42 Thought-Provoking Anti-Capitalist Films
42 titles
- 1
Princess MononokeMovie · 1997 · 134m · Adventure, Fantasy, AnimationPrince Ashitaka of the Emishi is cursed by a vengeful boar god and journeys west seeking a cure. His travels force him to confront the clash between those who want to protect the forest and those who seek to exploit it. He meets San, a fierce protector of the woods, and Lady Eboshi, a determined leader aiming for prosperity by using the forest's resources. Ashitaka must now navigate the conflict between these opposing forces, searching for a way to find balance between nature and humanity.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.3 - 2
Office SpaceMovie · 1999 · 90mFeeling deeply unhappy, a desk-bound professional seeks help through hypnotherapy. The treatment leaves him in a constant state of carefree happiness, leading him to disregard societal norms and devise a clumsy plan to steal from his demanding employers.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 3
Pan's LabyrinthMovie · 2006 · 118m · Fantasy, Drama, WarFollowing the Spanish Civil War, ten-year-old Ofelia and her pregnant mother go to live with her abusive stepfather. She discovers a strange labyrinth and encounters a faun who tells her she might be a princess from a hidden kingdom. To find her real father, Ofelia must complete a series of bizarre and dangerous challenges that make it hard to tell what's real and what's not.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8 - 4
Modern TimesMovie · 1936 · 87m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceA lovable but clumsy wanderer becomes determined to build a home with a kind young woman. His constant mishaps repeatedly threaten their dream and test their growing friendship.
Against a picturesque rural setting, the film explores love, determination, and overcoming challenges, blending humor and heart. Through comedic adventures, the protagonist learns about self-reliance and friendship while trying to build not just a house, but a better future.
Despite his flaws, audiences will root for this endearing underdog as he navigates hilarious situations and discovers that true success comes from enjoying the journey, not just achieving the goal.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.3 - 5
American BeautyMovie · 1999 · 122m · DramaLester Burnham, a middle-aged advertising executive, lives a dull life in a picture-perfect suburb. Feeling trapped and depressed, he unexpectedly becomes drawn to Angela, the friend of his daughter. This attraction sparks a renewed zest for life in Lester, leading him to make significant changes in his relationships and question his long-held beliefs. The film explores self-discovery, personal growth, and family dynamics through both funny and moving moments, all set against a backdrop of superficiality.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 6
A Bug's LifeMovie · 1998 · 95m · Family, Animation, AdventureFlik, a clever ant, wants to defend his colony from a group of greedy grasshoppers. Led by the harsh Hopper, the grasshoppers take all their food without giving anything back. Determined to protect his friends, Flik sets off on a journey to find other bugs who can fight back against Hopper's rule. Along the way, he discovers courage, friendship, and how working together can overcome difficult challenges.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 7
They LiveMovie · 1988 · 93m · Science Fiction, Action, ThrillerA lone traveler discovers a pair of sunglasses that reveal a terrifying truth: aliens are among us, disguised as humans and secretly controlling society. Seeing this, he’s driven to expose their conspiracy before they fully take over. The film is a suspenseful thriller exploring identity, trust, and the lengths one man will go to save humanity from an unimaginable danger.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 8
The Lego MovieMovie · 2014 · 100m · Animation, Family, AdventureA regular Lego mini-figure is mistaken for the legendary MasterBuilder and unexpectedly joins a mission to defeat a wicked Lego tyrant who threatens to take over the entire universe.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 9
Chicken RunMovie · 2000 · 84m · Animation, Comedy, FamilyThe team behind Wallace & Gromit presents a charming and inventive story about a group of chickens who want to escape their coop – despite not being able to fly. Rocky tries to teach Ginger and her friends how to fly, but with teamwork, determination, and a little courage, the brave chickens plan one final attempt at freedom in a dazzling effort to fly.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 10
The Wolf of Wall StreetMovie · 2013 · 180m · Crime, Drama, ComedyA New York stockbroker becomes a key witness in a major securities fraud case, exposing widespread corruption within Wall Street, corporate banking, and organized crime. Based on the true story of Jordan Belfort.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0 - 11
