8 Documentaries Every Manager Should See
Essential Films for Leadership Growth
Documentaries offer unique insights into various aspects of business, leadership, and management. By exploring real-world stories and experiences, these films provide valuable lessons for managers seeking to enhance their skills and understanding.
Watching carefully selected documentaries can broaden a manager's perspective and inspire new approaches to problem-solving and team leadership. From financial crises to creative entrepreneurship, the range of topics covered in management-focused documentaries is vast and informative. These films serve as powerful educational tools, complementing traditional learning methods and offering fresh viewpoints on complex business issues.
1) "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" by David Gelb (2011)
"Jiro Dreams of Sushi" chronicles the life and work of Jiro Ono, a renowned sushi master in Tokyo. At 85 years old, Jiro continues to refine his craft daily at Sukiyabashi Jiro, his 10-seat restaurant in a subway station.
The documentary explores Jiro's relentless pursuit of perfection in sushi-making. It showcases his meticulous attention to detail, from rice preparation to fish selection.
Jiro's relationship with his sons is a central theme. The film examines the pressure on his eldest son to eventually take over the restaurant and maintain its prestigious three Michelin star rating.
The documentary offers valuable insights for managers on dedication, continuous improvement, and the challenges of succession planning in a family business. It demonstrates how passion and perseverance can elevate a craft to an art form.
More information on "Jiro Dreams of Sushi"
2) "The Fog of War" by Errol Morris (2003)
Errol Morris's documentary "The Fog of War" offers a compelling look into the mind of Robert S. McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense. The film explores McNamara's experiences during World War II and his role in the Vietnam War.
Through a series of interviews, McNamara reflects on critical moments in 20th-century American history. He shares insights on decision-making under pressure and the complexities of modern warfare.
The documentary won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2004. It presents valuable lessons on leadership, ethics, and the consequences of policy decisions in high-stakes situations.
Managers can learn from McNamara's candid reflections on his successes and failures. The film encourages critical thinking about organizational strategy and the long-term impacts of executive decisions.
"The Fog of War" serves as a thought-provoking case study in crisis management and the challenges of leadership during turbulent times.
More information on "The Fog of War"
3) "Inside Job" by Charles Ferguson (2010)
"Inside Job" exposes the truth behind the 2008 global financial crisis. This documentary examines the root causes and consequences of the economic meltdown that cost over $20 trillion and led to millions losing their homes and jobs.
Charles Ferguson, an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker, conducts extensive interviews with financial insiders, politicians, and journalists. He uncovers the complex web of relationships between Wall Street, academia, and government that contributed to the crisis.
The film provides a comprehensive look at the financial industry's practices, including the creation of risky derivatives and predatory lending. It also scrutinizes the role of credit rating agencies and regulatory bodies in the lead-up to the crash.
Ferguson's work serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for greater accountability and reform in the financial sector. The documentary offers valuable insights for managers about the importance of ethical business practices and the potential consequences of unchecked greed.
More information on "Inside Job" (IMDB)
4) "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" by Morgan Neville (2018)
This documentary explores the life and philosophy of Fred Rogers, creator and host of the beloved children's television show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." Director Morgan Neville, known for his Academy Award-winning work, presents an intimate portrait of Rogers' impact on American culture.
The film delves into Rogers' commitment to kindness, empathy, and understanding. It showcases his ability to address complex topics with children in a gentle, respectful manner.
Neville's documentary features interviews with those who knew Rogers personally, including Yo-Yo Ma and cast members from the show. These insights provide a well-rounded view of Rogers' character and mission.
"Won't You Be My Neighbor?" demonstrates the power of compassionate leadership and effective communication. Managers can learn from Rogers' approach to nurturing human potential and fostering a positive environment.
The film premiered at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and received critical acclaim for its heartfelt portrayal of Rogers' life and work.
5) "The Great Hack" by Karim Amer and Jehane Noujaim (2019)
"The Great Hack" explores the Cambridge Analytica scandal and its impact on data privacy. The documentary examines how personal data became a valuable commodity in the digital age.
Directors Karim Amer and Jehane Noujaim present a compelling narrative through key figures involved in the scandal. They focus on the lawsuit filed by David Carroll, a media professor, which serves as a starting point for the film's investigation.
The documentary delves into the intricate world of data exploitation and its far-reaching consequences. It reveals how advances in technology and data analysis enabled large-scale social experiments and targeted political campaigns.
"The Great Hack" offers viewers a glimpse into the complex relationships between social media, personal data, and political influence. The film raises important questions about privacy, consent, and the ethical use of personal information in the digital era.
Through interviews and expert insights, the documentary highlights the need for greater awareness and protection of personal data. It serves as a wake-up call for managers to consider the ethical implications of data usage in their organizations.
More information on "The Great Hack"
6) "Exit Through the Gift Shop" by Banksy (2010)
"Exit Through the Gift Shop" is a documentary that offers a unique perspective on the world of street art. Directed by the elusive artist Banksy, the film follows Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant in Los Angeles with an obsession for street art.
