Speak Your Mind

Coming Together

2010-05-05T15:11:00.000-07:00

Wieden + Kennedy London Honda

I love that you see each part of the car come together in this ad. You see every little thing from the screws to the windows that goes into making the Honda. I can only imagine how much effort and time had to be put into this ad which speaks to the quality of the ad. It is the most creative car ad I have ever seen.

Crispin Porter Bogusky Coca Cola

There are few different aspects of this ad that come together. The voices go from being one voice to many, making one universal voice just as the ad goes from being of one person to many. What I love about this ad is all of the different cultures and races of people coming together. It shows how universal and iconic Coca Cola is. This song works perfectly with Coca Cola's theme of happiness as do all of the people with smiles on their face.

Fallon Minneapolis

This ad for Sony Bravia flat screens is amazing. All of the balls bouncing together has such a cool visual effect especially because they are bouncing through such ordinary scenery like streets and gutters. The ad highlights the color of the television and this ad does that perfectly because your attention is on the balls the entire time. The coming together from a couple balls to hundreds of balls was also an amazing visual effect.

Socially Irresponsible Advertising

2010-05-05T14:47:00.001-07:00

Grey Amsterdam Breast Cancer

This campaign is for Pink Ribbon Magazine raising awareness about breast cancer. While the cause that this ad is promoting is a great and the motive itself is socially responsible, the ad is not. I think it's inappropriate to have a series of naked boobs in a Breast Cancer ad. If I had or knew someone that had breast cancer I would be offended that this is the aspect that the media wants to highlight: boobs. Not hope, not caring for each other, not sticking together...but boobs. Breast Cancer is shocking all on it's own, it doesn't need boobs to add additional shock value.

Draft FCB Taco Bell Drive Thru Diet

You have got to be kidding me. The fact that Taco Bell is actually trying to convince consumers that if they go through the taco bell drive thru and eat taco bell on a usual basis they will lose weight is one the most ridiculous ideas I have ever heard. It insults the consumers intelligence to think that they would believe this ad and it is a huge lie which shines badly on the product. This campaign is terrible.

Leo Burnett Chicago Disney

There should never be a Disney commercial titled "Pillow Talk". While I think the ad has a cute sentiment towards the end I think it's inappropriate that an older couple in bed together talking about their marital issues is for Disney. Disney is targeted at children and if a child wouldn't like or understand this ad. They would be much more likely to get the wrong idea about this ad before they got the right one.

Socially Responsible Advertising

2010-05-05T01:41:00.000-07:00

I think socially responsible advertising is important. Good advertising gives the consumer something to think about and gives them credit for being intelligent. It also is conscious of the society it is advertising to.

AMV BBDO London- Act on CO2

This ad was to raise awareness about climate change and its connection to CO2 emissions. People are shown doing every day things and their carbon footprint is a visual, real footprint on the floor. This was to show people that even their small every day actions have an effect on the climate change. Most people are aware of the environmental changes that are happening but they don't take it personally and see how they can make a difference. This ad shows people what they can do in their every day life to help. I this this is an important issue and I like that the ad takes a more artful approach rather than an informative one. It is not talking at the consumer or scolding them, it is showing them.

This ad is for Honda's newer, cleaner, quieter diesel engine. Not only is this ad socially responsible because it helps the environment but also because the sound that a bad diesel car makes is annoying in general so it is socially conscious as well. The animation is great and the song is very catchy to the point where it takes an entire day to forget the words "Hate Something Change Something" out of your head. It is a good thing that this ad is memorable because it is something thats important. The hate for old diesel engines brought about this ad so this ad and change so it is promoting change and action as well.

LatinWorks Get Active

Obesity is a growing problem in America. This ad tries to inspire parents to make their children be active. The campaign shows Superman and Barbie, figures that young girls and boys look up to, overweight. Using these icons that are recognizable everywhere in the world makes the ad effective. Children need to be outside riding bikes or playing sports, not always inside playing with barbies and action figures.

