on evil I didn't know existed.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
eagleeyevikingJan 31, 2016
The Big Short is funny, intelligent and entertaining from start to finish. The acting is brilliant across the board (Steve Carell stands out in particular) and Adam McKay directs with panache. One to invest in!
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
michael1208Jan 15, 2016
Financial and economy facts related drama will always trigger sleeping mode of the audiences but exceptionally, this turns out to be surprisingly fast-paced, entertaining and funny. Adapted from Michael Lewis' book about 2008 global financialFinancial and economy facts related drama will always trigger sleeping mode of the audiences but exceptionally, this turns out to be surprisingly fast-paced, entertaining and funny. Adapted from Michael Lewis' book about 2008 global financial crisis, the screenplay from director Adam McKay co-writing with Charles Randolph does not broadcast the audiences directly to understand tonnes of financial theories, but to engage and enlighten through another creative way by mixing this dry lessons with parody and satire. Without a significant hero, the choice of the cast is definitely perfect - Bale, Carell, Gosling and Pitt perform extremely well, together with the supporting casts to play around with mortgage, subprime rates and credit debts. Despite illustrating this subject in a triumphant way, it has also successfully delivered self-awareness regarding desperation, political corruptions and collateral damages in economy slowdown; leaving an impression of skepticism on Wall Street while restoring some faith in Hollywood's capability in making great films.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
PeterAlexanderJan 5, 2016
The Big Short is an incredibly insightful and dramatic film. My knowledge of the crash of the US housing market was very limited, which made for a viewing filled with intrigue. A stellar cast aids in progressing what is a quirky, yet at timesThe Big Short is an incredibly insightful and dramatic film. My knowledge of the crash of the US housing market was very limited, which made for a viewing filled with intrigue. A stellar cast aids in progressing what is a quirky, yet at times sad film. Such is the magic of the movie, as it leaves the viewer feeling a vast range of emotions, from anger towards the large banks, to gut-wrenching sadness for those who suffered most during the crisis. It is this ability that ensures that The Big Short is one of the best dramas in years.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
RvwFromUpHereJan 31, 2016
Who: Christian Bale, Michael Scott, and "WHAT DO YOU WANT?!" as Jared Vennett
What: A realistic Wolf of Wall Street that shows how to fear wealth instead of celebrating it
Where: The boring scenes from Wolf of Wall Street, otherwise knownWho: Christian Bale, Michael Scott, and "WHAT DO YOU WANT?!" as Jared Vennett
What: A realistic Wolf of Wall Street that shows how to fear wealth instead of celebrating it
Where: The boring scenes from Wolf of Wall Street, otherwise known as real life
When (Can I watch again): About a year
Why: If you want to see what Adam McKay is truly capable of as a director, while at the same time learning about the 2007 financial crisis in a way not terribly difficult to understand, this movie is for you… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
YorkManJan 4, 2016
Incredibly engaging and funny, The Big Short does a great job in educating the layman as to the absurdity of what lead up to the 2007 Financial Crisis.
Told from the perspectives of three different groups of investors who were able (one whoIncredibly engaging and funny, The Big Short does a great job in educating the layman as to the absurdity of what lead up to the 2007 Financial Crisis.
Told from the perspectives of three different groups of investors who were able (one who actually read the portents, and two others who got the heads up a little more vicariously) to short sell the loans that the huge investment banks were buying up then re-bundling under false 'ratings'.
What is refreshing is that as a viewer you know what is ultimately going to happen, but you are so caught up in the three different stories, the different perspectives and most importantly, the different characters.

Wonderfully acted, with a great musical score, it fills its run-time remarkably well.
My only real gripe with the movie is that the directorial style isn't great....

It's filmed in an almost 'fly on the wall' style, with a lot of reaction shots during conversations from others present, lot of 'shaky-cam' that is supposed to imply some kind of undercover recording going on and, worst of all, far too many quick cuts without giving the viewer a chance to take in the power of certain scenes. And there are many scenes that have immense resonance, as this is a very powerful story.

Highly recommended though, and well worth taking the time to check out.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
jakegenevaDec 13, 2015
The Big Short was a highly entertaining movie - excellently directed, well acted and terrific storyline. It's great to see a movie that highlights that makings of our huge financial crisis. I saw it with my 16 year old son, and the movieThe Big Short was a highly entertaining movie - excellently directed, well acted and terrific storyline. It's great to see a movie that highlights that makings of our huge financial crisis. I saw it with my 16 year old son, and the movie was very interesting to him because he hadn't really been aware of all the factors that caused our financial meltdown (he was only 9 at the time). He also thought that the movie was very well made and enjoyable to watch, even though the subject matter of the film was distressing.

Go see it!!… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
TheWhoDoctorJan 21, 2016
"The Big Short" was a very good outlook of the stock market drop in 2008. I felt like it was very educational to anyone who appreciates their livelihood, since the stock market crash affected everyone and put thousands out of jobs due to"The Big Short" was a very good outlook of the stock market drop in 2008. I felt like it was very educational to anyone who appreciates their livelihood, since the stock market crash affected everyone and put thousands out of jobs due to greedy businessmen. "The Big Short" really did a great job of telling the story of the crash; and to anyone,like myself, didn't understand some business terms like "Subprime". the movie did its best to explain these ideas to people who really do not understand how economics works. The movie also poured in comedy into the story which I felt was both necessary and not necessary, because I felt like some the comedy was a little inappropriate like the swearing, and it was necessary as well since it grabbed peoples attention when the situation became dull. overall I felt this was a FANTASTIC FILM and I highly recommend it to people.
PS, the cast was awesome as well… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
shahinsDec 27, 2015
The movie tells the story of several people/groups who predicted the economy crash of 2007 beforehand. It does a great job at showing how things started to crumble. It was very informative, and it felt like a documentary to me at times. It isThe movie tells the story of several people/groups who predicted the economy crash of 2007 beforehand. It does a great job at showing how things started to crumble. It was very informative, and it felt like a documentary to me at times. It is not an artsy movie though.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
CallidorDec 30, 2015
This movie is one of the realest, most informative movies I have seen in easy 10 years. It is a masterpiece imo and truly worth watching. Amazing story, felt so honest and real, the information given was given so well and articulated.This movie is one of the realest, most informative movies I have seen in easy 10 years. It is a masterpiece imo and truly worth watching. Amazing story, felt so honest and real, the information given was given so well and articulated.

