Money Monster (2016)

"Somewhere between George Clooney's dance moves and Julia Roberts' headset, we found a thriller that tries hard but never quite cashes out."

 

Episode Description

In this episode of Movie Memory Machine, Landen and Truman uncover the volatile world of finance and live television with Jodie Foster's Money Monster (2016). With George Clooney as a Jim Cramer-esque TV host and Julia Roberts as his long-suffering producer, the film spirals into chaos when Jack O'Connell's working-class vigilante takes a live broadcast hostage. Together, our hosts dive into the implausibilities, missed opportunities, and undeniable star power of this financial thriller.

 

Major Cast and Crew

• Director: Jodie Foster
• Writers: Jamie Linden, Alan DiFiore, Jim Kouf
• Main Cast:
  • George Clooney as Lee Gates
  • Julia Roberts as Patty Fenn
  • Jack O'Connell as Kyle Budwell
  • Dominic West as Walt Camby
  • Caitríona Balfe as Diane Lester
  • Giancarlo Esposito as NYPD Captain Powell

 

Film Synopsis

Financial TV host Lee Gates (George Clooney) and his producer Patty Fenn (Julia Roberts) face a life-or-death situation when disgruntled investor Kyle Budwell (Jack O'Connell) storms their live broadcast with a gun and an explosive vest. Fueled by the mysterious collapse of a "can't-miss" stock, Kyle demands answers while the world watches. As secrets unravel, Lee and Patty work against the clock to uncover a corporate conspiracy and save their own lives.

 

Episode Highlights

• Breaking down George Clooney's "Jim Cramer meets Dennis Miller" performance.
• The implausible financial mechanics behind the film's central conspiracy.
• Julia Roberts' standout turn as the glue holding it all together.
• How Money Monster reflects (and avoids reflecting) the anger of the Occupy Wall Street era.
• The movie's baffling tonal shifts—boner cream jokes meet high-stakes hostage drama.

 

What’s your favorite financial thriller? Let us know on social media or in the comments—we might feature your thoughts in a future episode!

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