Commanding

The Weight of Command: More Than Just Orders

Isn't it fascinating how often we’re drawn to stories about leadership? Not just good leadership, mind you, but the complex, messy reality of wielding authority – the burden and the brilliance that comes with it. I've been thinking a lot about the concept of "commanding" in film lately, and it goes way beyond simply barking orders. It’s about presence, influence, responsibility…and often, a whole heap of internal conflict.

Think about The King of Kings. DeMille’s epic isn’t just a retelling of Christ's story; it’s a visual exploration of divine authority and the immense pressure that comes with it. The sheer scale of the production – for its time! – visually reinforces the weight of his position, the expectations placed upon him. It’s not about what he says, but how he carries himself, how he inspires (or provokes) those around him.

That sense of responsibility and the inherent loneliness that can accompany it is something we see echoed in Patton. George C. Scott's performance is legendary for a reason – he doesn’t just play Patton; he embodies the man’s contradictions. The brilliance, the arrogance, the flashes of vulnerability…it all contributes to this portrait of someone carrying an almost unbearable weight on their shoulders. He commands respect (and fear), but at what cost? It's a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t always about being liked – it’s about making difficult decisions and living with the consequences.

Interestingly, even something as seemingly lighthearted as The Wiz touches upon this theme. Dorothy doesn’t just stumble into Oz; she’s thrust into a position of responsibility to find her way home and, in doing so, helps others along the way. The Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion each seek something they lack – courage, heart, brains – but it's Dorothy who ultimately guides them, demanding their trust and inspiring them to confront their own limitations.

And then you have films like The Blue Angels, where commanding isn’t about dictating orders, but about mastering a skill through relentless discipline and unwavering teamwork. The pilots aren’t just flying; they are embodying precision and control, relying on each other implicitly. It's a different kind of command – one born from expertise and mutual respect. Even The Legend of Hei 2 shows this in a more subtle way - Wuxian commands the respect of Xiaohei through his wisdom and guidance.

Even Tora! Tora! Tora!, with its focus on historical accuracy, reveals how miscommunication and flawed command structures can lead to catastrophic consequences. It’s a sobering reminder that true leadership isn't just about issuing directives; it's about understanding the bigger picture and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

Ultimately, films exploring "commanding" aren't just about power dynamics; they're about human nature – our capacity for both greatness and failure when we’re placed in positions of authority. They invite us to consider what it truly means to lead, not just others, but ourselves. And that, I think, is a question worth pondering long after the credits roll.