Truly this is the movie of the decade for its genre imo, everyone should watch it, seriously, everyone.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
annebaughmanJan 1, 2016
Entertaining and informative for a subjuct that is notoriously elusive. Makes you want to learn more. Great ensemble cast. It's an incredible amount of money that we are talking about and a huge loss for so many Americans at the hands of the banks.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
FranklyputJan 3, 2016
Riveting and entertaining. Adam McKay did an amazing transforming Michael Lewis' technical story into an informing and entertaining movie. Great acting by Christian Bale. The book is incredible and the movie is even more incredible.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
Arabella70Feb 2, 2016
The Big Short is a movie about the housing market collapse of 2007-2008. The subject matter is often hard to fully comprehend, however; this movie puts it in terms that makes it easier to understand. The movie has an all star cast with greatThe Big Short is a movie about the housing market collapse of 2007-2008. The subject matter is often hard to fully comprehend, however; this movie puts it in terms that makes it easier to understand. The movie has an all star cast with great actors like Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt. Humor is used throughout the movie to keep the subject matter interesting and entertaining. There are also cameos by celebrities to further bring the subject matter down to layman's terms. Bale and Carell are brilliant in their portrayals. This is a movie you will want to see more than once as it is highly entertaining and funny, but also to fully understand what took place during the financial crisis of 2007-2008. You will get more out of it the second time around. Overall, great movie!… Expand
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2
will2econdFeb 12, 2016
If you want a movie that keeps your interest, continues to elevate throughout, this is not the movie for you. This movie is unfortunately dull and uninteresting.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
shoulderoforionDec 31, 2015
PUNK filming at it's near perfection, not a glossy look at masters of the financial universe & a great explanation of the financial collapse, such a treat
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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9
geo333Dec 30, 2015
The Big Short not only has an A star cast but has a strong intriguing story as well. With humor blended with a touchy subject, this film educates the viewer in a funny way that proves to be cleaver and perfect. Moral of the story don't trustThe Big Short not only has an A star cast but has a strong intriguing story as well. With humor blended with a touchy subject, this film educates the viewer in a funny way that proves to be cleaver and perfect. Moral of the story don't trust no one with your money.… Expand
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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10
doodlermanDec 12, 2015
A real eye-opener for me. Easily Adam McKay's best movie and one of the best of this year. It has a very documentary feel to it mixed with a Ferris Bueller's Day Off attitude. It works remarkably.
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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8
ydnar4Jan 16, 2016
Adam McKay shows the world that he is not just a director for stupid Will Ferrell movies (which I still love) with The Big Short. The story of several individuals that were able to predict the collapse of the housing market. McKay's directionAdam McKay shows the world that he is not just a director for stupid Will Ferrell movies (which I still love) with The Big Short. The story of several individuals that were able to predict the collapse of the housing market. McKay's direction is a highlight of the film and although this film deals with more serious subject matter than he's used to there are some pretty funny moments thrown in there as well. I know that this movie is certainly not for everyone because there is just so much talk about bonds, shares, etc. and most people just don't care about that. This subject is confusing but the film is very self-aware, it uses cameo appearances from several celebrities and several 4th wall breaks in order to explain the big terms to the audience. The cast is big but it delivers. I thought that Steve Carell was the big gun myself but others think its Christian Bale who was great too. Ryan Gosling and Brad Pitt are used less but there are great as well. In the end The Big Short is deserving of the attention its getting.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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1
TBallJul 12, 2016
This is a film that critics think you should like and convince themselves that they loved. In reality, it comes close to sucking completely. Except for a couple of decent performances, it does suck completely. There is no actual suspenseThis is a film that critics think you should like and convince themselves that they loved. In reality, it comes close to sucking completely. Except for a couple of decent performances, it does suck completely. There is no actual suspense since, like Apollo 13, you already know what happened. The cool dudes who were ahead of the curve are no more honest or decent than those the film is attacking. It takes its outrage out on Wall St.and only peripherally includes how dishonest the Democrats who shamefully and cynically created the sub prime mortgage problem and the bankers (Republicans) who, along with Hillary's buddies, gleefully profited from them. The sound in this movie is horrible, going from an overly loud rap and metal soundtrack to barely audible conversations. If you're watching it at home, keep the remote close. This movie is a smug failure.… Expand
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9
BHBarryDec 14, 2015
"The Big Short" is a film based on the book by Michael Lewis which details the fall of Wall Street in 2008 and the circumstances that led up to it. With an adaption of Mr. Lewis' book by Director Adam McKay and co-writer Charles Randolph, the"The Big Short" is a film based on the book by Michael Lewis which details the fall of Wall Street in 2008 and the circumstances that led up to it. With an adaption of Mr. Lewis' book by Director Adam McKay and co-writer Charles Randolph, the film has an outstanding ensemble cast including Ryan Gosling, Steve Carell, Christian Bale and Brad Pitt (who was also one of the producers of the film). Mr. Bale’s character and 3 others find that the bundles of mortgages being sold by Wall Street firms to their investors are loaded with subprime (a/k/a) "bad") mortgages, most of which have adjustable sweetheart rates that end in or about 2007. Recognizing this and the debacle that will ultimately occur when mortgage rates and payments will suddenly soar and foreclosures will become the inevitable consequence,, these savvy mavericks swap or 'sell short' these bundles in order to reap the high profit that they anticipate will come about. The film is filled with trade acronyms and concepts that even well seasoned brokers would not understand so, in order to educate the viewing audience, stars like Selena Gomez, Anthony Bourdain and a lady in a bubble bath interject themselves into various frames in the film in order to explain to the viewer the complexities of these arrangements.
The vehicle works and what might otherwise have been a disaster of technical jargon becomes a more or less easily understood combination of events, both serious and comedic, that led to the crash of 2008. There is no single performance that stands out although the sum of all them makes this a film that should be seen by anyone who directly or indirectly was impacted by what occurred in the fatal year when Wall Street houses and stocks crumbled. I give the film a 93 and recommend that it be seen if, for no other reason, to understand how vulnerable an unregulated and rogue bunch of brokers, dealers and institutions can and, in fact, did manipulate the system.… Expand
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7
JacobDec 28, 2015
The Big Short is a good self aware economic film. While it is talky and full of economic terms it knows this and smartly breaks down key terms for the average audience. The characters in it are well performed. If you can get past the shakyThe Big Short is a good self aware economic film. While it is talky and full of economic terms it knows this and smartly breaks down key terms for the average audience. The characters in it are well performed. If you can get past the shaky cam you can see this film for the well made piece that it is.… Expand
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8
podunk411Feb 5, 2016
Really entertaining yet well told story about the complicated mortgage (& then financial) collapse of 2008. The style was innovative given the subject matter, funny at times, sort of documentary-like and worked really well I think. Cast wasReally entertaining yet well told story about the complicated mortgage (& then financial) collapse of 2008. The style was innovative given the subject matter, funny at times, sort of documentary-like and worked really well I think. Cast was fantastic, script was solid though the pacing was a little different toward the last 3rd of the film. Definitely worth watching-- it's one of the better movies of 2015 for sure.… Expand
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10
jhepDec 29, 2015
“The Big Short or "A Funny Thing Happened On My Way to the Global Economic Meltdown”

THE HEDGE FUND MANAGER AS FOLK HERO…..Okay, okay, the idea may call for a little tweaking at first glance but in today’s topsy-turvy world where- as“The Big Short or "A Funny Thing Happened On My Way to the Global Economic Meltdown”

THE HEDGE FUND MANAGER AS FOLK HERO…..Okay, okay, the idea may call for a little tweaking at first glance but in today’s topsy-turvy world where- as Chris Hedges points out- almost every public institution has morphed into its opposite and become its own nemesis, this hedge-fund-manager-as-folk-hero idea might not be all that strange......In any event film maker Adam McKay makes a compelling, indeed fascinating case for this in his new film “The Big Short”.

The film is based on the Michael Lewis’ book “The Big Short; Inside the Doomsday Machine” and Adam McKay‘s film adaptation has wisely chosen to turn the story into a David and Goliath fable about “the little Hedge Fund that could”. The result is a parable of daring existential savvy and “cojones” triumphing over institutionalized corruption and tunnel vision; the sort of thing Kierkegaard or Albert Camus would applaud in a nanosecond, and although not quite your by-the-numbers Robin Hood caper, then at least something sufficiently “Robin Hood-ish” to have something for everyone to take heart about (i.e., the previously mentioned Little-Hedge-Fund-That-Could angle).

