Movies and films are widely recognized as valuable pedagogical tools. Motion pictures provide concrete and illustrative examples of important concepts and can improve students' understanding of course material as well as increase their satisfaction with courses. Online learning is becoming an increasing dominant facet of higher education. Online learning is preferred by many students for various reasons, many related to the flexibility and format of the course work; students can engage in learning when it is convenient for them. While the flexibility of time and format is a major appeal of online learning, it also serves as a major impediment. Student retention is a significant challenge in the online learning environment. Research shows that students in online courses are more likely to feel a sense of "disconnectedness" and miss having a common shared experience with other students. As a result, students in online courses are more likely to withdraw from the course because they miss the opportunities for shared experiences. This paper explores the use of movies in online and hybrid business courses for the purpose of providing a shared experience around which students can discuss course content. This paper describes the process for creating a shared student experience and creating the related discussions among students centering on particular concepts illustrated in the selected films. The students view the particular movies, and then, with either a lens of management and leadership strategies, or of business ethics concepts, discuss specific questions within their team, the whole class, and then again with their team. This paper discusses the value of that shared movie experience and discusses the need for additional pedagogical strategies to establish and promote online opportunities for student interactions.