Real Value

Real Value is a compelling 2013 documentary that brings together the perspectives of renowned behavioral economist, Dan Ariely, esteemed biofuels pioneer Lyle Estill, and Eric Henry, CEO of TS Designs, on the future of business. Director Jesse Borkowski seamlessly weaves storytelling and personal experiences with academic insights, exploring a modern approach to profitability where businesses thrive by creating real value in their communities.

The primary premise of Real Value is to challenge traditional capitalist notions of success and profit by featuring businesses that demonstrate a fresh understanding of what it means to succeed. These businesses are governed by the principle of creating and maintaining real value — value that is not merely economic, but also social, environmental, and cultural. This concept moves away from the focus on shareholder profits, exploring instead how business can positively impact their local communities and, ultimately, the world.

The film’s subject matter expert, Dan Ariely, is a distinguished professor of Behavioral Economics at Duke University. Ariely is renowned for his work on how human behavior often contradicts standard economic theory, particularly when it comes to rational decision making. His perspective in Real Value offers insights into how businesses striving to create genuine value can align their strategies with behavioral economic principles to promote sustainable success.

Lyle Estill, another primary figure in the film, is the co-founder of Piedmont Biofuels, a community-scale biodiesel project in North Carolina. Through Lyle's perspective, the documentary presents a tangible example of how an environmentally driven enterprise can be economically viable while instigating real changes in terms of sustainable and local energy production.

The last primary figure, Eric Henry, is the CEO of TS Designs – a business known for making sustainable, locally crafted T-shirts. His business model incorporates profit-sharing and creates positive impact by sustainable best practices, reflecting a model of ethical entrepreneurship. The inclusion of his perspective in Real Value exhibits a comprehensive understanding of how social and environmental responsibility go hand-in-hand with profitability and growth.

Throughout the film, these three figures elucidate the concept of real value, acting as true representations of sustainable, socially conscious businesses. The movie illustrates how organizations can redefine success by replacing the conventional, narrow-minded capitalist focus on profits with a more comprehensive, inclusive definition that respects various stakeholders and the environment.

One major strength of Real Value is its balanced treatment of its complex and multifaceted subject matter. The film is not afraid to grapple with difficult questions, making it clear that the path to social entrepreneurship and sustainable business is not always straightforward or easy. Similarly, the film refrains from evangelizing its featured businesses or the concept of sustainable, socially conscious entrepreneurship. Rather, it invites conversation and reflection, encouraging audiences to think deeply about the potential role and impact of businesses in society.

Additionally, the brilliant storytelling of Jesse Borkowski complements the insightfulness of the documentary. He presents a human-centered account of the transformation of modern business; the film's personalities are charismatic and relatable, turning heavy subject matter into something more digestible and personable, reinforcing the community-oriented perspective that these entrepreneurs adopt.

Real Value is not merely a documentary about alternative business models, but an exploration of innovative thinking in the business world. It demystifies the idea of social entrepreneurship and lays the groundwork for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike to welcome the paradigm shift towards sustainability and social responsibility. By presenting current businesses thriving under this model, the film invites the audience to engage with fresh possibilities that redefine success - nurturing the prosperity of people, planet, and profit together.

In conclusion, Real Value is a thought-provoking documentary that galvanizes a revolution in the business landscape. Through personal stories, academic insights, and tangible business models, it presents a compelling case for a future where businesses thrive not just economically, but socially and environmentally. Corporations, entrepreneurs, and consumers who are invested in the future of business will find the film both enlightening and inspiring. It is a 21st-century call to action, depicting the real-world impact businesses can make when they prioritize genuine value over fleeting profits.