HR Themed Movies and Shows to Watch in 2024

In September of 2022 we published our first top 10 list of movies and TV shows that contain powerful HR themes. Since then, our team of HR nerds have been hard at work, watching more, so that we can bring you more HR joy!

This new list of 10 additional movies/shows for HR professionals to geek out on is not in any particular order and includes some older shows, as well as new ones that have emerged since our last blog on this topic.

So, without further ado, grab some popcorn, turn down the lights, and enjoy!

Star Trek is a groundbreaking science fiction television series that debuted in 1966. Created by Gene Roddenberry, it is set in the 23rd century and follows the interstellar adventures of the USS Enterprise, a starship of the United Federation of Planets. The series explores themes of exploration, diplomacy, and ethical dilemmas through its diverse crew, led by Captain James T. Kirk, Spock, and Dr. Leonard McCoy. It tackles social issues, promoting ideals of peace, equality, and cooperation, and has become a cultural icon with a lasting legacy in science fiction

The Bear is a gripping drama series that delves into the chaotic world of a fine dining chef, Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, who returns to his hometown of Chicago to run his family’s sandwich shop after his brother’s suicide. Struggling with the shift from high-end cuisine to the gritty reality of a small business, Carmy battles to revamp the restaurant while managing a dysfunctional staff, his own grief, and financial pressures. The show portrays the intense dynamics of kitchen life, family bonds, and personal redemption.

Succession is a gripping drama series that follows the Roy family, owners of the global media and entertainment conglomerate Waystar RoyCo. The story centers around the family’s patriarch, Logan Roy, and his four children, who are embroiled in a power struggle for control of the company amidst their father’s uncertain health. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, and ambition are explored against the backdrop of high-stakes corporate politics, familial discord, and the quest for power in the media industry.

Coach Carter is a powerful drama based on a true story, starring Samuel L. Jackson as Ken Carter, a determined high school basketball coach who made headlines for benching his undefeated team due to poor academic performance. Committed to teaching his players the importance of discipline, education, and respect, Carter faces resistance from the team, the school, and the community. The film explores themes of responsibility, perseverance, leadership, and the impact of one man’s efforts to prioritize education over athletics, challenging his players to strive for excellence both on and off the court.

In Good Company is a 2004 comedy-drama film directed by Paul Weitz. The story revolves around Dan Foreman, a middle-aged advertising executive who faces a demotion when his company is acquired, and his new boss, Carter Duryea, a young and ambitious executive. The situation becomes more complicated when Carter begins dating Dan’s daughter, Alex. The film explores themes of corporate culture, family dynamics, and personal growth, showcasing the challenges and unexpected bonds formed in the workplace.

Parks and Recreation is an American mockumentary sitcom set in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. It follows the daily operations of the Parks and Recreation Department led by the eternally optimistic and tirelessly dedicated Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler. The show blends comedy with political satire, showcasing the quirky characters who make up the department and the various townsfolk. Through its run, it explores themes of friendship, ambition, and public service, earning acclaim for its witty humor, strong character development, and positive portrayal of government workers.

The Internship follows Billy McMahon and Nick Campbell, two middle-aged salesmen who find themselves obsolete in the digital world. After losing their jobs, they defy the odds by landing internships at Google, despite their lack of tech savvy. The duo then competes with a group of young, tech-savvy geniuses for a handful of full-time positions. Throughout their journey, they overcome challenges and skepticism, using their life experiences and unorthodox methods to succeed in a technology-driven workplace culture.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a comedic TV series set in the New York City Police Department’s fictional 99th precinct in Brooklyn. It follows the detectives and their newly appointed Captain, Raymond Holt, who is serious and stern in contrast to the precinct’s laid-back demeanor, particularly that of talented but childish Detective Jake Peralta. The show combines crime solving with humor and explores themes of friendship, love, workplace mischief, and the challenges of law enforcement. Its diverse cast and unique characters contribute to its widespread appeal and critical acclaim.

WeCrashed is a dramatization of the rise and fall of WeWork, one of the world’s most valuable startups, and its flamboyant co-founder Adam Neumann. The movie chronicles Neumann’s ambitious journey to transform the traditional office culture with shared workspaces, emphasizing innovation and community. However, it also delves into the internal chaos, mismanagement, and hubris that led to the company’s dramatic downfall. Through the lens of Neumann’s relationship with his wife Rebekah, “WeCrashed” explores themes of greed, ambition, and the perilous pursuit of the American Dream.

Mythic Quest is a comedic television series that follows the operations of a fictional video game studio responsible for producing the popular MMORPG, “Mythic Quest.” The show focuses on the egotistical creator, Ian Grimm, and his eclectic team of developers, writers, and testers as they navigate the challenges of running a successful video game amid office politics, creative disagreements, and personal issues. It humorously explores the dynamics between the staff, their passion for gaming, and the absurdities of the tech and entertainment industries.