Using the “Worst Movie Ever!” to Explore Leadership Skills

“Worst Movie Ever!” is an approachable and engaging class exercise for teaching leadership competencies in an interactive way. Originally designed by undergraduate students at the University of Central Missouri, this activity connects poorly designed movies with leadership characteristics, encouraging students to discuss ineffective leadership and draw parallels to familiar cultural artifacts. Through brainstorming and debate, students collaboratively evaluate toxic leadership behaviors. This session, offered in a hybrid format, will lead participants through the exercise and create opportunities to discuss how experiential exercises, particularly those connected to pop culture, can offer a fun, engaging approach to management education.