The long Christmas weekend offered a cinematic escape, and two films, each a distinct journey in its own right, left me with lingering thoughts. One, a dark, adrenaline-fueled saga of loyalty and sacrifice (think KGF vibes) titled “Salaar,” captivated me with its raw intensity. The other, “Dunki,” a heartwarming exploration of belonging and the immigrant experience, unfolded with wit and warmth. Both boasted star power – Prabhas, the pan-Indian sensation, in one, and Shah Rukh Khan, the Bollywood king, in the other. Both films ignited the fan world, sparking debates, rumors, and box-office comparisons. Both were cinematic gems, but it wasn’t the action sequences or witty dialogues that stayed with me – it was the way they rolled the credits.
One film concluded with a grand fanfare for the director and producers, their names adorned the screen in dazzling prominence. The rest of the crew zipped by in a blur of high-speed scrolling text, almost unreadable. This transactional blur felt impersonal and fleeting.
In stark contrast, the other film’s credits unfolded like a slow, deliberate, heartfelt embrace. While the “bigwigs” received their due recognition, the spotlight wasn’t theirs alone. From the cameraman to the costume designer, a tapestry of names unfolded at a respectful pace, each credit an acknowledgment, a silent “thank you”. As I watched, I realized this simple act of visibility spoke volumes about the values behind the film.
The credit sequence, often overlooked, is a fascinating microcosm of the filmmaking process. It’s a window into the contributions of countless hands that weave narrative magic. And the way these credits roll tells a story of its own – a story of leadership and team dynamics.
The blur of unreadable names reflects a certain perspective. One where individual achievements overshadow the collective effort. It whispers a message – the director, and the producer, they’re the sole architects, the masters of the cinematic universe. But the other film whispers of a different philosophy – one where every cog in the machine is acknowledged, where the designer crafting the intricate sets, the grip setting the perfect light and the spot boy fetching endless coffees are seen, appreciated, and valued. It’s a subtle but powerful way of saying – we are a team, a collective force that brought this dream to life.
This, I believe, is a management lesson that transcends the silver screen. In any team, from startups to corporate giants, the true key to success lies in understanding that individual brilliance only shines when amplified by the collective spirit. It’s about creating a culture where every contribution, big or small, is celebrated, valued, and nurtured.
So, the next time you watch a movie, don’t just get lost in the story. Take a moment to appreciate the credits, the silent heroes whose names scroll across the screen. For in their recognition, we learn a valuable lesson – leadership isn’t about hogging the spotlight, it’s about shining it on the team that makes the magic happen. And trust me, when you start leading with that light, the applause becomes deafening, not just for you, but for the incredible team that stands beside you. Now, that’s a box-office success worth celebrating.
