The stern dad stuff doesn't work anymore. You have to be level with the kids, you have to be a nice guy... The authority thing just doesn't work anymore. It's like directing a Chinese film vs. directing an American film. On a Chinese film you just give orders, no one questions you. Here, you have to convince people, you have to tell them why you want to do it a certain way, and they argue with you. Democracy.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Lee contrasts authoritarian directing styles with the democratic persuasion needed in American film sets.
- In plain terms
- American crews need convincing while others just take orders.
- What can you take from it?
- Lead through reason not just authority.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you lead by command or by persuasion?
- How does culture affect your leadership?
Another view
Clear authority is sometimes faster and more efficient.
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