What is going on with TV ads these days? I realize in advertising, it's important to look for new and innovative ideas. Still, there are tried and true tricks of the trade where applicable. Repetition, a catchy jingle, even humor. But when have we entered the era of shock value? Did I miss something?
What exactly is Listerine telling me about their product when I have to watch people making idiotic faces in the mirror with their cheeks all poofed out making all sorts of gross, squishy mouth sounds?
I find it particularly disgusting when I am plopped down in front of the television eating lunch, and in mid-bite having the distinct pleasure of listening to the sounds of someone sloshing liquid around and spitting it out. It's a bit akin to eating a turkey sandwich while listening to a joke about vomit. And has anyone else seen that Dannon commercial where the woman is standing in mid-aisle slurping down yogurt because it's so "irresistible"? Another winner. I actually try and change the channel if the remote is at hand.
Don't get me wrong, I've watched enough television in my life to be far from the faint of heart (or stomach). I just don't can't wrap my head around how shock-value in the most common advertising has become so effective? After all, it must be effective, or there wouldn’t be so many companies doing it. I'd love for someone to explain to me how featuring long armpit hair sells cell phones (Boost Mobile), or how lifting up a man's noise and drinking out of his face (Mentos; ad was yanked) is supposed to help sell candy?
Oh... and to the Brita Water people: Pouring water from a pitcher into a glass isn't representative of the sound of refreshment. It mostly just sounds like peeing.
Whatever happened to selling products and services based on quality and merit? I wonder what kinds of tactics we can expect to see in the upcoming year. Maybe companies will just come straight out and threaten your family. "Eat Burger King or we'll send a creepy mascot to come to your house and scare the hell out of your children!!"
Oh, wait. I guess they're already doing that now, too.
I really need to just break down and get a DVR.
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