Training can get dull. Even as the instructor, you know that your trainees are nodding off during endless presentations and barely skimming their required reading. Certainly, there are crucial messages you need to communicate to your team so they can function effectively and productively in the workplace ― but if you can impart those ideas in a fun and engaging way, you will find your workers remembering your lessons for years to come.

Movies are a great way to train and keep your employees’ attention. A number of films include lessons that align perfectly with the goals of the workplace. During your next training session, try turning on one of the following flicks to see what your team can learn.

Boiler Room

There are dozens of films that show the dark side of business ― that some people will do anything, no matter how heinous, to secure a fortune. However, “Boiler Room” concludes with a different message: Making money at the expense of others is not worth it. In addition to this one, there are dozens of lessons for you and your team to learn, such as the importance of passionate leadership and the motivation of an attainable goal.

Cocktail

Few movie buffs haven’t seen this Tom Cruise classic, which follows young Brian Flanagan in his endeavor to open a new bar. Though this flick is undeniably fun, there is actually much to learn from Flanagan’s business mistakes and triumphs. In particular, your team should notice that despite Flanagan’s initial devotion to business classes and books, he only begins to succeed once he gets behind the bar and learns what his staff and customers actually need.

Flash of Genius

This flick is based on the true story of Bob Kearns, the inventor of intermittent windshield wipers. When Kearns brought his invention to the Big Three automakers in the 1960s, all of them rejected his idea ― but began installing the wipers anyway. Kearns’ story is important because it highlights the necessity of receiving recognition for brilliant ideas. Managers should acknowledge and appreciate their employees’ work, even though their creations belong to the company. Happy employees will remain with your business for years to come and will keep returning with a positive attitude.

The Pursuit of Happyness

It’s impossible not to root for unlucky single dad Chris Gardner in this emotional retelling of the real-life entrepreneur’s troubled beginnings. He struggles to secure a job while managing to care for his five-year-old son, but through perseverance, problem-solving and a bit of luck, Chris Gardner finds the “happyness” he is pursuing, teaching your team that hard work is eventually rewarded. They will also realize that success isn’t immediate but something to keep working toward.

Rocky

Rocky Balboa begins his boxing career as the underdog, but through his passion and commitment to training and improving, he works his way into the big fight, earning fame despite his eventual loss. Even though this movie has little to do with business, your team will appreciate Rocky’s display of sportsmanship, learning that it doesn’t matter that he loses ― it matters that he plays the game. He learns much from his failures, and employees should also look for lessons from their mistakes.

Rudy

Another story based on true events, “Rudy” tells the story of Daniel “Rudy” E. Ruettiger, who wants nothing more than to play football for Notre Dame. Unfortunately, he lacks the size, skills and grades to immediately earn a spot; fortunately, he has passion and persistence. This flick proves that following your dreams means refusing to accept all the “nos” that stand in your way, which should inspire your team to push a little harder every day.

Startup.com

Released in 2001 at the end of the dotcom bubble, Startup.com is a fascinating documentary that follows a startup called GoveWorks.com. Despite the excitement surrounding GoveWorks’ launch, the company struggles to overcome obstacles that can plague any business at any stage: in-house fighting, unchecked growth and poor money management. Watching this real-life flick, your team will see how communication, cooperation and other soft skills impact a business, ultimately ensuring its success or failure.

Tommy Boy

“Tommy Boy” is an inspirational movie for people who struggle to keep a small business afloat. Chris Farley plays Tommy Callahan, the inheritor of a family business that is slowly sinking, and the plot follows him as he tries and fails to save his father’s legacy. In between the laughs, you and your team should notice that Tommy never gives up, which is the most important lesson in business. He continues to look for every possible avenue to keeping the company going.

Amy studied sociology and human development in Arizona. With her knowledge in these areas, she creates informational pieces focused on technology and education.