Floored (2009)
In the heart of Chicago’s financial canyons, where pandemonium reigns and reckless ambition rules, lies a world few outsiders truly understand. Floored, a gripping 2009 documentary, delves into the lives of floor traders who once thrived in the chaos of open-outcry trading pits. These traders, like modern-day gladiators, battled for fortunes amidst the cacophony of shouting, hand signals, and adrenaline.
The film introduces us to several Chicago floor traders, each with their unique stories. These traders were the backbone of the financial markets, their livelihoods tied to the physical exchange of commodities and futures contracts. But their world was about to change dramatically.
The electronic trading revolution was sweeping in, threatening to render their skills obsolete. Computers were taking over, and the once-vibrant trading floors faced extinction. The film captures the tension, uncertainty, and nostalgia as these traders grappled with their impending obsolescence.
Among the protagonists, we meet Bobby Ansani, Jeff Ansani, and Ron Beebe—seasoned traders who had weathered market storms. Their camaraderie and resilience shine through as they adapt to the new reality. We witness their struggles, fears, and determination to survive in an industry undergoing seismic shifts.
James Allen Smith’s lens captures the vibrant chaos of the trading pits—the frenetic hand signals, the adrenaline-fueled bids, and the raw emotion etched on traders’ faces. But beneath the surface, “Floored” explores deeper themes: identity, purpose, and the human cost of progress.
As the U.S. financial crisis of 2009 unfolds, the film becomes even more poignant. Smith taps into the vein of millions facing job losses during the recession. The traders’ plight mirrors that of independent filmmakers grappling with changing landscapes—film festivals losing influence, and free internet content saturating screens.
“Floored” transcends its subject matter, becoming a metaphor for resilience in the face of disruption. Ironically, the documentary itself found its way onto video-sharing sites before its official web premiere, a testament to the very forces it portrayed.
In 77 intense minutes, “Floored” immerses us in a world of adrenaline, ambition, and uncertainty. It’s a tribute to those who once ruled the trading floors, their shouts echoing through time—a reminder that progress exacts a price, leaving behind both winners and casualties.
Whether you’re a finance enthusiast or simply curious about the human drama behind market fluctuations, Floored offers a riveting glimpse into a bygone era—one where fortunes hung in the balance, and the trading pits pulsed with life.