AMV BBDO London

2010-05-01T01:17:00.000-07:00

Heinz Ketchup

This ad for Heinz ketchup is great. It shows people how important Heinz ketchup is to their meals and the different, unique ways people use it. Whether it's patting or scraping it out, spreading it all over the plate, or using it for a hamburger you know it's Heinz ketchup.The most amazing thing about it is that the bottle isn't in the ad the entire time and you still know what it's for. The Heinz ketchup bottle is like the Absolut Vodka bottle, they are so iconic that you don't have to see the bottle to know what the ad is for. The music compliments the ad well and the tag "It has to be Heinz Ketchup" with the bottle is the perfect ending to the ad.

Taxi Montreal

2010-04-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Mini Cooper

This ad reminds me so much of the minimalist approach that Volkswagon took. It is highlighting the fact that it is small, something that isn't always considered positive, and making it a good thing. It is focusing on the car and not using sex or a GPS system to win over consumers and that makes it appealing. In the over exposed, fast moving culture we are a part of it is refreshing to see ads made that don't try to shock us and that focus on the small things. Small should stop being viewed as a small thing, especially in terms of a cars when the environment is in trouble, and this ad is a step in the right direction.

Wongdoody LA

2010-04-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

Gossip Girl

This Gossip Girl campaign encompasses the show perfectly. All it takes is a scandalous picture and a tag line like "a nasty piece of work" to make the week until the next episode practically unbearable. Not only does this drive people who watch Gossip Girl religiously like me crazy but it attracts new viewers from the same age group. If I saw this ad and hadn't watched Gossip Girl before, I would definitely start. I think Gossip Girl and Wongdoody have a bright future with this campaign.

Venables Bell & Partners SF

2010-04-27T23:32:00.000-07:00

Orville Redenbacher Popcorn

This campaign for Orville Redenbacher is clever. They found a way to take on the competition without being tasteless or immature. Their competition is other snack foods and in their ads they show how much larger their portions are while still managing to be 100 calories. They make Pac Man out of popcorn eating the small, fewer amount of crackers. Weight is a growing concern driving people to eat less but this ad shows them that they can still eat just as much and consume the same amount of calories they would if they ate only a couple crackers. The ads are simple and to the point but aren't boring. I would look at this ad and automatically know what it was trying to portray even before reading the copy.

Mother NY

2010-04-25T13:10:00.000-07:00

Target

These Target billboards were put up after Labor Day weekend in Times square and would later be turned into bags. The ads are very bright and colorful which catches your attention and the fact that they take up this much space in a place as busy as Time Square makes them seem important. Target is one of the brands that doesn't need to put words or products on their advertisements, just that Target sign and you know exactly what it's for and I think thats a rare accomplishment that most brands strive for. All of these designs are fun and appealing and if you saw this ad and then saw it on a bag you would be more inclined to buy it because you recognize it. I like that they are doing something new with their advertising that engages the consumer and obviously spreads the brand.

Droga5 NY

2010-04-23T22:40:00.000-07:00

Puma

I had a smile on my face the entire time I watched this ad. This commercial titled "Hardchorus" was released February of this year for Puma posing the question what do you do when Valentines Day falls on Match Day? They made it possible to send this video to people to show them how you felt on Valentine's Day. This ad connects soccer and romance by having soccer players and fans sing love songs that they would sing in the stands to the team. The large group of men is so into it that you can't help but love every minute of the ad. They made the ad interactive by allowing viewers to dedicate it to someone through email or facebook with their own personal messages. I think men can relate to this ad because they know the familiar feeling of having to choose between their girlfriend or wife and watching the game with their friends. The truth behind it is what makes this ad so great and with any luck gets someone out of trouble on Valentine's Day.

