Director Martin Scorsese insisted on using the real-life memoirs of Jordan Belfort, leading to setbacks when members of the production team questioned the film's graphic content.

Why it matters: This commitment to authenticity allowed the film to portray a raw and realistic depiction of Wall Street culture, contributing to its critical acclaim and helping audiences understand the excesses of the era.

Margot Robbie was cast as Naomi LaPaglia just a few days before filming began, impressing Scorsese and becoming a standout in the film.

Why it matters: Robbie's last-minute casting added spontaneity to her performance, allowing for genuine chemistry with Leonardo DiCaprio, which became integral to the film's impact.

Jonah Hill improvised many of his lines as Donnie Azoff, including the now-iconic moment when he offers money to Belfort after hearing about the financial scandal.

Why it matters: These improvised moments not only showcased Hill's comedic talent but also enriched the film's authenticity and unpredictability, making his character even more memorable.

The scene where Belfort and Azoff take Quaaludes was filmed using a special effect that made DiCaprio's character appear as if he was physically impaired.

Why it matters: The method used in this sequence enhanced the humor and absurdity of the drug use, allowing viewers to viscerally experience the characters' recklessness while also making a larger statement about excess.

Scorsese employed his trademark long takes and dynamic camera movements during crucial scenes, like the corporate party sequences.

Why it matters: These stylistic choices amplified the chaotic energy of the Wall Street lifestyle, making the audience feel engulfed in the excess and frenzy of the era.

The sheer volume of nudity and explicit language in the film led to hard discussions about the MPAA rating, yet Scorsese embraced it as a point of storytelling.

Why it matters: This choice highlighted the film's unfiltered view of the corruption and indulgence rampant in the financial sector, forcing audiences to confront the realities rather than romanticizing them.

DiCaprio's character's opening speech was filmed multiple times with different tones, showcasing his evolution from naive stockbroker to ruthless businessman.

Why it matters: This nuanced delivery offered insights into Belfort's character development, allowing audiences to witness his moral decline, enhancing the film's critique of capitalism.

Several characters in the film are based on actual people from Jordan Belfort's life, including Matthew McConaughey's character, who mirrored a real-life mentor.

Why it matters: These authentic portrayals added depth and credibility to the narrative, allowing audiences to better understand the influences that shaped Belfort's decisions.

Many scenes were shot in actual offices formerly occupied by stockbroker firms, lending an air of authenticity to set designs.

Why it matters: This choice not only reduced production costs but also immersed actors and viewers alike into the environment of Wall Street, enhancing the realism of the narrative.

The production team sourced real currency for certain scenes, especially during the lavish parties, adding to the film's authenticity.

Why it matters: This realism intensified the portrayal of excess and greed, making the viewer feel the impact of wealth rather than just seeing representations of it.

DiCaprio reportedly spent weeks preparing for the role, including shadowing stockbrokers to understand their mentality.

Why it matters: This commitment paid off, producing a multi-dimensional character that resonated with audiences and critics alike, contributing to nominations and awards for his performance.

A particular scene where furniture is thrown during a party was partly inspired by spontaneous antics from Scorsese's crew.

Why it matters: Such incidents added an unpredictable energy to the film, exemplifying the chaotic lifestyle depicted, and making it a memorable moment in the film.

The distinctive voiceover used by DiCaprio's character throughout the film provides context and insight into his thought processes.

Why it matters: This narrative technique deepened the audience's understanding and connection to Belfort, offering a window into his motivations, which added layers to his moral ambiguity.

The surreal visual effects during the Quaalude scene were crafted to exaggerate DiCaprio's impaired state, employing digital effects for added humor.

Why it matters: This strategic use of effects not only made the sequence memorable but also underscored the absurdity of the drug culture within Wall Street, enhancing audience engagement.

The yacht scene where characters use drugs and party was filmed entirely on location, capturing the surreal atmosphere of excess at sea.

Why it matters: This choice gave the film an exotic backdrop that juxtaposed with the characters' morally corrupt actions, emphasizing the hollowness of their pursuits.

The filmmakers collaborated closely with city officials to gain access to various parts of New York City for filming, effectively capturing the city's vibrancy.

Why it matters: This collaboration offered a genuine representation of NYC during financial boom periods, reinforcing the film's critique of capitalist excitement.

Many scenes were shot with an improvisational approach, allowing actors to explore their characters in real-time.

Why it matters: This approach fostered dynamic performances, rich in spontaneity, and encouraged actors to bring unexpected nuances to their roles, enhancing the film's overall authenticity.

Scorsese chose to shoot the film in a documentary-like style, integrating hand-held camera techniques to immerse viewers in the story.

Why it matters: This stylistic choice created a sense of urgency and realism, mirroring the tension of the financial world and pulling the audience closer to the characters' experiences.

The film's pacing was constructed to reflect the fast-paced nature of Wall Street, with quick cuts and rapid movements.

Why it matters: This pacing forced the audience to feel the adrenaline and stress of the characters' lives, making their chaos palpable and relatable.

Matthew McConaughey's character was originally much smaller but grew in significance after his initial performance.

Why it matters: This development not only showcased McConaughey's talent but also solidified the influence of mentors on Belfort's trajectory, adding dimension to Belfort's backstory.

The film serves as a critique of capitalism, initially spurred by Scorsese's discussions with producers about the ethical implications of the characters' actions.

Why it matters: By framing the narrative as a cautionary tale rather than glorification, the film resonates with audiences who might see parallels in contemporary society.

Scorsese meticulously selected music for each scene, ensuring it matched the tone and style of the moment, including iconic tracks from the 80s and 90s.

Why it matters: This careful curation of music not only sets the mood but also enhances the nostalgic aspect, creating an immersive experience that echoes the excesses of the era.

Several real-life Wall Street figures made cameo appearances in the film, including Jordan Belfort himself during a conference scene.

Why it matters: These cameos cemented the film's connection to reality, making the absurdity and spectacle of the lifestyle more tangible for viewers and anchoring its credibility.