Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street

TV review by Stephanie Snyder, Common Sense Media
Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street TV show: Poster

Common Sense says

age 15+

Language, smoking, white-collar crime in dark docuseries.

Netflix Reality TV 2023
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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street is a true crime docuseries that recalls the scandal that rocked the financial industry and ruined many lives in the mid-2000s. The documentary depicts the life and career of Bernie Madoff, portraying him as both a motivated and successful businessman and the maniacal mastermind of the largest Ponzi scheme in history. It accomplishes this with dramatic reenactments alongside commentary from writers, law enforcement personnel, former employees, victims, and others who were involved in the scandal. There's some use of strong language like "s--t." As was acceptable in the 20th century, people are seen smoking inside office buildings. The series is dark and packed with information; it's best for teens and adults and is likely best digested when viewed in small portions.

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What's the Story?

MADOFF: THE MONSTER OF WALL STREET depicts the events that led to the takedown of the largest Ponzi scheme in history. It takes viewers through Bernie Madoff's humble beginnings, establishing his unquenchable desire to succeed and disprove those who doubted him. Through dramatic reenactments and analysis from employees, victims, and those who studied and interacted with Madoff himself, the docuseries chronicles his rise to renown in the finance world, and his demise to notoriety for financial fraud.

Is It Any Good?

This captivating account and analysis of one of the most notorious crimes in history reminds viewers that honesty is the best policy. Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street, with its dark filters and slow-motion dramatic reenactments, conveys the gravity of the crime that Bernie Madoff executed over the course of decades. The episodes are fast-paced and loaded with information, so binge-watching is most likely not the best way to watch. But the issues uncovered – from ethics and oversight to greed and fraud – are sure to expose (and potentially reshape) thoughts on white-collar crime and its impact on society.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about integrity in Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street. Madoff is portrayed as smart and motivated, but he lacks integrity. How? Do you think the other employees are also dishonest? Why or why not?

  • How does the documentary use light and slow motion to convey the darkness of the subject matter? How do the comments by authors, journalists, former employees, and victims demonstrate the magnitude of this crime? Do you think the dramatic reenactments add to the documentary or take away from it? Why?

  • What is the difference between white-collar crimes and blue-collar crimes? Do you think one is worse than the other? Why?

TV Details

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