Incongruous as all of this may sound, the end result is an extraordinary cinematic and political delight from start to finish and is even (somehow?) perfect Christmas/Holiday Season fare. McKay’s innovative direction and his extraordinarily inspired cast keep things percolating at just the right, slightly off-kilter and wacky tempo. Christian Bale, Steve Carell, Brad Pitt (one of the film’s producers) and Ryan Gosling are all clearly on board with McKay’s Smartest-Guys-in-the-Room interpretation of events that what ultimately comes across is a sort of Lord-of-the-Rings-Comes-to-Wall-St. epic that is the movie equivalent of a real page-turner ! It would be a serious mistake to dismiss “The Big Short” as some kind of “feel good” exercise about small time hedge fund types taking big risks and hitting the jack pot because this very unusual film is far more than a quirky comedy or satire. When the dust finally settles what we have here is actually passionate, scathing and somehow monumental indictment not only of Wall St. but (even more courageous to state and more worrisome to consider) the outrageous complicity of elected officials who chose to do the bidding of their “Too-Big-To-Fail” banking overseers…..“Wall St. got bailed out, Main Street got sold out !” as the popular chant goes. The SEC/Security Exchange Commission, as well as the credit rating agencies Standard and Poors and Moody’s (see photo below) come in for more than a few well-deserved, well-aimed body blows.

“ Big Short” is an important film about what is arguably THE major struggle of our times: (a dismantled, downsized nominal democracy versus an insatiable and rapacious oligarchy). It also happens to be a work so strangely compelling that you will probably end up committing large chunks of it to memory after 2 or 3 viewings due to the fact that it regales us with such an audacious handling of its material - real gusto, passion and a sense of outrage rarely seen these days. What the viewer experiences is not unlike watching someone making their way over Niagara Falls on a tightrope: you hold your breath, wrestle with the impulse to cover your eyes and yet- through the whole ordeal- welcome every moment with real gratitude (psychologist Abraham Maslow’s idea that our perception of Truth helps to keep us sane and healthy probably kicks in here somewhere.)

This is also one of the most cinematically and politically FEARLESS films you’ll ever see; every gamble the script makes (and there are many) and every wildly intuitive hunch the direction takes (and there many) pays off totally…. nothing is overstated, no shot is held for even a nanosecond too long…our interest never flags….You would have to go back to Robert Altman on a very good day I.e., “Nashville”..….or Godard or Truffaut or Woody Allen on a good day to find a film this innovative.
What we end up watching in “The Big Short” is a story that is stranger than fiction and yet one that unfolds, is tried-and-true fairy tale tradition, with a cast of spellbound couriers, mysterious ancestral curses and wise old and not-so-old sages….in short the world that History itself appears to have been keeping in store for us now uber-challenged 21st century residents of planet Earth. All of this Adam McKay has chosen to direct with a gusto and panache that borders on audacity. Fortunately a kind of grace seems to hover over his every directorial decision and the result is dazzling and at times mesmerizing. We end up cheering for these underdog hedge fund managers who have thrown caution to the winds and risked everything on the use of their wits....as well as for a gifted American film maker and artist named Adam McKay who can so clearly empathize with them.… Expand
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7
ridemoosesJan 26, 2016
As a movie; it's okay. There are a lot of funny and witty moments but overall it doesn't tell a great "story". However, what it does do is give a powerful message of the corruption and influence of money in politics. The actors are fantasticAs a movie; it's okay. There are a lot of funny and witty moments but overall it doesn't tell a great "story". However, what it does do is give a powerful message of the corruption and influence of money in politics. The actors are fantastic in their roles and they work very well together. If you're looking for another reason to vote for Bernie Sanders you should see this movie.… Expand
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9
WiscoJoeJan 4, 2016
I laughed until I cried, then I cried until I was laughing again. And then I got angry.

A roller-coaster ride of a movie, as entertaining as it is enlightening, as emotional as it is enraging. A perfect mix of brilliant character studyI laughed until I cried, then I cried until I was laughing again. And then I got angry.

A roller-coaster ride of a movie, as entertaining as it is enlightening, as emotional as it is enraging. A perfect mix of brilliant character study and social commentary. The film is a bit much to take in at first, (especially combined with the sometimes too casual direction) and comes across as an extended 'Funny or Die' viral video. Once it hits its stride, you'll be so enraptured that you won't see the sucker punch coming. And it comes. Hard. Rarely has a film engaged me to this level. This is a movie you'll be thinking about and discussing for years to come. It will stick with you as you leave the theater, whether you want it to or not. Required viewing for anyone that loves good movies and anyone that cares about the fate of our society.… Expand
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9
kevtheobaldDec 25, 2015
They have taken a complex boring topic and made it enjoyable. With that said, this is Oliver Stone. If you hate movies that do lots of voice overs and breaking of the fourth wall, this will be a tough movie for you to watch.

The acting andThey have taken a complex boring topic and made it enjoyable. With that said, this is Oliver Stone. If you hate movies that do lots of voice overs and breaking of the fourth wall, this will be a tough movie for you to watch.

The acting and script is good overall. If foul language offends you easily, you should avoid this movie. With that said, I do not think the foul language is just being used to stupid. It comes across as something the people this movie is based on would do.

If you want a better understanding of what happen to the economy in 2007, this is a must see. If you want a popcorn flick where you can put your mind on cruse control, not the best choice.

