Oliver Stone’s 1987 film, Wall Street, remains a cinematic touchstone for its searing portrayal of ambition, greed, and the intoxicating world of high finance. Looking back, it’s striking to see a young Charlie Sheen as Bud Fox, his youthful naivete a stark contrast to the predatory world he’s trying to conquer. Even in today’s landscape of financial dramas, Wall Street stands out, not just for its sharp commentary but for the nuanced performances that elevate it beyond a simple morality tale.
One of the film’s enduring strengths lies in Michael Douglas’s iconic portrayal of Gordon Gekko. While the character could have easily been a one-dimensional villain, Douglas imbues Gekko with a captivating charisma and a disturbing rationale for his avarice. Reportedly, Douglas himself added layers to the character, moving beyond Stone’s initial conception of a purely materialistic antagonist. This depth is evident even in subtle moments, like Gekko pausing to appreciate the dawn over the ocean – a fleeting glimpse of something beyond the relentless pursuit of wealth. This nuance is somewhat undercut by lines like Bud Fox’s frustrated question, “How many yachts can you sail?” or Gekko’s shallow enticement of “Rich enough to have your own jet,” which seem to reduce ambition to mere material possessions, a simplistic view that Douglas’s performance otherwise transcends.
The script, while generally gripping, does have moments of clunky exposition. The scene where Bud Fox, having seemingly achieved ultimate success, stands on his balcony and declares, “Who am I?” feels forced and unearned. Charlie Sheen, while earnest, struggles to deliver this line with conviction, highlighting a slight disconnect in the film’s attempt to depict Fox’s existential crisis.
Furthermore, Daryl Hannah’s character, Darien Taylor, feels underdeveloped and somewhat neglected by the film’s narrative. Stone’s focus clearly rests on the male dynamics between Gekko and Fox, leaving Hannah’s portrayal feeling somewhat adrift. Her motivations and feelings towards Bud Fox remain ambiguous, and her eventual departure from the storyline feels abrupt, as if Stone was eager to return to the central conflict of the “man’s world” of stockbroking. This underwritten female role is a noticeable weakness in an otherwise compelling film.
Despite these flaws, Wall Street is undeniably captivating. The complex financial jargon, while initially daunting, doesn’t detract from the film’s gripping plot. The narrative tension builds steadily from the opening scene and maintains its hold throughout. Michael Douglas’s performance is, of course, central to this, dominating the screen with Gekko’s magnetic presence. However, the film also benefits immensely from the powerful scenes between Charlie Sheen and his real-life father, Martin Sheen, who plays Bud Fox’s father.
Their scenes together are genuinely moving and authentic, particularly considering Charlie Sheen’s later personal struggles and his well-documented complex relationship with his father. The raw emotion and truthfulness they bring to their on-screen dynamic is a highlight of the film. The casting choice, having father and son play father and son, was an inspired and courageous decision that pays off spectacularly, adding a layer of poignant realism to their interactions.
Adding to the film’s strength is a stellar supporting cast. Hal Holbrook provides gravitas, Saul Rubinek delivers his usual reliable performance, and John C. McGinley, seemingly ageless, makes a memorable impression. A young James Spader also appears, alongside Terence Stamp, who, with just a single word like “Mate,” can convey chilling menace. These supporting performances enrich the film’s tapestry and contribute to its overall impact.
In conclusion, Wall Street remains a highly watchable and thought-provoking film. Despite some script shortcomings and an underutilized female lead, the movie’s compelling narrative, anchored by Michael Douglas’s Oscar-winning performance and enriched by strong supporting roles, ensures its enduring appeal. It’s a film that continues to resonate, prompting discussions about ambition, ethics, and the seductive power of wealth, making Wall Street a timeless classic in the realm of financial cinema.