Guetta's journey begins with his cousin, the street artist Invader, and leads him to encounter numerous renowned graffiti artists. His constant documentation of these encounters eventually brings him face-to-face with Banksy himself.
The film takes an unexpected turn when Banksy encourages Guetta to create his own art. This decision leads to the emergence of Mr. Brainwash, Guetta's artistic alter ego, and raises questions about authenticity in the art world.
"Exit Through the Gift Shop" provides managers with insights into creativity, self-promotion, and the fine line between genuine talent and manufactured hype. It challenges viewers to consider the nature of art and success in the modern world.
7) "13th" by Ava DuVernay (2016)
"13th" is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. Directed by Ava DuVernay, the film takes its name from the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
The documentary examines how the amendment, which abolished slavery, contains a loophole allowing for involuntary servitude as punishment for crime. DuVernay argues this clause has been exploited to perpetuate racial inequality through the criminal justice system.
"13th" features interviews with scholars, activists, and politicians, presenting a comprehensive look at the evolution of racial oppression from slavery to the present day. The film analyzes policies such as the War on Drugs and mandatory minimum sentences, showing their disproportionate impact on communities of color.
DuVernay's work challenges viewers to consider the long-term consequences of these policies and their role in shaping modern society. For managers, "13th" offers valuable insights into systemic inequalities and their far-reaching effects on workforce diversity and social dynamics.
More information on "13th" (IMDB)
8) "The Social Dilemma" by Jeff Orlowski (2020)
"The Social Dilemma" explores the hidden impacts of social media on society and individuals. The documentary features interviews with former executives and employees from major tech companies who share insider knowledge about the industry's practices.
Orlowski's film reveals how social media platforms are designed to be addictive and manipulative. It examines the algorithms that keep users engaged and the data collection methods used to target advertising.
The documentary highlights concerns about privacy breaches, mental health issues, and the spread of misinformation. It presents these problems as inherent features of social media business models rather than unintended consequences.
"The Social Dilemma" offers a critical perspective on the tech industry's influence on politics, relationships, and personal well-being. It serves as a wake-up call for managers to consider the ethical implications of technology in both professional and personal contexts.
By presenting complex issues in an accessible format, the film encourages viewers to reassess their relationship with social media and digital technology.
More information on "The Social Dilemma"
The Role of Documentaries in Leadership Development
Documentaries offer powerful insights into real-world leadership challenges and successes. They provide managers with opportunities to observe different leadership styles and develop emotional intelligence through authentic stories and experiences.
Understanding Leadership Styles
Documentaries showcase diverse leadership approaches in action. Managers can study how different leaders navigate complex situations and motivate their teams. Films like "Inside Job" expose corporate leadership failures, highlighting the importance of ethical decision-making.
Documentaries also present inspiring examples of effective leadership. "Invictus" demonstrates Nelson Mandela's ability to unite a divided nation through his visionary approach. These real-life stories help managers identify and adapt successful leadership strategies to their own contexts.
By analyzing leaders' behaviors and outcomes in documentaries, managers can refine their own leadership philosophies and techniques.
Enhancing Emotional Intelligence
Documentaries cultivate empathy and self-awareness in managers. They offer intimate portrayals of leaders facing difficult choices and personal struggles. This emotional connection helps viewers develop a deeper understanding of human behavior and motivation.
Films exploring team dynamics, such as "A League of Their Own," illustrate the importance of recognizing and managing emotions in group settings. Managers learn to read nonverbal cues and adapt their communication styles to diverse team members.
Documentaries also challenge viewers' perspectives, encouraging critical reflection on their own biases and assumptions. This self-examination is crucial for developing the emotional intelligence needed to lead effectively in today's complex work environments.
Key Themes Explored in Management Documentaries
Management documentaries delve into the complexities of leadership and organizational dynamics. They offer valuable insights into real-world challenges faced by executives and teams.
Decision-Making Processes
Management documentaries often highlight the critical role of decision-making in business success. They showcase how leaders navigate uncertain situations and weigh various options. These films frequently present case studies of both successful and failed decisions.
Some documentaries explore data-driven decision-making approaches. Others focus on intuitive leadership styles. Many films demonstrate the importance of gathering diverse perspectives before making major choices.
Ethical considerations in decision-making are another common theme. Documentaries may examine how leaders balance profit motives with social responsibility.
Conflict Resolution Strategies
Effective conflict management is a key focus in many management documentaries. These films illustrate various approaches to handling disagreements within teams and organizations.
Some documentaries showcase successful mediation techniques. Others examine the consequences of unresolved conflicts. Many films emphasize the importance of clear communication in preventing and addressing disputes.
Documentaries often explore cultural differences in conflict resolution. They may present strategies for managing conflicts in global teams. Some films also address the role of emotional intelligence in defusing tense situations.