I think everyone should see this movie just to get a better idea of one of the scams played by Wall Street on Americans and the world.… Expand
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7
beingryanjudeJan 5, 2016
Through the use of humor, entertaining explanations and over-the-top performances, THE BIG SHORT avoids becoming another dull look at the world’s largest financial crisis. Adam McKay and his bandits actually make it quite fun - while stillThrough the use of humor, entertaining explanations and over-the-top performances, THE BIG SHORT avoids becoming another dull look at the world’s largest financial crisis. Adam McKay and his bandits actually make it quite fun - while still recognizing the extreme fraudulences that occurred.… Expand
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7
csw12Dec 31, 2015
Made like a documentary, The Big Short tells a very complicated story through some unorthodox methods. The best part about the film is the way it explained key terms for the average audience. In the end, the film does a good job explainingMade like a documentary, The Big Short tells a very complicated story through some unorthodox methods. The best part about the film is the way it explained key terms for the average audience. In the end, the film does a good job explaining only one side of the story while excusing the other.… Expand
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8
SpangleDec 27, 2015
The Big Short starts off a little odd, but by the time it ends, the beginning makes more sense stylistically and you are left feeling almost empty. Watching the financial collapse happen almost all over again is a gut wrenching experienceThe Big Short starts off a little odd, but by the time it ends, the beginning makes more sense stylistically and you are left feeling almost empty. Watching the financial collapse happen almost all over again is a gut wrenching experience that The Big Short turned into the best time I had in the theater all year. Honestly, The Big Short may be the most entertaining and informative films I have watched in a film. Unique in its storytelling, entirely subversive, and odd/quirky, The Big Short is a great time and does a great job explaining its, at times, complex story. At no point do you feel lost or confused by its complex terminology, because it always bring it to the point where you can understand exactly what is happening. Even more, it is hysterically funny at times. Truly, it skewers its villains and twirls the knife with glee, though it does certainly leave its protagonists seeming more than a little morally and ethically ambiguous. Ryan Gosling and Steve Carell are absolutely phenomenal here. Christian Bale and Brad Pitt are also very, very good in their roles. Director Adam McKay manages to exceed all expectations with his directorial ability here and, honestly, I am not sure who else could have pulled it off with such a complex and unique way of telling this tale. The Big Short is not the best film of the year, but is certainly a contender for funnest film of the year.… Expand
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10
dinojay2Feb 3, 2016
Terrific movie which manages to do the seemingly impossible, make derivatives trading funny and interesting. The characters all have depth and the acting is superb.
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7
Compi24Jan 8, 2016
Yeah, half of the dialogue might sound like **** to me, but I can't deny good filmmaking at play. Bitingly apt satire mixes with earnest performances in what is clearly Adam McKay's passion project. "The Big Short" may not be accessible toYeah, half of the dialogue might sound like **** to me, but I can't deny good filmmaking at play. Bitingly apt satire mixes with earnest performances in what is clearly Adam McKay's passion project. "The Big Short" may not be accessible to everyone, but it's certainly funny and fun to watch.… Expand
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7
foxgroveJan 24, 2016
Director Adam McKay has made complex and potentially boring subject matter, the global market collapse of 2008, into an interesting and multi- faceted movie. It helps that the screenplay is sporadically funny even if impetus is lost by theDirector Adam McKay has made complex and potentially boring subject matter, the global market collapse of 2008, into an interesting and multi- faceted movie. It helps that the screenplay is sporadically funny even if impetus is lost by the end due to over length. The ability of the average viewer, however, to decipher all the plot points and jargon relating to the financial industry is almost guaranteed to restrict its audience. Of the actors, Steve Carell comes of best and totally redeems himself after his dreadful turn in ‘Freeheld’. Technically the film lacks clear visuals on occasion, but the kaleidoscopic editing style impressively reflects popular culture of the time.… Expand
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9
MovieGuysJan 31, 2016
The Big Short is a bold, matter-of-fact look at the housing market crash of 2008. The movie runs smoothly, explaining to the viewer the more confusing terminology with examples, almost like a documentary. Adam McKay's direction is a step upThe Big Short is a bold, matter-of-fact look at the housing market crash of 2008. The movie runs smoothly, explaining to the viewer the more confusing terminology with examples, almost like a documentary. Adam McKay's direction is a step up from his previous films, and the screenplay is genius. Overall, it deals with its subject matter quite well, and never oversteps its bounds.… Expand
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8
moviemitch96Dec 22, 2015
This film boasted an interesting cast and premise and certainly managed to provoke some big thoughts and ideas throughout. It also managed to remain consistently funny and fresh (for the most part.) It's worth noting that I loved the firstThis film boasted an interesting cast and premise and certainly managed to provoke some big thoughts and ideas throughout. It also managed to remain consistently funny and fresh (for the most part.) It's worth noting that I loved the first half of this film, as it was quick-witted and gave great insight through various forms, such as interesting facts, famous celebs explaining certain things, etc. However, I was somewhat dismayed to find that the second half, much like the film's subject matter, began to go slightly downhill to the point where it almost felt like a separate film (and not exactly in a good way.) By this time, the film had already made its point, yet it began to drag on for slightly longer than I would've liked. Aside from that, the performances were all rather enjoyable from a great cast. Christian Bale, Steve Carell, and Ryan Gosling all gave great, scene-stealing performances. Brad Pitt, however, certainly deserved more screentime in my opinion. Overall, despite what I considered to be a shaky second half, I'm willing to mostly forgive that due to the blast I had with the first half as well as the great performances from the ensemble cast. And besides, I will admit that Adam McKay did make a pretty good departure from his usual raunchy comedy films like Anchorman, Step Brothers, etc.… Expand
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9
AxgrinderJan 29, 2016
The Big Short manages to take a very heavy subject and turn it into a smart and informative comedy. The result is one of the best movies of 2015. (Sicario is still my top movie pick 2015 despite the Oscar snub.)

That being said, I doThe Big Short manages to take a very heavy subject and turn it into a smart and informative comedy. The result is one of the best movies of 2015. (Sicario is still my top movie pick 2015 despite the Oscar snub.)

That being said, I do have an Ax to grind. It seems like every movie I see has an opening screen shot that says, “Based on a true story”, which is a meaningless statement, and is not the same as, “The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” I mention this only because I see a whole lot of my fellow Metacritics blathering on about “Wall Street greed” as if they now have total understanding as to the cause the 2008-2009 Housing Crisis and Stock Market collapse.”

For those whose only source of information is this movie, I would respectfully point out that the movie fails to even mention the contributory (and possibly causal) role played by US government policies which, to put it kindly, ‘encouraged’ these lax lending standards, and the two GSEs (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac), which were then, and are still today, the principal buyers of Mortgage Backed Securities, when such MBS are up made up of FHA insured loans.

The GSE’s didn’t buy these MBS because they were duped by Wall Street. They bought them because Federal government policies required them to do so. There’s a wise old Wall Street saying which says: Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered. Too bad there isn’t a wise old saying about the unintended consequence of do-gooder politicians. (Barney? George? Are your ears burning?)… Expand
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10
zouz123Jan 2, 2016
Amazing movie. The cast is simply mesmerizing, especially Steve Carell, the story is portrayed smoothly and flawlessly, and all financial jargon is constantly and creatively explained. 10/10 all the way.
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7
jflaDec 28, 2015
The cast is great, particularly Carrell and Bale, McKay's direction is great and I loved the use of the celebrity cameos. But this film really didn't blow me away like I thought it would. Good movie, that I think people should see justThe cast is great, particularly Carrell and Bale, McKay's direction is great and I loved the use of the celebrity cameos. But this film really didn't blow me away like I thought it would. Good movie, that I think people should see just because of the story and that it needs to be told. But I would consider it more as a rental than actually going to the theaters and seeing… Expand
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7
jrodfilmsDec 24, 2015
i thought the movie was better than spotlight, since that film seems to be receiving all the praise. when most movies lose their momentum the third act this one became more intriguing. not debaucherous like wolf of wall street.
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9
anichelsJan 1, 2016
Loved it!
I have very limited business or stock market knowledge, but The Big Short presented the 2007 recession and housing market crash in a way that made me feel smart.
It doesn't pretend to be an educational movie and at times wasLoved it!
I have very limited business or stock market knowledge, but The Big Short presented the 2007 recession and housing market crash in a way that made me feel smart.
It doesn't pretend to be an educational movie and at times was difficult to follow.
The acting was absolutely great, even though some times you would like to strangle Steve Carrell.

