The following are examples — from different mediums — of what we at Blatstein Story Group consider compelling stories. Note, these aren’t necessarily business related, but they sure do tell a wonderful story. (For more of my musings on stories, please check out my Twitter feed.)
Film & Television
On the Waterfront
A terrifically well-told story (which has since become cliché). Can’t take your eyes off it, and not only because of Brando’s acting.
Dog Day Afternoon
Moreso than even Scorsese, no one chronicled New York like the late, great Sidney Lumet. A masterpiece of storytelling.
Unforgiven
Satisfying story that haunts throughout. Clint, Morgan and Gene serve the story perfectly.
LA Confidential
Simply amazing story that stays with you for a long time. Haven’t seen anything like it since.
The Wrestler
A beautiful, sad story about an ugly profession.
The Sopranos
Can’t say anything that hasn’t already been said. The bar has been set from here on in.
Show Me A Hero
Wonderful, wonderful small story with big implications. Blew me away.
Literature
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
In my opinion, simply the greatest yarn ever spun. Bypass the movie, read this epic. I’ve read it at least a dozen times and still can’t put it down.
Portnoy’s Complaint by Philip Roth
The story everyone can relate to on some level, which is a feat of storytelling on Roth’s part.
Life by Keith Richards
Who’d have thought Keef was an incredible storyteller? No, seriously, his story is amazing.
Nobody’s Fool by Richard Russo
A simple story that has a profound effect on the reader.
Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy
Not for the faint of heart. McCarthy makes his story so real and so visceral and so intense, you may feel the need to put it down. Brace yourself.
Business Speeches & Talks
Jill Bolte Taylor, well-known neuroatomist
It’s one of the most viewed Ted Talks for good reason; it’s simply an amazing story and one that Ms. Taylor recounts so well.
Arthur T. Demoulas of Market Basket Supermarkets
Heartfelt and resonating. Whether or not there were messages buried in there, he delivers a story.
Sara Blakely of Spanx
A born storyteller, it’s no wonder Spanx is practically a household name.
Sir Ken Robinson, author and education advisor
It’s been around, but it still sends shivers up the spine in a good way.