Capital

Capital is a 2012 movie about the world of high finance, directed by Costa-Gavras and based on the novel of the same name by Stéphane Osmont. The film follows the ambitious CEO of a powerful French bank named Marc Tourneuil (Gad Elmaleh), who is thrown into a ruthless corporate world full of deceit, greed, and dangerous power plays.

The movie opens with Tourneuil being unexpectedly promoted to the top spot at Phenix Bank after the former CEO suffers a heart attack. As the new leader of one of France's most prestigious financial institutions, Tourneuil is tasked with navigating the tumultuous waters of high finance and ensuring that the bank remains at the top of its game.

As the story unfolds, Tourneuil must navigate through a series of complex and sometimes dangerous power struggles within the bank as he jockeys for position against his rivals. Despite his intelligence and ambition, he finds himself surrounded by colleagues who are just as determined to succeed at any cost. Among them are Dittmar Rigule (Gabriel Byrne), an American hedge fund operator hoping to take over Phenix Bank, and Nassim (Liya Kebede), a beautiful top model and board member who has her own agenda.

Even as Tourneuil settles into his new role, he must face a myriad of challenges that threaten the bank's stability and his own rise to power. These include corrupt officials, shady deals, unscrupulous clients, and even assassination attempts. Through it all, Tourneuil remains determined to succeed and become the ultimate king of the financial world.

One of the central themes of the movie is the moral ambiguity of the world of high finance. The characters are all focused on making money and advancing their own careers, often at the expense of others. Tourneuil is no exception, but his gradual realization of the true cost of his ambition sets him apart from his colleagues. He becomes more and more disillusioned with the financial system and its corrupt practices, and begins to see the larger societal implications of his actions.

The movie is shot in a slick, stylish way that emphasizes the glamorous and superficial aspects of the financial world. The luxurious offices, designer clothes, and expensive cars are all on display, as are the high-profile business meetings, cocktail parties, and fashion shows. But as the story unfolds, the glamour fades away and the darker side of the financial world begins to emerge. The camera work and lighting are used effectively to create a sense of tension and unease, particularly in the scenes involving violence and illicit activities.

The performances in the movie are all solid, with Gad Elmaleh standing out as the conflicted and complex Tourneuil. He brings an intensity and depth to the character that make him both sympathetic and repulsive at the same time. Gabriel Byrne is equally impressive as the ruthless and calculating Rigule, while Liya Kebede imbues her character with a quiet strength that belies her beauty and style.

In conclusion, Capital is a gripping tale of ambition, corruption, and the darker side of the financial world. It offers a cautionary tale for those who seek to climb the corporate ladder at any cost, and serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of greed and power. With its stylish visuals, strong performances, and engaging storyline, it's a must-see for anyone interested in the world of finance or the human psyche.