The Big Short doesn't cater to your mental faculties - you have to get those cogs working to understand it.… Expand
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8
NerdConsultantJan 24, 2016
The Big Short was a very funny and also rather anger inducing (in a good way) films about outsiders predicting the Financial Crisis of 2008 and making a profit of it by betting against the banks which was very well written and actedThe Big Short was a very funny and also rather anger inducing (in a good way) films about outsiders predicting the Financial Crisis of 2008 and making a profit of it by betting against the banks which was very well written and acted especially by Steve Carrel it’s only weakness being that it’s two styles don’t completely mesh all the time though it does from the most part.… Expand
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8
tjman09Jan 13, 2016
The Big Short is one of those films that everybody could enjoy, and everybody should see. While the film is not perfect it is very funny, probably because the director is comedy specialist Adam McKay, and is also a somewhat important filmThe Big Short is one of those films that everybody could enjoy, and everybody should see. While the film is not perfect it is very funny, probably because the director is comedy specialist Adam McKay, and is also a somewhat important film because it’s very revealing. The Big Short is interesting and educational, features a great ensemble, but is subject to some distracting camerawork. For anybody interested in the 2008 Housing Market Crash this film is perfect.
The film begins with narration that addresses the biggest problem the film will have, which is that the Housing Market Crash of 2008 was an extremely complicated issue, that is why so few saw it coming. The story is so complicated, because it requires some understanding of how the housing system worked at the time, which apparently most of the people running the system at the time didn’t even have, so the film ends up teaching the audience how the crash happened. That sounds boring, but the film does a brilliant job by doing it through hilarious cameos and lacing the overly informational pieces with humor. The film accomplishes the very hard task of making the mess understandable, and even teaching those interested enough about how it went wrong.
When looking at it The Big Short clearly had a great script, with dialogue that just rolls, but in such a complicated movie the acting had to be good. Christian Bale is very good as the wacky Dr. Michael Burry, often embodying the odd personality he was tasked with, and even handling the task of showing a misunderstood genius. The other performer who was terrific was Steve Carell, who has consistently proved that he’s not just a great comedy actor. While Carell is known for films like The 40 Year Old Virgin, last years Foxcatcher and now The Big Short prove that he can give a performance with emotional depth, and a sense of humanity.
The only thing that the film really doesn’t well is it’s camerawork, which in such a complicated story seems too distracting. The Filmmakers felt they needed to rely on Close-Ups, rack focuses, and shaky movement. To be clear the film only feels so shaky, because much of the film is shot handheld, and in close-ups, which will accentuate movement. It’s easy with a lot of soft focus, which this film plays with a lot, to be pulled out of the film, and thus it requires even more effort from the audience to follow what’s happening. To make an example it’s like if somebody pointed at something in a dark cave at night, and then pointed a flashlight in your face, as you looked for it.
In the end, The Big Short is a funny, intelligent, well-acted, and interesting view of the few men able to make money when everybody else was losing money hand over fist. The entire ensemble of talented big name actors carry their own weight, and some even rise above expectations. To be honest everybody should watch this film, because it tells the ever important story of how ignorance caused a worldwide meltdown, and we’re apt to do it again if we don’t learn from our mistakes.… Expand
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7
moviecritic68Feb 15, 2016
Well if you are in the mood to get aggravated this movie will oblige. The acting and cast is superb but the story itself is a downer since it is a true story based on corruption & fraud. I can't disagree with those who rated it higher butWell if you are in the mood to get aggravated this movie will oblige. The acting and cast is superb but the story itself is a downer since it is a true story based on corruption & fraud. I can't disagree with those who rated it higher but it's value to me was slightly less. The fact that nothing has really changed reining in the big financial institutions is really disheartening which is shown in the out-takes.… Expand
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10
Simpsons92Jan 17, 2016
In my opinion, the best movie of 2015! It deserves all the noms in the Oscars especially McKay who i think was a tremendous genius in picking up a theme so difficult and yet making this movie super entertaining, funny and also clever! TheIn my opinion, the best movie of 2015! It deserves all the noms in the Oscars especially McKay who i think was a tremendous genius in picking up a theme so difficult and yet making this movie super entertaining, funny and also clever! The cast also contributed tremendously well with Carell, in my opinion, being the standout and once again showing us that he can definitely do more dramatic roles like this, Bale as always was freakin fabulous with his complex character, Gosling was pretty much the narrator but he was once again really funny and Pitt is the moral center, he didn't had more screentime but he delivers. It's simply sad that this movie is being overshadowed by crappy fanboy Star Wars because it's an extremely important movie that should be seen especially by all american society. A must see!!… Expand
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9
GentM2015Feb 24, 2016
The Big Short is an amazing and very well done movie directed by Adam McKay.The film also includes many stars such as Christian Bale,Steve Carell,Ryan Gosling and Brad Pitt.
The movie is based on a book by Michael Lewis and it's the trueThe Big Short is an amazing and very well done movie directed by Adam McKay.The film also includes many stars such as Christian Bale,Steve Carell,Ryan Gosling and Brad Pitt.
The movie is based on a book by Michael Lewis and it's the true story of the U.S mortgage housing crisis of 2005.Through their own research,some investors find out that the US mortgage backed securities market was a bubble about to burst.Then they decide to take on the big banks,and rightfully so,but what they didn't know is the impact on the average person that this is going to have.
I really enjoyed this movie,it has great acting and the stand out to me is certainly Christian Bale who once again gives a very good performance.Though that's nothing new really,he has been amazing since he started in this business.Steve Carell is also brilliant here,and maybe just as good as he was in Foxcatcher.
The director does a very good job at portraying these events on the big screen and most importantly making them simple enough for the average person to understand,since there are a lot of numbers.
The editing by Hank Corwin is amazing too and so is the score.I guess the only issues that I had are the way that some elements were explained (by cameos),and that fourth-wall breaking thing got boring and weird at some point.
Overall,this is a very well made and interesting movie that's amazingly directed and edited.The acting is top notch by pretty much everyone,and despite a few flaws I totally enjoyed this movie… Expand
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7
darkbloodshed13Feb 3, 2016
The Big Short is a big hit an every regard. It's funny, unique, historically accurate, and not to mention entertaining. The film depicts the fall of the housing market in 2008. It tries hard to depict the actual event and the people that newThe Big Short is a big hit an every regard. It's funny, unique, historically accurate, and not to mention entertaining. The film depicts the fall of the housing market in 2008. It tries hard to depict the actual event and the people that new about it as accurately as possible and when it breaks away from that the film takes time to make fun of it's self. Making for unique story. Plus the acting is fantastic, Steve Carrel delivers a great dramatic yet funny performance. However, this film isn't perfect. If you have no idea what this film is about then you might find your self wishing you were somewhere else. In conclusion if you are looking a fantastic comedy to distract you from real live stay a way from this film, but if you are looking for a unique film with a unique story than sit enjoy the show… Expand
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8
hanneguacamoleJan 22, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Rarely have I seen a movie that makes me so utterly angry and disgusted. And I believe that's what The Big Short was trying to do. It understood that we don't understand this economic crisis and its cause and ran with it, dumbing the topic down with humor. While at times jumbled, the movie still made me question whose side I was on. That of the ridiculously greedy bankers, hoodwinking the American people? Or those "outsiders" that wanted this corruption to end? But only because they would become filthy rich.)

Truly a moral dilemma, one that I would never want to be a part of. This utter greed and disregard was revolting and that's how it was displayed. Lavish trips to Las Vegas, not bothering to check the CDOs... And it's still happening, 8 years and many hardships later. But on the side of the film, not the topic, The Big Short gave interesting perspective. I don't think the movie could have survived without the explanations that doubled as comedic relief, yet they were placed just so the audience was not completely lost.

