Michael Gambon’s performance as Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series was one of those that made every fan miss the late Richard Harris more with each passing scene.
It is unclear why Gambon’s portrayal of Dumbledore veered so far away from the spirit of the character. My guess is that it was largely an attempt at differentiation. So, instead of getting to see Dumbledore’s characteristic wisdom and calm, we were left with a weird combination of grumpiness and impatience.
A great example of unhelpful differentiation.
It is like the various brands of security scanners at airports. Some require you to take off electronics and shoes, others don’t. A recent experience involved seeing a new brand pilot “cutting edge” technology that seemed to flag one in every two bags.
Again, unhelpful differentiation.
Differentiation is only useful when it results in a positive outcome.
No point differentiating for the sake of doing so – in our products, in our work, and in our life.
