
TED Talks Daily How to challenge conventional wisdom -- and change any industry | How to Be a Better Human
Mar 12, 2021
Franklin Leonard, founder and CEO of The Black List, revolutionized Hollywood by challenging the status quo and advocating for diverse storytelling. He discusses the significance of questioning established beliefs and how it can lead to innovation across industries. Leonard highlights the financial viability of inclusivity in film and stresses the role of grassroots movements in promoting representation. Additionally, he emphasizes kindness and personal connections as essential drivers for positive change in the film landscape.
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Flawed Conventional Wisdom
- Conventional wisdom about screenwriting merit was flawed, relying on biases.
- This affects representation and opportunities for diverse stories and talent.
The Blacklist's Impact
- Franklin Leonard's Blacklist highlighted unproduced screenplays loved by industry insiders.
- This led to previously unsellable projects gaining recognition, being produced, and winning awards.
Diversity and Profitability
- The film industry operates on flawed conventional wisdom, leading to bias.
- The Blacklist's success demonstrates that diverse films are both artistically and commercially viable.