Star-studded as it may be, The Big Short doesn't follow big money. Going against the grain with no truly likable characters is never easy, and they nearly pulled it off. All that seemed to be missing was a real story – a tie that could connect the four individual men.… Expand
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7
SchmoshFeb 16, 2016
Pros
Solid short stories. Really interesting characters. Acted really well. Creative stylistic choices. Well paced.
Cons
The directing was messy and the soundtrack was intrusive and distracting
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9
hubickDec 28, 2015
I can't imagine a story based on true events surrounding this subject matter ever being made into a more entertaining movie. I went in expecting something more along the lines of a documentary, and was very pleasantly surprised. TheI can't imagine a story based on true events surrounding this subject matter ever being made into a more entertaining movie. I went in expecting something more along the lines of a documentary, and was very pleasantly surprised. The characters were intriguing, and despite knowing the overall outcome (the financial crash of 2008), the film kept you in suspense, wondering how it would turn out for them. Unless you're averse to financial/economic subject matter in general, this flick comes highly recommended.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
moothemagiccowJan 18, 2016
You gotta see this movie! Yeah I only understood about half of what was going on and I'm still reading wikipedia articles about securities and assets. It's surprisingly funny, very weird and just incredible at exposing the absurdity of theYou gotta see this movie! Yeah I only understood about half of what was going on and I'm still reading wikipedia articles about securities and assets. It's surprisingly funny, very weird and just incredible at exposing the absurdity of the real estate bubble.
Christian Bale is PERFECT in it. Everyone is a total dick, but you still want them to succeed. It's incredible.… Expand
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7
joehavermannDec 23, 2015
“The Big Short” tells an engaging story with an excellent cast.

Nevertheless, there are times that the film feels like a docudrama directed by Michael Moore; as a person who sometimes enjoys Moore’s work, I say that more as an observation“The Big Short” tells an engaging story with an excellent cast.

Nevertheless, there are times that the film feels like a docudrama directed by Michael Moore; as a person who sometimes enjoys Moore’s work, I say that more as an observation than a strict criticism. But like Moore’s work, the film is sometimes preachy in an overbearing way, and like Moore himself, writer/director Adam McKay doesn’t trust the audience with serious material: the film assumes that the audience must always be entertained. I don’t think I’m spoiling anything of substance when I mention that the film literally takes breaks from the story in order to have celebrity guests like Margot Robbie, Selena Gomez, and Anthony Bourdain explain complex financial instruments directly to the camera. The scenes are presented in a way that’s meant to come across as fun and irreverent. As somebody who followed the financial crisis as it unfolded, and read about it afterwards, I found the whole tack to be vaguely insulting. Still, McKay probably recognized that he had a fascinating and important story, and realized that he needed a way to convey this information to members of the audience without boring or confusing them; he can’t be faulted for operating from accurate assumptions.

The film follows the interesting characters who took the daring position of ‘betting’ against the housing market in the mid-2000s (through short selling). It should be noted that these weren’t the first people to notice the housing bubble -- just the ones who profited from it. (Dean Baker, who also accurately predicted the tech bubble burst, wrote about this as early as 2002; see ‘The Run-Up in Home Prices: Is it Real or Is it Another Bubble?,’ Aug 2002.) Pointing this out doesn’t make their stories any less engrossing. I found Christian Bale’s performance in the role of Michael Burry particularly noteworthy; Carrel and Gosling are also terrific.

“The Big Short” is not the best of the year, and I don’t think it deserves the Oscar nomination it will surely receive. But it’s good. And it is fundamentally accurate in its depiction of the financial industry as driven by fraud and fueled by greedy incompetence.… Expand
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8
EpicLadySpongeJan 26, 2016
The Big Short has managed to make me like this movie! What a new record.... however, it's an 8 and not any higher than that. An 8 is still a good score right? Yep.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
Zuliemon1Dec 29, 2015
Great movie. The financial collapse caused by the sub-prime mortgage market and those greedy bastards on Wall Street is a tough subject to cover with both humor and clarity. This movie does both very well and in an entertaining manner. It'sGreat movie. The financial collapse caused by the sub-prime mortgage market and those greedy bastards on Wall Street is a tough subject to cover with both humor and clarity. This movie does both very well and in an entertaining manner. It's highly recommended if you can follow something other than the usual mindless tripe that has become MOST movie fare these days.… Expand
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9
zahirDec 31, 2015
Great movie. Great acting. Perfect Story telling. Loved the story and how they didn't sugar coat any of the facts. It shines a light at the dark reality of the situation, but at the same time is an entertaining movie. It leaves you withGreat movie. Great acting. Perfect Story telling. Loved the story and how they didn't sugar coat any of the facts. It shines a light at the dark reality of the situation, but at the same time is an entertaining movie. It leaves you with questions, and keeps you wondering, which in my opinion is the highest honor a movie can receive. I am not sure if its my personal disgust of the new star wars that makes this movie as great as i put it or it is that great. I loved the movie, but it could've been a disaster if it hadn't been told right. I pay my respects to the director for telling a fascinating story.… Expand
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8
Will_TellJan 2, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie was entertaining throughout, with very few dull moments. Even a few humorous points were well done. The financial content of the movie was fairly complex, which is the way it's meant to be. That is, the financial instruments used by "Wall Street" leading up to the crisis were sufficiently complex that hardly anyone could understand how they worked. And thus hardly anyone could foresee their eventual collapse. If you believe the story as told by this movie, you place almost all the blame on the Wall Street banks and financial ancillaries, for creating and trading these complex financial instruments in order to make a fortune, while the government regulators were essentially asleep at the switch. Of course, that's far from an accurate picture. It was the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that told Fannie and Freddie to make loans to "underserved" borrowers, and in fact specified minimum quotas for the numbers of such borrowers. In order to comply, Fannie and Freddie substantially reduced their underwriting standards. Whereas before 1992, Fannie and Freddie required that mortgages require a 10 percent down payment, by 2000 they required no down payment. So it was federal policy to encourage banks to make mortgage loans to borrowers who were poor credit risks. In fact, I would use the word "force" instead of encourage. This aspect of the "crisis" was not on the agenda of the filmmakers.… Expand
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9
CaptRedBeardJan 9, 2016
Films of finance and money managers have broken new ground in recent years with the likes of 'Margin Call' [2008] and 'The Wolf of Wall Street' [2013]; but a new kind of financial drama is round the bend and launching the loot-based brokerFilms of finance and money managers have broken new ground in recent years with the likes of 'Margin Call' [2008] and 'The Wolf of Wall Street' [2013]; but a new kind of financial drama is round the bend and launching the loot-based broker picture to new heights with Adam McKay's 'The Big Short'.

A three-way biographical account of how certain people at the heart of America's banking industry forecasted the Global Financial Crisis of 2008 and profited greatly from it, Adam McKay (of 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' [2003] and 'Step Brothers' [2008] fame) has co-written this script with Charles Randolph ('Love & Other Drugs' [2010]), based on Michael Lewis' book, 'The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine', published in 2010. In what could be considered McKay's first real venture into serious filmmaking, The Big Short boasts fantastic performances from a rock-solid round-up of players, including Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale, and especially Brad Pitt, in a very reserved, moralistic and matured role - it's a shame he doesn't have more screen time. McKay manages to make boring subject matter interesting, satirical, mischievous and even thought-provoking, as our supposed 'heroes' are challenged to re-examine their values and their integrity. But where this film separates itself from others of its kind is its transparency. We are let in on some of the circumstantial inaccuracies, mostly through Gosling's very candid and cool narration. Characters frequently break the fourth wall, providing 'spark notes summaries' and creative metaphors to help decode and paraphrase all the economic jargon; a wonderfully fresh and focal method of exposition in order to maintain comprehension and interest.