David&Goliath NY

2010-04-23T22:28:00.000-07:00

Kia

I like this Kia "A New Way to Roll" campaign. It's simplicity is what make's it work. The rows and rows of robots, sheep, and pawns make the car stand out and seem special and different. It is breaking the social norm and doesn't look like everything else. You automatically know where to focus your attention in this ad and I like that it's straight to the point. This ad reminds me of a lot of the Volkswagon ads in the way that it doesn't dwell on all of the different appliances and advantages of the car it just shows that it's something special in itself and in it's simplicity. Things like robots are controlled by other people and obedient and this car is different and new and breaks the repetition.

Secret Weapon LA

2010-04-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

Jack In The Box

I have come to realize that fast food restaurants that have a face to identify, like McDonald's Ronald McDonald and Jack In The Box's Jack, with are much more memorable. I think this spot is hilarious. It is a common known fact that 24 hour fast food restaurants are a late night destination for stoners and that's what makes this ad so funny. The best part by far is the end when Jack tells him to order thirty tacos. The largest target market for fast food is teenagers and I think this ad would appeal to them. Not only is the subject of the ad a teenager but the humor is boyish as well. Not to mention, tacos for 99 cents are completely in the teenage and college budget.

Rethink Vancouver

2010-04-22T01:35:00.000-07:00

Orkin Pest Control

I think this is a clever campaign for Orkin pest control in Canada. Their copy "pests have nowhere to hide" is portrayed by all of the objects and appliances in the room virtually being wallpaper leaving no hiding places. They are highlighting their reliability and efficiency. There is an ad like this for each room of the house, showing that there are no limits and that they can get the job done anywhere. I like the thoughtfulness of the ad. There are no people or pests, the picture and copy say it all and I like that about these ads. They give the viewer credit for their intelligence and don't throw a picture of what they do or what they catch in their face. They make a clean, simple, to the point ad.

Modernista Boston

2010-04-20T17:58:00.000-07:00

Cadillac

I remember seeing the Cadillac ad with Kate Walsh on television for the first time, and hearing the line "The real question is when you turn your car on does it return the favor?" and thinking what a great line that is. This campaign was a good move for Cadillac because I always associated Cadillac with old women and this campaign is sexy and edgy. By using Kate Walsh and a seductive script it brings youth and excitement to a brand that has been around for a long time and because of that attracted a much older crowd.

Cramer-Krasselt Chicago

2010-04-17T17:41:00.000-07:00

Carona

I think this Carona campaign is very successful because every time I think of Mexico and the beach, Carona is the next thing that comes to mind. It has developed such an environment that comes along with it that makes it so much more desirable. When I look at this ad, I want to be on the beach. They always use the bottles to incorporate the beach, for example this one has a full beer as high tide and an almost empty one as low tide. When someone asks me to list beers, Carona is one of the first and when I'm in Mexico I order one just because of ads like this and that is an amazing effect for an ad to have. As much as I like other ads, I have never been influenced by one as much as Carona. Definitely one of my favorite campaigns.

Doner Detroit

2010-04-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

Minute Maid

This spot was made to satisfy the demand for nutrition as well as shed new light on Minute Maid as a product. When I think of Minute Maid I think of the classic orange juice and I think it was good that they refreshed their brand image. This spot isn't a masterpiece but it's a good laugh and the slogan "Put Good In.Get Good Out" is catchy and easy to remember. I can say for myself that I remember seeing this ad on tv. In watching this ad and thinking about the other ads I have talked about on this blog I have come to realize that it is much easier to make an artistic and powerful print ad than a commercial. That is why most commercials are light and funny like this one.

Richards Group

2010-04-15T16:44:00.000-07:00

Kiwi Shoe Polish

I think these ads are hilarious. The copies are very clever and thoughtful. It doesn't over sell the product and acknowledges the fact that shining your shoes is a minor part of a man's appearance by comparing it to other minor but important things. In saying lines like you will raise your chances from a 0 to 0.001 for dating a super model they are almost making fun of their product but in a charming, endearing way. It isn't saying this is the most amazing product in the world or exaggerating the effects of it like all of the Axe ads where women are drawn to men that wear Axe like magnets. This ad is simple and right to the point and finds the good in the product without making something up.

