Final Reflection

Leadership at the Movies

Movies have always been more than just entertainment—they weave into our experiences, teaching us lessons, shaping our perspectives, and evoking memories. This class has given me a deeper appreciation for movies, inviting me to view them through a new lens. By treating films as texts to be analyzed, we uncovered the traits that define leadership, whether admirable or flawed. I’ve enjoyed looking beyond the surface and seeing the complexities of leadership in different characters and contexts.

My Favorite Movie

Of all the films we studied, The Devil Wears Prada stood out as my favorite. Miranda Priestly isn’t the villain she’s often made out to be. Instead, she exemplifies a leader who demands excellence. Her choices, though harsh, push Andy to discover her own strength. Leadership often requires balancing high expectations with personal growth, and Miranda's character challenged me to rethink what effective leadership looks like. It reminded me that being a great leader isn’t about popularity but about fostering growth, even through tough love.

My favorite childhood movie, Mary Poppins, gave me a new perspective when I rewatched it after this class. As a kid, I enjoyed the magic and whimsy, but this time I couldn't help but focus on the leadership dynamics between Mary and Bert. Their leadership styles are different—Mary is structured and purposeful, while Bert is more spontaneous and carefree. Yet, they complement each other, changing the children’s attitudes and, ultimately, their parents’ perspectives as well. It was eye-opening to realize how leadership can take different forms and how collaboration between contrasting styles can create positive change.

Movie Recommendation

For future semesters, I recommend adding Mona Lisa Smile to the course. Like the films we analyzed, it offers an examination of leadership, societal expectations, and personal growth. The character of Katherine Watson, played by Julia Roberts, leads by challenging norms and inspiring her students to think independently, embodying a leadership style that resonates with me. The film would complement our discussions of leadership by showing the importance of leading with vision and fostering change, even when it’s unpopular.

Conclusion

This semester has shown me that the most memorable leaders, whether fictional or real, are those who rise to challenges, inspire others, and leave a lasting impact. I’ve learned that leadership comes in many forms, and the characters that stick with us often do so because of the obstacles they’ve overcome.