With relatively but deliberately unstable cinematography from Barry Ackroyd ('The Hurt Locker' [2008], 'Captain Philips' [2013]), it has a tremendous sense of edginess and enigmatic energy, propelled by the powerhouse performances of the ensemble cast; Carell in particular. With freeze frames, a fragmented narrative, and frantic editing style, it bounces from scene to scene as it fields cynical humour, dramatic weight, and socio-economic commentary in beautiful proportion. Director McKay expertly places the main characters in the position of the audience - they can do nothing but sit and watch what happens (or is about to happen) before them. Our supposed heroes may stand to become financially rich, but ultimately morally bankrupt as these select few stand victorious over thousands who lose houses, jobs, and their lives. Viewers are challenged to consider "Would I not do the same thing?' The interest in this story and these characters isn't in the where the story concludes, because it's known and predictable; the interest lies in the journey, as this mixed bag of stake holders navigate and wrestle with their own values in amidst the madness of the money market.

An insightful and eye-opening investigation of accountability and moral responsibility, this powerful picture is easily the best effort of McKay's career to date. It'll be a tough one to top; both in terms of his career and the upcoming Golden Globe Awards (and perhaps the Academy Awards). A high recommendation, 'The Big Short' is one of the most important films of this century thus far.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
pastorkevinJan 8, 2016
A little bit on the nerdy side, with burst of unexpected humor and fine performances, especially from Steve Carell, who once again proved that he is so much more than just a funny man - it wouldn't be out of place for Best Supporting Actor toA little bit on the nerdy side, with burst of unexpected humor and fine performances, especially from Steve Carell, who once again proved that he is so much more than just a funny man - it wouldn't be out of place for Best Supporting Actor to go his way at the Oscars this time around. Having said that, the entire ensemble were first class, and despite the nerdiness, it was just about the best two hours of the Christmas releases.… Expand
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7
herndonrulesJan 17, 2016
Tells a story involving complex financial mechanisms in an understandable and entertaining way. Not easy to do. The ensemble cast all act the the story well, all are portrayed as eccentric, which I guess is why this is described as comedy.Tells a story involving complex financial mechanisms in an understandable and entertaining way. Not easy to do. The ensemble cast all act the the story well, all are portrayed as eccentric, which I guess is why this is described as comedy. Not sure I see it that way, given the tragedy the movie portrays. Tough to find a hero in this, as all are out to make money. It also glosses over the role the federal government had in contributing to the crisis. Those are minor criticisms against an overall worth seeing movie. Stick around for the devastating closing credits and music.… Expand
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10
Dave34Jan 25, 2016
One of the best movies this year. Acting was great and the screenplay was nothing short of amazing.
After this film I'm tossing out the AAA ratings, and I don't know who wouldn't after seeing how corrupt the financial system can be.
I foundOne of the best movies this year. Acting was great and the screenplay was nothing short of amazing.
After this film I'm tossing out the AAA ratings, and I don't know who wouldn't after seeing how corrupt the financial system can be.
I found the film to be very freshing and surprising, highly recommend.… Expand
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7
LeoAshtonJan 19, 2016
Good performances by the whole cast, especially Steve Carell. The pacing was great but it masked that it's basically a one note movie. Bankers are dumb and greedy. Not much else to say. I also did not care for the constant breaking of the fourth wall
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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2
Trev29Jan 24, 2016
A total disaster of a film. It is wildly incoherent, preachy, and just not interesting in the slightest. The characters were not likable, and it wasn't even funny.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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10
ProsmoothDec 30, 2015
There is one political party that wants to regulate Wall Street and one party that doesn't. Remember this movie and what happened in 2007 the next time you go to vote.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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10
ledaumasDec 27, 2015
Excellent and entertaining way to educate us on things that are hard to understand. Now we know why we don't understand market conditions as they relate to our economy. Even the experts and people in the know have trouble figuring how thingsExcellent and entertaining way to educate us on things that are hard to understand. Now we know why we don't understand market conditions as they relate to our economy. Even the experts and people in the know have trouble figuring how things work and this movie tells us why. We loved the mini explanations by people not involved in the rest of the movie. It made us realize these were the scenes to Explain the hard to understand scenes. A warning tale that the market cares little about ethics or moral codes and that the market is really one big gambling game that directly affects our economy.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
jbrown8989Jan 5, 2016
Movie was well made and in a unique, almost documentary style. They did a very good job of informing the viewers about a lot of the technical jargon. I was very entertained and the acting was really good (especially Christian Bale). Not sureMovie was well made and in a unique, almost documentary style. They did a very good job of informing the viewers about a lot of the technical jargon. I was very entertained and the acting was really good (especially Christian Bale). Not sure if it is a "must see in a movie theatre" movie but it is worth seeing… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
AdamanianxJan 20, 2016
Loved it! Great all star cast and I wasn't bored for a second. This movie does an amazing job exposing some of America's corporate corruption. Although it's not a comedy, they did a great job sprinkling lol scenes throughout.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
yosemiteJan 20, 2016
Really good film. Great directing and acting. Terrific pacing. If there is a problem ( I gave it an 8 ) its the subject matter. High finance is an uncomfortable subject for most people. Its complex and the majority doesn't fully understandReally good film. Great directing and acting. Terrific pacing. If there is a problem ( I gave it an 8 ) its the subject matter. High finance is an uncomfortable subject for most people. Its complex and the majority doesn't fully understand it. The problem is thats what the movie is about. If you had no interest in football, chances are the movie Concussion wouldn't hold your interest. Same with The Big Short. Still well worth seeing… Expand
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9
grindtreeJan 21, 2016
Okay, this is definitely one of my top 5 favorite movies of 2015. Falling short just behind The Force Awakens, Mad Max, and The Martian. The reason i didnt give it a 10 is just because i'm not smart enough to understand all the tradersOkay, this is definitely one of my top 5 favorite movies of 2015. Falling short just behind The Force Awakens, Mad Max, and The Martian. The reason i didnt give it a 10 is just because i'm not smart enough to understand all the traders language and i didn't have enough knowledge in it.

Steve Carrel gave his best performance ever, and as usual Christian Bale is outstanding. Nevertheless, almost all of it's cast were superbly brilliant. No doubts here since it assemble the most brilliant actors nowadays.
Adam McKay had wrote Ant Man geniously, and now he done it again by directing the Big Short.
Aside from billiantly entertaining script, excellent editing, and all other major factors which form an excellent movie, the soundtracks itself is another key element of this movie.

Hearing Metallica while you interview a future employee?? PRICELESS!!… Expand
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0
truthsabreJan 21, 2016
The fact that so many people have written glaring reviews about this film should be proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Mike Judge's 2006 film "Idiocracy" has become a reality.

This movie is very slow paced (2 1/2 hrs) and it tries toThe fact that so many people have written glaring reviews about this film should be proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Mike Judge's 2006 film "Idiocracy" has become a reality.

This movie is very slow paced (2 1/2 hrs) and it tries to make financial terminology seem "hip" when it is not. I'm interested in finance however, unless you find it completely fascinating most of the terms will go way over your head.

This film has an all-star cast yet, the only one I thought stood out was Brad Pitt - he had a good presence. The rest (especially Steve Carrell) were hardly an afterthought. Christian Bale's performance was so overrated in this movie and it's not like it was grueling role he needed to prepare for psychically (compared to some of his previous great works).