BBH London

2010-04-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

KFC

I have mixed feelings about this ad. While I appreciate the creativity of the handprint making the shape of a drumstick, I have trouble getting past the fact that the handprint is grease from KFC chicken. The thought of licking my fingers after eating KFC kitchen makes me want to cringe. However, I do appreciate the fact that this isn't a picture of a giant bucket of chicken. The copy "Finger Lickin' Good" once again makes me want to cringe but I like the message that even when you're finished eating you still don't want to stop, you just can't get enough. Despite the grease, this is definitely one of the better fast food ads I have seen. It's difficult to market Fast Food and I appreciate the fact that it's different and that it's not trying to be somehting its not and hide the fact that its greasy food unlike Taco Bell's ridiculous Drive Thru ads.

Wieden + Kennedy Portland

2010-04-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

Levi's

I really like this Levi's campaign. It does take the form of the stereotypical jean ad where there is a topless model wearing only the jeans but it doesn't carry the same sex factor. The person in the ad is raw and real and that is what Levi's wants it's jeans to be. The jeans she is wearing are baggy and dirty, not form fitted. She is in the middle of a field walking, not in a club or on top of a guy. She is in nature and is free. The ad is adventurous and inspiring. The copy "All I need is all I got" has this strong go with the flow appeal to it. It makes you want to get outside and explore and even though Levi's is a label the superficiality of fashion and brands seems to go out the window. This ad is refreshing in more ways than one.

Dentsu China

2010-04-12T15:50:00.000-07:00

I think this ad is very artful. The image of a samurai and the copy "So sharp that it cuts iron sheets like paper" makes this ad very specific to China and not very universal but the company it is advertising for is specific to China so it works. It is a very creative advertisement for scissors. It is obviously a very intricate design which speaks to the quality of the scissors and the precision in which they work. I have to say I would have no idea what this ad was for with or without the copy if the scissors weren't in the right corner but I still really like the ad.

Kirshenbaum Bond

2010-04-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

TAB Energy Drink

These ads make women feel good about themselves, and inspire them to be fun and exciting. The copy's are cute and witty and encourage women to go out and have an all nighter at a club and dismiss clothes that don't fit as ugly because they are "fabulous". The women in the ads are young and pretty and are drinking Tab out of a martini class. I think this is a clever way to market a woman's energy drink. The ads themselves have a lot of color and energy. They translate well to their target market, young women. When I saw this ads I wanted to go out and have fun.

Cliff Freeman & Partners

2010-04-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

Sauza Tequila

I think this a creative way of saying that the tequila is good quality without blatantly saying that. It's edgy but it works because the ad is for alcohol. If I drove by this the copy "your mom just bought a thong" would catch my attention very quickly and probably make me laugh. That being said, I don't think it is directed at the right age group. Thinking about your mom in a thong is something teenagers would get embarrassed and joke about, not people that are over twenty one. I also don't think it's placement is appropriate. A child driving by could see this ad and get the wrong idea. It is too controversial of a product and ad to have in such a public place. To put this in a men's magazine on the other hand would be ok.

VitroRobertson

2010-04-07T14:55:00.000-07:00

Asics

This ad promotes more than just running. There are two runners and the copy "lacking the breath to speak has a way of making you a better listener" shows that running can be a way to form relationships as well. Finding someone that likes to do what you do. Many believe that if you slow down and listen to someone and don't talk to fill the space you can really get to know someone and I think that's what this ad is trying to convey. There is a clear focus on the shoes in the ad, promoting Asics but there is more to the picture as well making it pleasant to look at. The people also look very fit and have desirable bodies which would inspire people to run.

