Movies are a great way to see leadership in action. Whether they are depicting real events or following an original story line, watching how leaders form teams, overcome obstacles, and ultimately forge groups of people who are able to work together to accomplish great things can be both entertaining and inspiring for any leader.
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The movies here are ones I have seen on my own, or in some cases, watched and discussed in great detail at various leadership schools I have attended over the years. I found all of these to be greatly entertaining as well as immensely valuable as learning tools. So put some popcorn in the microwave, maybe grab a pen and some note paper, and dig into these classics of leadership.
The documentary features runners, but it’s evident from the very beginning that this movie isn’t about winning so much as it is about how a leader forms a team. When done well, as Coach ably demonstrates, winning is a natural by-product of solid team leadership.
This movie is packed with powerful lessons-by-example as we watch Coach Newton deal with discipline issues, disabilities, injuries, and losses of key runners even as the the championship meet looms near. Especially powerful to me were how he intentionally built his team from the bottom up instead of top down, his creative use of ritual to strengthen his team’s culture, and and the way he he develops the leaders from within the team.
I liked this movie all the more because it’s not a screen play with actors, but a documentary with an actual leader showing us how it’s done. While I do not agree with all the techniques he uses, he’s clearly doing enough things right that we should be paying attention, and maybe even taking notes.
Long Green Line tops my list of great ways to spend 90 minutes and come away entertained, motivated, and a little bit wiser about what it takes to lead well.
The tough, opinionated Boone faces one challenge after another, but because he is a man of character and strength he is gradually able to build trust and grudging respect among the players, and eventually within the school.
As a leader, you will find yourself going to school on important skills like building trust, conflict management, communicating intent, and solving seemingly intractable problems. Remember the Titans
Problem solving, team work, and poise under pressure feature prominently in this excellent movie and make it a great watch for leaders to absorb and learn from. Apollo 13 
We used several of the scenes in this movie at leadership schools I have been to as examples of decision making and problem solving while in leadership positions. From General Buford’s initial defense of the town on day one, to Colonel Chamberlain’s inspired leadership that saves the Union left flank on day two, to Pickett’s epic charge on the final day, Gettysburg
Gradually winning their trust and taking the team to the state championships, the movie is a dramatic and entertaining portrayal of team development, caring leadership, and the importance of clear vision. Hoosiers
Miracle 
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Credit: Popcorn picture