Dawn of the DeadMovie · 2004 · 101m · Horror, ActionWhen a devastating outbreak transforms the world's population into aggressive, flesh-eating zombies, a band of survivors seeks refuge in a sprawling shopping mall.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 12
Land of the DeadMovie · 2005 · 93m · Horror, Science Fiction, ThrillerA zombie apocalypse has ravaged the planet, forcing the surviving humans to seek refuge within a walled city for safety.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 13
Sweeney ToddMovie · 2006 · 90m · Drama, Horror, ThrillerThis BBC adaptation tells the story of Sweeney Todd, a 19th-century barber in London known as the "demon barber" of Fleet Street. He secretly murders his customers in his shop.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3 - 14
Fight ClubMovie · 1999 · 139m · Drama, ThrillerThe film follows two unlikely partners: a man plagued by insomnia and a charismatic soap salesman. Exploring the complexities of human nature, they develop a unique therapy involving intense physical fights to release aggression. This sparks the growth of underground "fight clubs" across towns. Their venture takes a dangerous turn when an unusual person joins their ranks, leading to escalating and unpredictable consequences. The movie presents a raw and insightful look at masculinity, societal expectations, and the pursuit of connection through unconventional methods.IMDb 8.8TMDB 8.4 - 15
The Social NetworkMovie · 2010 · 121m · DramaIn 2003, Harvard student and computer programmer Mark Zuckerberg develops an idea that evolves into Facebook, the world's largest social network. By 2009, Zuckerberg has become one of the youngest billionaires, but his rapid success brings unexpected challenges. He faces two lawsuits: one from a former friend, creating significant personal and legal difficulties.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 16
There Will Be BloodMovie · 2007 · 158m · DramaDaniel Plainview, a hard-edged silver miner, arrives in California seeking oil wealth. He uses his son to create a facade of respectability while swindling local landowners out of their land for cheap. But the devout preacher Eli Sunday sees through Plainview's act, and a growing conflict develops between the two men, putting both of them in danger.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 17
Killing Them SoftlyMovie · 2012 · 97m · Crime, ThrillerJackie Cogan is a hired muscle tasked with restoring stability after three inexperienced criminals disrupt a Mafia-protected card game, triggering a breakdown of the city's criminal underworld.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 18
A Clockwork OrangeMovie · 1971 · 137m · Science Fiction, CrimeIn a near-future Britain, a young man named Alexander DeLarge and his friends find pleasure in violence and sexual assault. He is also deeply moved by Beethoven's music. To address rising juvenile crime, the government offers DeLarge an option: a procedure that will eliminate his ability to make independent choices. In a society where morality is rare, can DeLarge find a way to change?IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.2 - 19
Capitalism: A Love StoryMovie · 2009 · 128m · Documentary, HistoryMichael Moore returns to his signature focus: how powerful corporations negatively affect the daily lives of Americans – and, by extension, people everywhere.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 20
Grave of the FirefliesMovie · 1988 · 89m · Animation, Drama, WarIn the last months of World War II, this moving story follows siblings Seita and Setsuko as they cope with the loss of their mother in an air raid that destroyed Kobe, Japan. After a conflict with their aunt, the children are forced to live in a deserted bomb shelter. As supplies run out, Seita and Setsuko face hunger and despair, relying on each other for strength. The film is a reminder of the resilience of young people and the power of family love during terrible times.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4 - 21
God Bless AmericaMovie · 2012 · 104m · Comedy, Drama, CrimeDisgusted by the perceived flaws in American society, two individuals embark on a violent path, targeting reality television personalities, prejudiced people, and others they deeply despise.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 22
BrazilMovie · 1985 · 143m · Comedy, Science FictionSam Lowry is a bored bureaucrat who escapes his dull life through vivid daydreams of being a heroic savior. While investigating the wrongful arrest and death of an innocent man, instead of the actual suspect, Harry Tuttle, Sam encounters the woman from his dreams. Trying to help her, he becomes caught in a confusing world of mistaken identities, pointless paperwork, and lies.