Also, none of the characters go though any significant changes - where they have some powerful life insight. The film is also anti-climatic - when the climax arrives, you hardly know it's there.

There's no scene in this film that stands out in my mind where you''l be like "wow that was memorable" or "wow that's a quotable line"

If you're a person who wants to see an entertaining film, this probably isn't the best choice.
Every time a film gets a ton of "critical acclaim" and there are people who are praising a film they haven't seen yet in order to look sophisticated among their friends - it's a huge red flag that the movie is boring as hell.… Expand
2 of 12 users found this helpful210
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3
Val-835Jan 13, 2016
I have to agree with "half58". What's with the endless quick cuts ? How is that suppose to help telling the story ? Flash, flash, flash most of the time. The actors do what they can but it's a lost cause. Take the other investigative movie,I have to agree with "half58". What's with the endless quick cuts ? How is that suppose to help telling the story ? Flash, flash, flash most of the time. The actors do what they can but it's a lost cause. Take the other investigative movie, Spotlight. What a different style. It goes to show how unnecessary and pointless this razzle dazzle, shaky camera shoot style is. You see it on TV most of the time and is one of the reasons I don't watch TV that much these days. Good story, terrible storytelling.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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1
TheKavehJDec 26, 2015
To most people, The Big Short is one of the best movies of the year. To me, The Big Short is a long, confusing, and boring film. Delivering only a few laughs, The Big Short is not worth spending a penny to see.
3 of 22 users found this helpful319
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9
StevieGJDJan 22, 2016
Really enjoyed this movie. I was aware of the truth of the story so this did not shed any new light on greed for me. But it was a very entertaining and amusing film. I'm not sure how I feel about all of the characters we are made to careReally enjoyed this movie. I was aware of the truth of the story so this did not shed any new light on greed for me. But it was a very entertaining and amusing film. I'm not sure how I feel about all of the characters we are made to care about in the film. Some of them are really not very good human beings. But they are all well acted and are very funny at times. Having an understanding of how the market works and is manipulated makes this film much easier to understand. My wife, who is an attorney and is very intelligent, doesn't have the economics background to understand all of what was going on. So having an understanding of the gambling that the stock market has become is very helpful is appreciating this film and The Big Short is a very fun little romp - definitely one of the best movies of the year.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
GreatMartinJan 1, 2016
For many years I have said that my brother got the money gene and I got the good looking gene and, once again, “The Big Short” may prove that true. The film is about the financial collapse in 2008 and those who made billions of dollarsFor many years I have said that my brother got the money gene and I got the good looking gene and, once again, “The Big Short” may prove that true. The film is about the financial collapse in 2008 and those who made billions of dollars while an unaccountable number of people lost their homes and/or jobs. Much is made of the fact that many behind the scene, knowing what was going on, didn’t do a thing to stop it and got away scot free.

The film, with humor at odds with the theme, tries to explain exactly how the collapse came about in terms that even people like me might understand including the actors talking to the audience. This latter gimmick is at first interesting, including Margot Robbie in a bubble bath drinking champagne and later Selena Gomez gambling in a Las Vegas casino explaining aspects of subprime mortgages, loans and other finances but it eventually becomes distracting when an actor breaks the fourth wall, making you tune out on what is being said.

Though it is very much an ensemble film certain actors stand out such as Brad Pitt, almost unrecognizable until you realize who it is, playing a retired banker, Christian Bale as, to say the least, a very eccentric hedge fund manager, Ryan Gosling as an investor and Steve Carell as a rude trader. Marisa Tomei and Melissa Leo, though good are more or less wasted.

What interested me were the actors I didn’t know or did know but couldn’t name them. In the former group was Finn Wittrock as a young investor and Rafe Spall, both very impressive, and in the latter Jeremy Strong, Hamish Linklater and Adepero Oduye.

Though the writers Charles Randolph and Adam McKay wrote the screen play, based on the book by Michael Lewis, using humor just doesn’t sit right with a subject we know does not have happy ending and brought the USA on the verge of collapse, affected the rest of the world and still does. The direction by McKay is hectic; the editing by Hank Corwin is confusing and the music, at times, jars the audience out of the movie.

Money gene or not, understanding finance or not, I found the actors more interesting than I did the movie. “The Big Short”, by its subject alone, should have been more effective even though you will shake your head as the screen shows what didn’t happen to the ones who caused the collapse.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
TrilobiteGJan 22, 2016
Perhaps it's particularity to taste in comedy and style at the beginning of this movie threw me off a little. Somehow, it didn't feel natural and was almost messily edited one could phrase. Little did I know, we were just getting a taste ofPerhaps it's particularity to taste in comedy and style at the beginning of this movie threw me off a little. Somehow, it didn't feel natural and was almost messily edited one could phrase. Little did I know, we were just getting a taste of the overwhelming and utterly disgusting national doom in 2008 when the American Economy fell right on it's arse. Phenomenal performances across the board from Bale, Gosling, Pitt and Carrell captivate you to feel not for one person, not even for a few thousand, but millions who lost their homes and jobs. It was almost documentarian how this was shot, keeping it swimmingly entertaining whilst gradually increasing dramatic potential until the final fall. A pivotal economic film and certainly as good as a lingering concern for the global population has ever been with scatterings of clever, self-aware and helpful humour. I'm impressed how they could make a film with such impossible devices could have such a real tone to it.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
nicholasbertJan 10, 2016
Driven mostly by its interesting matter and a grand (albeit short) performance by Christian Bale, The Big Short takes a different and sometimes schizophrenic approach at camera movements, but the fun parts are quite fun indeed, and as I said,Driven mostly by its interesting matter and a grand (albeit short) performance by Christian Bale, The Big Short takes a different and sometimes schizophrenic approach at camera movements, but the fun parts are quite fun indeed, and as I said, the power of it lies mostly in its true-story feel.… Expand
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9
bfoore90Mar 29, 2017
An incredible and riveting movie that takes a very real, uncensored look at the 2008 collapse and how the big banks are the ones running this country into the ground with little to no form of accountability.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
keemtJan 5, 2016
I might have been too excited to see this film. The acting was great, especially Carell. The jokes weren't funny, the music wasn't good or well-blended, and the events weren't exciting, but were a little shocking. Overall I think it's theI might have been too excited to see this film. The acting was great, especially Carell. The jokes weren't funny, the music wasn't good or well-blended, and the events weren't exciting, but were a little shocking. Overall I think it's the best documentary (without graphs) but nowhere near the movie it could have been. A more effusive focus on the dramatic, stressful, tense moments or the joys and excruciating wierdness of everything would have been great. The directing and editing certainly weren't bad, I just imagine that the scenes evoked more emotion in the makers of this film than in me.

Pointless complaints would be that 1) we didn't even get to see the outline of Margot Robbie's breasts (why am I paying theater prices??) and 2) the government's role in the crisis wasn't mentioned at all---and although I'm sure this is pretty consistent with the book, it's still irritating to me.

Definitely hope Leo finally gets his oscar for this one.… Expand
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0
FarsheedNov 24, 2016
From many aspects, it had tried to be something like The Wolf of Wall Street, but not successful it had been.
Its characterization was awful. Generally, The Big Short was the worst movie of 2015.
0 of 10 users found this helpful010
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