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No doubt the workplace, technology, and the entertainment industry are catering to the Millennial generation. Their generalized on-demand attitude is demanding a cultural acknowledgement, something the Oscars took notice of in 2011 when they tapped 20-something popular actors James Franco (127 Hours, for which he was nominated for Best Actor in 2011; Spiderman 1-3, Pineapple Express) and Anne Hathaway (The Princess Diaries 1-2, The Devil Wears Prada, Ella Enchanted) to host the 83rd Annual Academy Awards.
While their lifestyles are ushering in a cultural revolution, "Millennials" also come with some cultural baggage. In 2013 Time Magazine, a storytelling tour de force, captured this polarizing dynamic best:
But the Super Bowl of the storytelling world went all in on the magical Millennial hand. Was this a good play for Oscar? You be the judge:
It seemed not. Franco and Hathaway's “Millennial...what-ehverrr" approach took on a more awkward tone, hindered by poorly-timed back and forths and lame punchlines. This was not Hollywood magic in the slightest.
Takeaways:
If you choose a theme for your presentation, be consistent and true to its essence. Inconsistency can come off as sloppy and bland.
Consider avoiding sensitive topics. For example, while lesbianism is not a sensitive subject matter, the “lesbian” bit, became sensitive when it was a too drawn out, taking cheeky to awkward.
If you’re going to tell anecdotes or jokes, make sure you’re timing is spot on—poor timing can ruin the joke or mood.
Visit my site for more information about my coaching and creatives services: www.kreitercreatives.com
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