January 2025
The concept of money is more than just a means of exchange; it is a deeply ingrained societal construct that reflects power, freedom, and identity. Over time, the portrayal of wealth and money in media has played a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions. From inspiring ambition to exposing the darker sides of capitalism, shows like Shark Tank, The Wolf of Wall Street, and Squid Game illuminate diverse facets of our relationship with wealth. By analyzing how these popular media portray money, we can uncover the broader cultural narratives they reinforce and challenge.
The hit show Shark Tank has become synonymous with entrepreneurial dreams. It showcases inventors and small-business owners pitching their ideas to a panel of wealthy investors, hoping for funding and mentorship. At its core, Shark Tank embodies the idealized notion of the American Dream: that success is attainable through hard work, ingenuity, and the ability to seize opportunities.
The show promotes the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve wealth if they have a marketable idea and the right mindset. However, this portrayal glosses over systemic barriers such as access to capital, education, and social networks that are often critical to success. While Shark Tank inspires viewers to think creatively and take risks, it also reinforces the myth of meritocracy—the idea that success is purely a result of individual effort, ignoring structural inequalities.
Moreover, Shark Tank dramatizes the pursuit of profit, often prioritizing financial returns over ethical considerations or community impact. This focus aligns with capitalist ideals, portraying wealth not only as a measure of success but as the ultimate validation of one’s worth and ideas.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street offers a cautionary tale wrapped in glamor and hedonism. Based on the true story of stockbroker Jordan Belfort, the film explores themes of greed, excess, and moral decay. Its vivid depiction of a life fueled by money and power—complete with yachts, drugs, and luxury—paints a complex picture of wealth as both exhilarating and destructive.
Critics and audiences have debated whether the film glorifies or condemns the pursuit of unchecked wealth. While it exposes the fraudulent schemes and ethical compromises underpinning Belfort’s rise, it simultaneously captivates viewers with scenes of extravagant indulgence. This duality highlights society's fascination with wealth, even when it comes at great moral and social costs.
The cultural impact of The Wolf of Wall Street extends beyond its narrative. The film sparked a wave of admiration for Belfort’s audacity and confidence, with some viewers idolizing his persona despite the consequences of his actions. This reflects a broader societal tendency to valorize wealth, often overlooking the means by which it is acquired.
The South Korean phenomenon Squid Game takes a dystopian approach to the concept of money, portraying it as a force that can strip individuals of their humanity. Contestants drowning in debt compete in deadly games for a massive cash prize, risking their lives in a brutal commentary on economic inequality and desperation.
Unlike Shark Tank or The Wolf of Wall Street, Squid Game offers little glamor in its depiction of money. Instead, it portrays wealth as a cruel and distant lifeline, attainable only through extreme sacrifice and moral compromise. The show critiques capitalist systems that perpetuate inequality, trapping individuals in cycles of poverty and exploitation.
The popularity of Squid Game reflects a growing global awareness of economic disparity and the psychological toll it takes on individuals. Its stark portrayal of the human cost of financial systems resonates with audiences who grapple with debt, job insecurity, and rising living costs. By stripping money of its allure and exposing its darker consequences, Squid Game challenges viewers to question the fairness and sustainability of the systems they live within.
Media serves as a mirror and a mold for society’s views on wealth. Shows like Shark Tank inspire ambition and entrepreneurial spirit but risk perpetuating unrealistic expectations. Films such as The Wolf of Wall Street reveal the seductive yet destructive nature of excess, while Squid Game exposes the harsh realities of economic inequality.
Together, these portrayals reflect the multifaceted nature of money. They inspire, caution, and provoke, offering audiences a spectrum of narratives that both shape and reflect societal attitudes. While they entertain, they also encourage critical thought about the systems and values that define our world.
As viewers, it is essential to engage with these portrayals thoughtfully, recognizing their influence on our aspirations and beliefs. By critically examining the stories we consume, we can better understand our relationship with money and the societal forces that shape it.