This quirky drama explores escaping reality, standing out against the crowd, and the silliness of modern government. Sam's story is about finding himself and wanting adventure within a system that feels restrictive, prompting viewers to consider their own lives and society.
The film blends dark humor with heartfelt moments, using Sam's fantasy as a way to criticize how bureaucracy can crush creativity and personal growth. Ultimately, "Sam Lowry" is both an enjoyable story and a thoughtful look at today's world.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 23
Salt of the EarthMovie · 1954 · 94m · Drama, HistoryAt New Mexico's Empire Zinc mine, Mexican-American workers organize to challenge unsafe conditions and unequal pay compared to their white counterparts. Ramon Quintero becomes their leader, uniting them in their fight for fairness. But at home, Ramon's relationship with his pregnant wife, Esperanza, mirrors the unfairness he confronts at work. When a court order ends the strike, women step up to picket while men manage the household, challenging traditional roles. This drama explores themes of social justice, equality, and the power of community and individual resilience.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 24
AtlanticsMovie · 2019 · 106m · Drama, Romance, FantasyYoung Ada is betrothed to a wealthy man, but her world shatters when her true love disappears at sea during a voyage. Hope returns when a chance event brings them back together.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 25
Sorry to Bother YouMovie · 2018 · 112m · Fantasy, Science Fiction, ComedyIn Oakland, a present-day world unlike our own, Cassius Green, a Black telemarketer, finds a magical key that promises career advancement. This key unexpectedly draws him into a dark and unsettling realm.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 26
American PsychoMovie · 2000 · 102m · Thriller, Drama, CrimeA successful New York investment banker keeps a hidden side from his colleagues and friends: a darker, more violent personality. He increasingly indulges in disturbing, irrational fantasies.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 27
SnowpiercerMovie · 2013 · 127m · Action, Science Fiction, DramaAfter a disastrous attempt to combat global warming decimates Earth's population, humanity survives aboard Snowpiercer, a train perpetually circling the globe. Within its walls, a rigid class system has emerged.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 28
AntzMovie · 1998 · 83m · Animation, Family, ComedyArchie, a worried ant, unexpectedly swaps places with a brave soldier and finds himself torn between love and war. After falling for the spirited Princess Lily, Archie joins a ceremonial parade. But his new life takes a dangerous turn when a ruthless general secretly recruits him to fight a powerful termite army. As Archie experiences battle, the difference between love and conflict blurs in this heartwarming and action-filled story about loyalty, courage, and finding himself.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 29
Trading PlacesMovie · 1983 · 116m · ComedyDuring Prohibition, Atlantic City becomes a haven for lawlessness where politics and organized crime are deeply intertwined. Nucky Thompson, a powerful figure serving as treasurer of the New Jersey town, expertly controls both the legitimate and illegal sides of its operations. A skilled politician and gangster, Nucky thrives in a world defined by corruption and power plays, consistently maintaining his dominance over the city.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 30
MatewanMovie · 1987 · 132m · Drama, HistorySet in 1920s West Virginia's coal region, "Matewan" is a story about the labor movement and the fight for workers' rights. The film follows union organizer Joe Kenehan as he challenges unfair working conditions and powerful corporations. He partners with Few Clothes Johnson, and works with a mayor and police chief committed to improving their town for its workers. Together, they challenge the established order, aiming for a society where people are treated with dignity and fairness, not exploited for profit.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 31
TheoremMovie · 1968 · 95m · Mystery, DramaAn Italian family's privileged life is upended by the arrival of a mysterious stranger. Handsome and charming, he quickly captivates everyone in the household before vanishing without explanation. The family is left questioning his identity and motives as they confront unexpected feelings and desires. This film examines desire, deception, and self-reflection, as the family struggles to reconcile their personal revelations and regain stability.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 32