Crispin Porter Bogusky Singapore

2010-04-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

Burger King

...Really? It comes as no surprise that this ad was pulled the day after it was released. I am all for being clear and getting a point through but this ad is so suggestive that a sandwich is not where your mind goes when you look at this ad. It sells sex, not a sandwich. This ad is clearly targeting men but a girl is eating it. In short, this ad is inappropriate and is the reason so many people dislike advertising. There are so many great ads in the world but they are overshadowed by, for lack of better work, crap like this. You would expect more from an agency that worked on the truth campaign.

McKinney

2010-04-07T14:06:00.000-07:00

Above the Influence

I have always wondered who was behind the above the influence campaigns and now I know. I think this ad is really creative. The copy "What's the worst that could happen" with the photo of two bugs trying bug spray is very clever. The obvious message is that drugs can kill you. The picture is so bizarre that you definitely take a couple seconds to look at it. I have always liked the above the influence campaign. I think it is an important issue to address that effects a lot of teenagers. Peer pressure is a constant force in a young adults life and I like that one of the bugs is handing it to other bug portraying that fact. The ads have always been good at portraying that without sounding like a Drug-Ed class. The target market is teenagers and the ads are always for a young audience.

Euro RSCG Chicago

2010-04-07T13:20:00.000-07:00

Juvenile Protection Association

I think this ad is really powerful. The arm that is made up of demeaning words like moron and fool is both artistic and has a large impact on the person looking at this ad. They are obviously trying to pull some heart strings with this photograph but it is appropriate because of the cause they are raising awareness for. It is a serious issue being advertised so it deserves attention. If I saw this ad in a magazine I would take a second look and pay attention. Nobody likes seeing a little boy cry but in some cases in takes showing someone something that they don't want to see in order to create change. This ad combines reality with art.

Arnold Worldwide

2010-04-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

Reese's Perfect

I think these ads are adorable. I was immediately attracted to them for various reasons. The obvious one is that the candy looks delicious but I also really like the format of the ad and the fact that the entire ad stays true to Reese's colors. The best part is obviously the copy though. They are clever and witty and they make you laugh and in turn happy which is a good feeling to associate with candy. They are entertaining. You can create your own perfect Reese's ad on the Hershey's website which demonstrates what a hit this ads are. Definitely one of my favorite ad campaigns.

Team One

2010-04-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

NHL Fan Network

Team One made this campaign for the NHL Fan Network. I think it's funny that they brought the hockey game to fans doing things that have nothing to do with Hockey such as making out on the couch or disarming a bomb. It shows the full spectrum of people that are fans of hockey. I wouldn't have known what this ad was for just by looking at it though, it could be for so many different things and I think that's its flaw. A copy would help solve that problem

The Kaplan Thaler Group NY

2010-04-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

Trojan

I think the roller coaster is clever, implying that sex and an orgasm is as exciting as a roller coaster ride with the copy 'make one each special'. It definitely is straight to the point with the word orgasm making up the entire ad which I think would make people take a second look at it. There is nothing incredible about this ad but Trojan is a hard client to have. It does it's job in getting attention and appealing to a certain target audience.

Fallon London

2010-04-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

Sony Cybershot

I think this is a good ad for a camera. It gives the consumer all of the power, and doesn't tell them what to shoot or a picture of something commonly considered beautiful. The pictures are the person, as said in the copy "you are what you shoot". People don't really get digital cameras like the Cybershot to take amazing photographs, they get them to have memories. It is visually artistic and engaging. I can't say that I think this ad is particularly original because I know that I have seen camera ads like this before but I like it and appreciate its message and artistic quality.

Leo Burnett New Delhi, India

2010-04-02T15:54:00.000-07:00

McDonald's

This ad is thoughtful. It is for the opening of a new McDonalds so it showing a a new born baby. The Ronald McDonald face makes it quickly associated with McDonalds, being that he is one of the most well known figures in the world. I really like that this ad isn't a picture of a hamburger advertising cheap prices like most McDonald's ads. The other great thing about this ad is that the copy isn't necessary this ad could translate to anyone with any culture or language. The baby doesn't have a race, being that it is painted white to look like Ronald McDonald and is very clearly states the message. This ad should appeal to everyone.

