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.
follow-up
“Abgemacht ist abgemacht”
Agreed is agreed. Once an agreement has been reached, it is binding and does not require further confirmation.
letters, meetings, dialogue
American literature frequently explores themes of communication, progress, and the pursuit of shared goals, all of which require regular updates and follow-up. Whether through letters, meetings, or dialogue, characters in these works exemplify the American cultural norm of maintaining alignment and clarity through frequent contact.
aligned on goals
The Intern (2015). This comedy-drama features a modern workplace where constant communication, feedback, and follow-up are central to the company culture. The characters regularly check in with one another, hold status meetings, and use follow-up to ensure everyone is aligned on goals and responsibilities.
job opportunities
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006). The protagonist’s journey is marked by continual follow-up-on job opportunities, client meetings, and personal goals. The film emphasizes the necessity of staying proactive and persistent to achieve success.
Billy Beane
Moneyball (2011). The management team, led by Billy Beane, holds frequent meetings to review player statistics, discuss strategies, and follow up on recruitment and trades. The film’s structure is built around ongoing check-ins and data-driven updates, emphasizing the importance of regular follow-up to achieve team goals.
Ostpolitik and Inter-German Agreements (1970s)
During the era of Ostpolitik, several treaties and agreements were signed between West Germany and East Germany, as well as with other Eastern Bloc countries. These agreements, such as the Basic Treaty (1972), focused on normalization and were executed with the expectation that both parties would fulfill their commitments without constant follow-up, in line with the German value of reliability in agreements.
Wilhelm Meister
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship frequently touches on the importance of trust, personal responsibility, and the expectation that promises and agreements are to be fulfilled without external enforcement. Characters are judged by their reliability and ability to deliver on commitments.
Effi Briest
In Theodor Fontane Effi Briest the rigid adherence to social contracts and the consequences of breaking them are central. While not about business, the story reflects the broader German cultural expectation that agreements-whether social or professional-are binding and not subject to renegotiation or casual follow-up.