Movies and Media have the ability to shape culture and influence perceptions of people around the world. If you are a negotiation junkie, like me, it is imperative to analyze popular scenes on negotiation from these sources to understand how negotiator’s are perceived. We can learn from those on the big screen about how a good negotiator should, and should not, behave. Check out these popular Movie and TV show clips for insight on Hollywood’s salacious view of negotiation:
1. Jerry Maguire “Show Me the Money”
Tom Cruise shows us the importance of securing your position before entering into a negotiation situation in this famous clip from Jerry Magurie.
2. Firefly “The Negotiator”
This Firefly episode illustrates that knowing your place, and your BATNA, is crucial in a high stakes negotiation. Since the first prisioner didn’t comply, he was made an expamle of. The next victim quickly agreed to the terms the captin layed out for him.
3. The Fifth Element “Send a Negotiator”
Bruce Willis shows the other side the he won’t negotiate with terrorists and instead boldly takes action to win the fight.
4. The Godfather “Negotiation the Don Corleone Way”
Don Corleone’s reputation obviously precedes him in this scene from the Godfather. All he needs to do is sit back, be silent, and wait for the other side to make a better offer before he agrees to anything.
5. Entourage “Ari Teaches Terrance a Negotiation Lesson”—WARNING EXPLICT CONTENT
Ari Gold turns the table on his former mentor, Terrace, and shows him who’s now boss. He exploits private information to get what he wants, while saving $25 Million in the process.
6. Mobsters “The Commission”
Christian Slayter puts his cards on the table to persuade his fellow mobsters to change their business model. Since he was so open and honest, they unanimously vote him in as head of The Commission.
I would add the scene from Fight Club with the guys boss, that was awesome…. though bloody.