Monday, 16th of January 2012
A lesson from The Artist
Imagine if you would for a second the stony silence that first greeted the team behind the film The Artist when they went in search of funding. In an age of HD, 3-D and starlets in double D, the elevator pitch must have been jaw-dropping. Their plan was audacious. A film in black and white. OK. Widescreen, erm no. A silent move. What? Are you mad?
And yet, The Artist is a shoo-in for Best Film at the Oscars and, by most critics ratings, deservedly so. It's a beautifully acted, well-paced piece of storytelling that would bring a smile to the most hard-hearted viewer.
Despite appearing such an unlikely hit, watching The Artist you're quickly entranced by its abundant charms — so much so that you forget that you're watching a 'throwback'. However, signing up for the film must have been a real leap of faith for a lot of people involved.
But that's the point. The Artist stands out — not just because of the undoubted professionalism of its writers, actors and director— but because it took a risk.
I think there are lessons here for all of us, in life and in business. Following the herd is not always the best option, particularly if you want to get noticed. But, if you are going to go against the conventional wisdom, you have to be good. No, good won't cut it. You have to be outstanding.