The Admirable CrichtonMovie · 1957 · 94mLord Loam has progressive views about his household, often treating his servants as equals. His butler, Crichton, firmly believes in traditional class roles. Their world is upended when the Loam family are shipwrecked on a desert island, leaving them with the practical Crichton and the lady's maid Tweeny. The island setting forces a confrontation with their differing views on class.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 33
OkjaMovie · 2017 · 120m · Adventure, Drama, Science FictionMija takes a dangerous stand to stop a powerful global corporation from taking her close friend, Okja – a huge animal.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 34
Land and FreedomMovie · 1995 · 109m · War, Drama, HistoryIn 1936, unemployed British Communist David Carr feels a growing urgency to act as the Spanish Civil War erupts. He joins the Popular Front of Catalonia (POUM) militia, a diverse group of liberals, communists, and anarchists fighting against Franco's Nationalists. During his experiences, Carr begins to realize a disturbing truth: Stalin's allies in Spain are secretly sabotaging the revolution they claim to champion, acting under orders from Moscow. Forced to confront this profound betrayal, Carr navigates a complicated landscape of shifting political loyalties and hidden agendas.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 35
HustlersMovie · 2019 · 110m · Drama, Comedy, CrimeA group of resourceful ex-strippers team up to get revenge on the wealthy clients they once served in a Wall Street nightclub.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.5 - 36
Pump Up the VolumeMovie · 1990 · 102m · Music, DramaMark Hunter, a quiet high school student, finds an outlet for his life by becoming "Hard Harry," a popular pirate DJ broadcasting on shortwave radio. He gains a devoted following among his classmates. But when a student commits suicide, Hard Harry is wrongly blamed for influencing the tragedy, sparking conflict between the school and authorities. The story explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the impact of radio on individuals and their community.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 37
Wendy and LucyMovie · 2008 · 80m · DramaA woman with nothing to her name travels to Alaska hoping to find employment, but her plans are derailed when her dog goes missing during a failed attempt to steal food for it.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 38
ParasiteMovie · 2019 · 133m · Comedy, Thriller, DramaWith no jobs, Ki-taek's family develops an unusual fascination with the affluent Park family, hoping to make a living from them. Their lives become complicated when they are unexpectedly drawn into an unforeseen event.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.5 - 39
ElysiumMovie · 2013 · 109m · Science Fiction, Action, DramaIn 2159, humanity is divided. The wealthy thrive on the pristine space station Elysium, while the majority struggle on a ruined Earth. Secretary Rhodes, a strict government official, fiercely enforces policies keeping Earth people out, protecting Elysium's privileged existence. But those on Earth are desperate to escape. When Max finds himself with nowhere left to turn, he accepts a dangerous mission. Success could not only save him, but potentially bridge the gap between these two vastly different worlds.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 40
Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryMovie · 2005 · 115m · Adventure, Comedy, FamilyA young boy wins a tour of the world's most incredible chocolate factory, guided by its most peculiar candy maker.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0 - 41
In TimeMovie · 2011 · 109m · Action, Thriller, Science FictionIn the near future, scientists have stopped people from aging. To control population growth, time is now the primary form of payment for everything. The wealthy can essentially live forever, while everyone else must bargain for their remaining years. A young man suddenly gains a vast amount of time and becomes a target of the "Time Keepers," a ruthless police force.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0 - 42
Repo MenMovie · 2010 · 111m · Action, Science Fiction, ThrillerIn the future, advanced medical technology allows people to purchase artificial organs to live longer. However, if payments aren't made, the Union dispatches agents to reclaim the organs. Remy is a top agent for the Union, until he himself becomes a recipient of an artificial heart, placing him in the same desperate situation as those he pursues.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.3
