25 Million Pounds (1996): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1996, 25 Million Pounds is a documentary film directed by Adam Curtis, running about 53 minutes. “A documentary detailing the collapse of Barings Bank in the mid-1990s due to the machinations of Nick Leeson.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. 25 Million Pounds details the collapse of Barings Bank in the mid 1990s primarily by a broker called Nick Leeson, who lost £827 million ($1.3 billion) by speculating on futures contracts. The film contextualises the downfall as the history of Barings Bank was one of the oldest and most prestigious merchant banks in Britain, run by the same family for decades with extensive ties to Britain's elites. But in the late 19th century Barings almost went bankrupt after investing heavily in South American bonds, including backing the construction of a sewer system in Buenos Aires. The bank was saved by The Bank of England, but Edward Baring, the head of the bank, was financially ruined and never recovered.

How it landed. With an audience score of 8.0/10, 25 Million Pounds sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch 25 Million Pounds page.

If you liked it. Fans of 25 Million Pounds tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.