Boiler Room

In 1999, Seth Davis, a 19-year-old college dropout, runs an underground casino from his Queens apartment. His gambling operation is thriving, earning him quick cash but also drawing the ire of his father, a federal judge.

Desiring to gain his father's respect, Seth accepts a job offer from J.T. Marlin, a brokerage firm. Greg Weinstein, a representative from the firm, scouts Seth's casino and sees potential in him for the fast-paced world of stock trading.

Seth begins his training at J.T. Marlin under the guidance of Greg Weinstein. He learns the ins and outs of the brokerage business, quickly adapting to the environment and the ways of making money.

Seth is introduced to Jim Young, a charismatic executive at J.T. Marlin who shares his insights on accumulating wealth fast. This encounter inspires Seth and sets him firmly on the path toward financial success.

Seth begins a romantic relationship with Abbie Halpert, who is also Greg's ex-girlfriend. This relationship raises concerns for Greg, who feels it could affect their professional dynamic and social circle.

As Seth finds his footing in the lucrative brokerage world, he indulges in a lavish lifestyle filled with extravagant dinners and parties alongside wealthy colleagues. The excitement, however, conceals the underlying unethical practices of the firm.

Seth sells shares to Harry Reynard, a family man, who later faces financial ruin when the stock loses value significantly. This moment marks a pivotal ethical dilemma for Seth as he grapples with the impact of his actions on Harry's life.

Seth discovers the dark operations of J.T. Marlin, which engages in 'pump and dump' schemes. This revelation weighs heavily on his conscience as he realizes the company manipulates stock prices to deceive clients.

In a twist of fate, Abbie turns against Seth, collaborating with law enforcement to enable his arrest by the FBI. This act of betrayal shatters Seth's trust and sends him spiraling into turmoil.

Seth learns that his father, Marty, is implicated due to recorded conversations attempting to protect him. This revelation complicates Seth’s situation, evoking both anger and a desire to shield his family from disgrace.

Faced with dire circumstances, Seth negotiates a deal for immunity in exchange for testifying against J.T. Marlin. His condition to spare his father from involvement adds emotional weight to this life-altering decision.

After his release, Seth prepares to gather evidence against J.T. Marlin before the impending FBI raid. He demonstrates cunning resourcefulness by saving incriminating files onto a floppy disk.

In a bold move, Seth cleverly manipulates the system to return Harry's money while finalizing a critical sale ticket. This desperate act encapsulates his internal conflict and desire to make amends.

As Seth prepares to leave J.T. Marlin, he writes a note to Chris Varick, warning him of the impending raid. This act signifies a fleeting bond formed amidst the chaos that surrounds their lives.

In the ultimate climax, Seth observes the FBI’s arrival as they swarm the parking lot of J.T. Marlin. The moment serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of his choices and the downfall of the lavish life he sought.