Introduction
“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” (2017) is a vibrant and entertaining film that offers more than just action and humor; it provides a rich platform to analyze small group communication. Directed by Jake Kasdan, this adventure-comedy film follows a group of four high school students who are transported into a video game, each assuming a game character with distinct abilities and weaknesses. As they navigate the treacherous world of Jumanji, their survival hinges on their ability to communicate, cooperate, and work as a cohesive unit. This essay explores the dynamics of small group communication as depicted in the film, focusing on concepts such as group formation, roles, norms, conflict, and decision-making.
Group Formation and Tuckman’s Stages
The group in “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” forms out of necessity rather than choice, thrust together by the game’s design. Their formation closely follows Bruce Tuckman’s stages of group development: forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning (Jones). Initially, the characters are in the ‘forming’ stage as they get to know their avatars and the rules of the game. As they begin to confront challenges, the ‘storming’ phase quickly sets in, marked by interpersonal conflicts and struggles for leadership, particularly between the jock, Fridge, and the nerdy Spencer, who are now in the bodies of Dr. Smolder Bravestone and Franklin “Mouse” Finbar, respectively.
As the characters move through the game, they start to appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses, entering the ‘norming’ phase. They establish norms such as open communication, mutual support, and shared leadership. By the time they reach the ‘performing’ stage, the group operates efficiently, utilizing each member’s unique abilities to overcome obstacles. The ‘adjourning’ stage, although not explicitly laid out in the film, is implied as the characters return to their real lives, taking with them the experiences and growth from their adventure.
Roles and Leadership
In small group communication, roles are the patterns of behavior expected of members. The film illustrates this concept through its characters. Spencer, as Dr. Bravestone, assumes the role of the leader due to his avatar’s strengths. However, his insecurities from the real world bleed into his leadership style, causing initial friction. Fridge, as Mouse Finbar, must deal with a supporting role, contrasting his real-world status as a top athlete, leading to power struggles. Martha, as Ruby Roundhouse, embodies the role of the thinker and strategist. At the same time, Bethany, as Professor Shelly Oberon, tackles the role of the communicator and mediator, using her social skills to keep the group cohesive.
As the story progresses, the characters learn to adapt and grow into their roles. Leadership becomes more distributed, demonstrating situative leadership theory, where different members take charge in situations that match their skills (Jones). For instance, Martha leads when strategic combat is required, while Bethany’s character steps up when the group needs to solve puzzles.
Norms and Cohesion
Norms in small group communication refer to informal rules that guide member behavior. The teens in “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” develop norms such as speaking honestly, respecting each member’s contribution, and protecting each other. These norms facilitate group cohesion, allowing the members to function effectively in the game world. Cohesion is evident in scenes where the characters put aside their differences to save one another, showing the strong bond they have formed.
Conflict and Conflict Resolution
Conflict is inevitable in small group communication, and it arises in the film due to personality clashes and the stress of the game. The characters experience both task-related conflicts, such as differing opinions on how to proceed in the game, and interpersonal conflicts, stemming from their pre-existing relationships and insecurities. They navigate these conflicts by utilizing various conflict resolution strategies such as compromising, collaborating, and sometimes avoiding (Jones).
For example, Spencer and Fridge resolve their power struggle by acknowledging each other’s value to the group, leading to a more collaborative approach. Bethany’s initial unwillingness to embrace her new male avatar causes friction within the group. These conflicts reflect the reality that small groups are composed of individuals with unique perspectives and goals, and effective communication is essential for resolving disagreements and maintaining cohesion.
Decision-Making
Decision-making in small groups can follow various processes. The film showcases a mix of decision-making approaches, including authoritarian decisions in high-stress moments, majority rule when there is a clear preference, and consensus when the group takes the time to discuss and agree on a plan. The characters learn that their survival depends on making informed and collective decisions, underscoring the importance of effective communication in decision-making processes.
Conclusion
“Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” provides a compelling narrative to explore the intricacies of small-group communication. Through the characters’ transformation from a disjointed assembly of high school students to a coherent and efficient team, the film illustrates key concepts such as group development stages, roles, leadership, norms, conflict, and decision-making. It shows that when individuals embrace their roles, establish positive norms, manage conflicts constructively, and make decisions collaboratively, the group can overcome even the most daunting challenges. The movie not only entertains but also enlightens, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of small-group communication and the potential for personal growth and achievement within a team context.
Work Cited
Jones, Dr Alex. “The Tuckman’s model implementation, effect, and analysis & the new development of Jones LSI Model on a small group.” Journal of Management, vol. 6, no.4, 2019, pp.23-28.