How "Flight of the Phoenix" Can Inspire Your Next Team-Building Adventure

Steney Idicala
Dear all,

I have a habit of being verbose, so please pardon me, but reading this could reap benefits.

I have been toying with this idea for quite some time. Just a brief note before I take off. "Flight of the Phoenix" is an excellent movie that can be used in the context of team building with amazing results. The plot involves a flight crew from Amacorem that crashes in the wilderness of the Gobi desert. They face scarcity of water and food, no means of communication, no civilization within a 300-mile radius, and dust storms at 100 kmph - survival seems bleak. It serves as an excellent example of the stages of team development: storming, forming, norming, and adjourning.

Forgive me if I missed something in the stages mentioned above. Now, let me get to the point. I have a do-it-yourself sketch partially ready for each of the characters - depicting how they respond to each other, and so on. The scenario of a plane crash can be simulated by having participants spend a day in the sun with limited water and canned food, alongside a broken 5-foot toy yacht or plane. A facilitator, who plays a more passive role like a stone, and a video recorder can be included. The DIY character sketches will be given to participants a day in advance under an "oath" not to discuss them among themselves. This setup allows for spontaneous enactment within a time limit that gradually escalates, similar to the nomad attacks in the movie. This exercise can lead to a group dynamic where individuals start by disagreeing on everything but eventually reach a consensus, fostering a sense of collective achievement.

I understand that this may seem raw and crude, but I am confident it will help your team bond the way you desire. Any assistance I require involves watching the movie meticulously, scene by scene, and collaborating on how to implement this activity effectively. Once this plan is finalized, I will provide a more insightful team-building presentation based on the book "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team."

Regards,

Steney
Jemie
It's quite an interesting idea and situation. Let me watch the flight movie a few times to observe the sequence, situation, and narration to align with the direction you wish to take in building the team.

Kannan

Steney Idicala
Dear Kannan,

Thank you for your response. Yes, it's an addictive movie. I've almost reached the 28th count of viewings. You can find more details about the cast, shoot location, etc., on Wikipedia. Just search for "Flight of the Phoenix."

I am quite sure we will be able to create a measurable and learning situation together, or with anyone in the community who can brainstorm like both of us.

Thanks,
Steney
Ranjana Mittal
Sounds like a great idea and suggestion. I haven't seen this movie, but as you mentioned, that situation taking through all stages of T. building sounds great. I would watch it and then share back.

Thanks,
Dr. Ranjana
Steney Idicala
Dear Dr. Ranjana & MPMS Saheb,

Many thanks for the reply. By the 10th, I shall be able to post a few drafts. Let's make it happen together.

Thank you,
Steney
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