Dumb Money - A Movie Review

This news scandal is enormous.

Dumb Money is a 2023 film that explores the infamous GameStop scandal. Every day people get rich by turning GameStop into one of the world’s hottest companies. Led by social media enthusiast, Keith Gill, all users become wealthy until Wall Street steps in.

I knew nothing about the GameStop scandals, so this movie was a history lesson. Even if you have no prior knowledge of the scandal, no worries, Dumb Money does an excellent job of providing enough context and background information to keep you engaged.

A fantastic ensemble was picked for Dumb Money. Thanks to the cast, they make Dumb Money what it is. When you have an ensemble who knows the assignment, even studying contexts beneath the script then their performances are memorable.

Paul Dano is excellent as Keith Gill. He’s just your everyday average guy who happens to get caught up in all this social media frenzy. Dano did well in his portrayal, especially in some unexpected emotional moments. Everybody on social media is someone.

The supporting cast is equally impressive starring several recognisable faces. Shailene Woodley stars as Caroline Gill, Keith’s wife. Seth Rogan never fails to make people laugh. He did a good job as Gabe Plotkin, the more defeated he becomes as the stock market derails.

The film inserts numerous subplots, keeping the film entertaining with multiple perspectives. This helped me understand the story more, specifically both sides of the argument. America Ferrera has made a big impact on the screen this year. Jennifer takes her chances with the GameStop earnings and has more important words to add to the debates.

Riri and Harmony (Myha’la Herrold and Talia Ryder) got the biggest laughs in my theater. But not as big as Pete Davidson (Kevin Gill)! The story includes perspectives from every generation.

If you thought finance and comedy were an unlikely pair, Dumb Money mixes it splendidly. Similar to what I said in my review of Air, with news/history stories that contain boggles of information about stocks, scandals, and countless arguments, you need to approach it in a unique way so it doesn’t bore viewers. Comedy is implemented throughout Dumb Money.

In his direction, Craig Gillespie does a great job with the film’s swift pacing. He takes time for viewers to get to know these characters. Gillespie kept the story grounded, reminding viewers that everyone involved in this scandal are still people. I liked the heartwarming moments between Keith and his family.

I didn’t know that I was going to travel back to the COVID-19 pandemic in Dumb Money. Taking place in 2020 to early 2021, I was reminded of how we once had to stand six feet apart, wear masks, and all the chaos happening. The pandemic was utilized well in the story.

Dumb Money achieves an effective message about the world of social media and scandals. My head spun from all the information thrown at me. I was not knowledgeable about any of the GameStop scandals. I was lost at certain points.

One potential drawback is that it can be a lot to take in, especially for those who aren't well-versed in finance. Some of the terminology is confusing despite the film's efforts to simplify it. However, this shouldn't deter viewers as the film's primary goal is to entertain which the cast succeeds at.

Dumb Money may not be the film for everyone, but I assure you to take a chance and go see this film. This is history at play. Plus, it is funny and keeps your attention.