In a world where political divides seem insurmountable, can Hollywood step in and offer a glimmer of hope? This is the question Steven Olikara, a social entrepreneur and commentator, explores in his thought-provoking interview with Dana Taylor on USA TODAY's The Excerpt podcast. Olikara, the founder and CEO of Bridge Entertainment Labs, believes that entertainment has the power to bridge divides, something politics often struggles to achieve. He argues that culture is upstream from politics, and by focusing on storytelling, we can create a shared sense of belonging and dignity, which is essential for a healthy democracy.
Olikara's journey into bridge-building began with an organization of young elected leaders and a personal run for the US Senate. However, it was his work with Bridge Entertainment Labs that convinced him of the power of storytelling. He explains that Hollywood has a unique responsibility to rehumanize Americans across their differences, and by immersing audiences in well-told stories, they can let their guard down and connect to different lived experiences.
One of the key principles Olikara's organization, Bridge Entertainment Labs, follows is the 4 C's: curiosity, complexity, contact, and good conflict. He emphasizes the importance of good conflict in storytelling, where there is an opportunity for movement and reconciliation, rather than dead-end conflict that reinforces division. Olikara uses the example of his group's work on a film, The Elephant in the Room, a romantic comedy that explores relationships across political lines. He highlights the challenge of portraying political differences without falling into the trap of caricaturing characters.
When it comes to addressing deep-rooted conflicts, Olikara acknowledges the complexity of the issues. He believes that while some debates are existential, others are deeply personal, often replacing religion in American society. However, he remains optimistic, arguing that democracy is messy and that the answer to our differences lies in creating a culture of invitation and curiosity. Olikara draws on his own experiences growing up in a diverse community, where music helped him feel seen as a human being, to illustrate the power of pluralism.
Despite the challenges, Olikara is confident that audiences are moving towards stories that are less fueled by outrage or division. He points to the success of films like Forrest Gump and the upcoming Spider-Man film directed by Destin Cretton, which will touch on themes of isolation and building community. Olikara believes that telling more nuanced stories that speak to people's lived experiences can invite a larger audience, creating a viable business model for Hollywood.
In conclusion, Olikara's interview offers a compelling argument for the power of storytelling in bridging divides. He challenges Hollywood to embrace a new narrative of us, one that embodies the values of listening, improvisation, and full presence, as exemplified by jazz music. While the task is daunting, Olikara remains optimistic, believing that by creating a culture of bridge-building, we can find common ground and build a healthier, more inclusive society.
