United States – Page 71 – understand-culture

“Follow up on”

To check in or take action after an initial agreement or meeting, ensuring continuity and accountability.
Example: “Let’s follow up on this discussion in our next meeting.”

Speed (1994). When a city bus is rigged with a bomb that will explode if the speed drops below 50 mph, police officer Jack Traven must make quick, high-stakes decisions to keep everyone safe. The plot is driven by the need for constant, rapid action, with little time for perfect planning.

runaway train

Unstoppable (2010). This thriller about a runaway train showcases characters making urgent, on-the-spot decisions to avert disaster. The plot emphasizes that in crisis, fast action is paramount, and solutions can be refined as the situation evolves.

quick thinking

The Apprentice. Contestants are thrown into high-pressure business challenges where quick thinking and immediate action are rewarded. Success often depends on making fast decisions, adapting on the fly, and learning from mistakes, rather than waiting for perfect solutions. The show’s format reinforces the idea that speed and resilience are more valuable than perfection.

Harvey Specter

Suits. In the fast-paced world of corporate law, Harvey Specter and his colleagues frequently make bold, rapid decisions to outmaneuver opponents and seize opportunities. The show emphasizes that waiting for perfect information can mean losing the case or the client, while fast decisions-even if risky-can be corrected or spun to advantage.

speed is critical

Billions. In the high-stakes world of finance, characters like Bobby Axelrod make split-second investment decisions, often with incomplete information. The series demonstrates that speed is critical for success, and that errors can be fixed or leveraged for future gains.

Clinton 2012

Bill Clinton’s speech at the 2012 Democratic National Convention nominating Barack Obama for a second term as president is considered a masterpiece in persuasion.

Ted and Joanna

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979). The custody battle between Ted and Joanna Kramer is marked by repeated legal negotiations, court appearances, and check-ins with lawyers and the judge. Each party must follow up on legal filings, court orders, and parental responsibilities, showing how ongoing communication and status updates are essential in high-stakes agreements.

self-image

Monsters, Inc. (2001). Mike and Sulley’s successes and failures at work are closely tied to their friendship and individual identities. Feedback from bosses and peers is always personal, influencing their motivation and self-image .

“Ok, let’s go”

D-Day Landings (June 6, 1944). General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s decision to launch the Allied invasion of Normandy was made under immense pressure, with weather and intelligence uncertainties. Despite imperfect information, Eisenhower famously gave the go-ahead with the words “OK, let’s go,” understanding that waiting for perfect conditions could mean missing the opportunity entirely. The bold, timely decision was crucial to the success of the operation and is often cited as a defining example of American decisiveness and willingness to act quickly.