While this may not be a technical battle, Babe the Pig's victory during the final herding competition in 1995's Babe certainly qualifies as a situation where the hero wins by fluke. During the scene in question, Babe, who throughout the film is attempting to transcend his destiny of ending up on Farmer Hoggett's dinner plate, is taken to compete at a herding competition after having displayed great skill at herding the farmer's sheep at home. A massive problem arises however when the sheep simply choose to ignore him. This completely stymies what was Babe's typical technique of asking the sheep politely if they would mind moving this way or that. The little pig is only saved by the kindly intervention of Hoggett's sheepdogs Fly and Rex, who run back to the farm and ask the sheep for the secret password that will prompt the competition sheep to listen. After receiving the phrase of "Ba ram you" from Hoggett's flock, Babe proceeds to herd the sheep successfully. This password prompts the sheep to perform flawlessly, winning the competition for Babe, and the heart of Farmer Hoggett in the process.
Adam Mohrbacher has been afflicted with an obession for film since his earliest memories. In addition to his work with WhatCulture, Adam has been a contributor with Filmophilia.com, FilmMonthly.com and Examiner.com. You can also check out his personal blog here: adammohrbacher@wordpress.com.
A devoted fan of all film genres and styles, Adam gets equally giddy over the sensitive, existential musings of Ingmar Bergman, and the brawny brilliance of Arnold Schwartzenegger. He loves fish tacos and misses the work of Heath Ledger and Jack Lemmon on a daily basis.
