Will Ferrell: Pop Culture

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Will Ferrell is a pop culture icon in today’s world. He is characterized by his nonsensical manner, and awkward demeanor. His current and past blockbuster movies have made him into a comedy mogul by the likes of people all over the map. His public appearances are mostly comical and light-hearted in nature. However, recently the lanky comedian has come out of his comedy shell and begun to dive deeper into American culture. He has given a speech before college graduates, and even advocated for certain politicians. His grey hairs now come with knowledge of the world that he has begun to convey in his art as well as interviews. So why has an older Will Ferrell become such a cultured, altruistic individual? Using Abraham Maslow’s concept of hierarchy …show more content…

This motivation based theory begins with individuals needing important, but basic human needs. This physiological need is the the base of Maslow’s pyramid. The importance of this, is that an individual cannot move up the pyramid until their survival needs are met. Things like food, water, shelter, and sex are a must in order for an individual to be happy. The next step up the pyramid after those needs have been met is the safety needs. This level deals with the feeling of overall safety and having shelter. Maslow believed that building a life that was orderly, structured, and predictable was indicative of safety needs. Maslow also indicates that these two levels normally manifest at a younger stage of development then the next stages. Another important note is how this hierarchy theory is meant to apply to the average person, and that there are exceptions to the rule. Gandhi was arguably self-actualized without eating. In the case of Will, we will assume that he is indicative of an average person. Maslow also seems to note that the needs lower on the pyramid are more important or influential than the needs at the top. These needs are about survival more than psychological …show more content…

Ferrell, has always contended that “for every movie he makes for them, he makes one for himself (Blyth, 2017).” In the interview he talks about his latest box office failure The Deadly Adoption, a movie made for television where he is casted in a drama role. Personally, he loved filming in the movie and wants to do many more movie like it. However, his need for belongingness keeps him in the comedy genre to continue and bring pleasure to other people. In another interview he talks about his bold move to turn down millions and renounce an idea for Elf 2 (Grow, 2013). He stated that despite the fan hype, he just didn’t believe there was good enough content to pursue another movie. Despite the obvious cash incentives Ferrell chose to forgo a mediocre movie. He did so for his fans and himself. In the interview, he states he would rather be proud of what he makes movie wise instead of making a quick buck. This decision shows an obvious independence from culture and environment that is another aspect of Maslow’s self-actualized individual. His ability to internally focus on his decisions and not give into the peer pressure of society shows a true affirmation for his genuine

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