Sully: Miracle on the Hudson
Directed by Clint Eastwood
As someone working in the space of leadership development and executive coaching, it’s been a bit of a lifelong mission to define and describe what makes an individual a truly effective leader. So when I was asked to share my recommendation for a movie that made an impact on me, the movie Sully was one that won hands down.
‘Sully: Miracle on the Hudson,’ offers a powerful portrayal of effective leadership in the face of crisis. Though I have watched this movie numerous times, every additional watch reveals yet another powerful lesson I hadn’t discovered before – about life and leadership.
The movie is based on a real-life event and on the outstanding leadership exhibited by a real-life hero Captain Chelsey Sully Sullenberger. Emotionally intelligent, competent, decisive, confident, resilient, humble, caring and with a We rather than Me approach to working; Captain Sully amply demonstrates all the markers of an effective leader.
As the movie unfolds, Sully continues to epitomise what makes a true leader. Whether it is his ability to put others before self through an unwavering commitment to the safety of his passengers and crew or the tremendous presence of mind he demonstrates by making split second decisions under immensely stressful conditions or his willingness to share credit for the success of the water landing and subsequent rescue operation with not only his first officer and crew but with each and every individual who was part of the rescue operation. His every action, decision and reaction are a masterclass in inspirational leadership.
This movie also underscores the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. Post the emergency water landing, Sully faced intense scrutiny, criticism and cynicism from investigative agencies. He remained calm and steadfastly stood by his actions and was ultimately vindicated.
Captain Sully’s actions serve as an inspiring example of selflessness, sound judgement, resilience, humility, competence, grace under fire, collaboration and emotionally intelligent leadership. Do put this on your watchlist!
