If you’re like me, reading one more article about COVID-19 is likely to make your head explode. As a result, for my April newsletter, I thought I’d do something a little different. Admittedly, I was inspired after making my way through all seven episodes of Tiger King (don’t judge), and I began thinking about how Hollywood has expertly capitalized on the fact that there really are some terrible jobs/bosses/co-workers out there. So, on the off chance that you’ve been yearning to return to the land of cubicle farms, burnt coffee, and semi-private restrooms, I present to you my top five movies that will make you appreciate working from home:
5. Horrible Bosses – The title says it all. This movie does not quite reach the cult status of the remaining four, but you have to love a gloriously over-the-top Jennifer Aniston reminding us that women can be sexual harassers, too. Plus, Jason Bateman and a balding Colin Farrell desperately in need of some D&I training? Count me in.
4. 9 to 5 – No list of workplace comedies is complete without the original. Yes, it’s a little dated, but it’s the one that started it all. Handsy boss? Check. Brown-nosing co-worker who eavesdrops on bathroom conversations? Check. Actualized revenge fantasy involving rat poison and a garage door opener? Check and check.
3. The Devil Wears Prada – If you are looking for an example of workplace bullying behavior, look no further. Miranda Priestly sets the bar. Add a naïve-yet-determined heroine, aloof-yet-neurotic co-workers, and a setting in New York’s high fashion industry, and you have movie gold. You may not be one stomach flu away from your goal weight, but I’ll bet that you never look at your blue sweater the same way again.
2. Office Space – I know what you’re thinking. And yes, I almost put this movie in the number one spot. After all, it’s the king of office comedies and eerily right on the mark. Who hasn’t had a run-in with the Bobs, coveted certain office supplies, or fantasized about parking in the boss’s spot? But this list isn’t limited to comedies, so I’m gonna need you to grab your flair, finish up those TPS reports, and read on for my number one pick, m’kay?
Drumroll, please…
1. Die Hard – No other movie says “bad day at the office” like the action-packed Die Hard. Hear me out. First, all the employees are forced to attend an office holiday party on Christmas Eve. Who does that? Then they’re held hostage by some West German terrorists. The worst luck ever! And finally, their best chance for rescue is a wise-cracking New York police detective who must walk across broken glass barefooted to save them. Oh no! Yes, the premise is slightly ridiculous, but it’s a whole lot of fun. It also launched the movie careers of both Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman and deserves to be watched for that reason alone.
Well, that’s my list. Agree? Disagree? Have some movies to add? Let me know in the comments below. In the meantime, cue up these classics, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the rest of your time at home.
Want to get your annual harassment training done now? I’m currently conducting training for all sizes of companies virtually. Drop me a note if you’re interested in learning more.