Saatchi and Saatchi Copenhagen

2010-04-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

Quicksilver

I think these ads are very artistic and creative. Usually jean advertisements are of topless models wearing the jeans in compromising positions but this something new and different. It portrays jeans in a completely different way. The fact that quicksilver is often associated with the beach it is appropriate that the animals made in the campaign are in the ocean. Quicksilver is often targeted at young boys and I think this is an ad that would attract them. It is scary and masculine but also young. This ad wouldn't make a grown man want to wear the jeans, but to a ten year old boy this would seem really cool and appeal to them.

Publicis NY

2010-03-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

Vick's Vaporub

This campaign for Vick's Vaporub is art in a more obvious way. I think it's a clever take on Vick's Vaporub though. The statue is colorless, unable to move, and cold which are three symptoms of being sick. Vick's Vaporub is an ointment made to clear cough's and colds. The smoke going into the statue's nose is supposed to be her smelling the Vaporub. I wouldn't know what this ad was for immediately but the logo in the left hand corner makes it easy to catch on to. I feel like most medication ads are corny and this is a refreshing change.

T.A.G

2010-03-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Westpointe Dentistry

This ad for Westpointe Dentistry made me laugh. The tag line basically saying that the teeth that come out of their office are so beautiful that the tooth fairy had to take desperate measures to get them, with the picture of her pulling someone's teeth out while their sleeping instead of waiting for them to come out is very clever. A copy this long would usually bother me but what it loses in length it makes up for in humor. It sells the fact that Westepointe smiles are beautiful and I can think of a more positive way to portray the dentist.

Campbell Mithun Minneapolis

2010-03-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

Breast Cancer Awareness

I like this ad for Breast Cancer awareness. Putting the boxing cloves over the breasts with the copy "they can't fight for themselves" is creative and powerful. This ad makes you pay attention. If I saw this in a magazine I would definitely take a second look and that is important for an ad dealing with a cause that deserves attention. The bright red gloves in place of the breasts stand out and would make it very difficult to flip by. This ad is definitely innovative and makes me want to help with the fight against breast cancer. It says so much more than it does and that's what makes it so powerful.

Mullen

2010-03-23T17:30:00.000-07:00

News Page

I have mixed feelings about this ad. The giant meatball is filled with different news stories and the piece on the fork has the copy "we select just the news you need". The copy is clever as is the way it is displayed as a piece of the meatball but without that copy I would have no idea this ad was for News Page. I would have thought it had something to do with food and I honestly still don't get the meatball. I also always thought that news distributors prided themselves on giving all the news, is there such a thing as only news you need? At a glance this ad is a creative take on News but when I take a step back I'm not crazy about the art direction and I would have sent a different message

Deutsch LA

2010-03-23T17:19:00.000-07:00

Diet Dr. Pepper

I have seen this ad quite a few times and I always remember it.While I think this ad is corny, I think it's funny and creative. My favorite part about it is the fact that is an "I Exist" group session with figures like Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny there. It is a clever and new way of showing the great taste of a soda. This ad is saying that people can't believe that there are twenty three flavors and ZERO calories, it is that amazing. That the idea of a tasty diet drink was as far fetched as Santa and the Easter Bunny. It's an approach that has never been taken before and that is what makes me like the ad.

Hill Holiday Boston

2010-03-22T15:15:00.000-07:00

Bank Of America

This campaign for Bank of America's wealth management movement that now includes U.S. Trust is targeted at people with over $3 million to invest and they revolve around the idea of self made money. The copy in this particular ad says "She owns a house in Palm Beach, a villa in St. Barths, a condo in Sun Valley, yet, a piece of her still lives on a cul-de-sac in Ohio". People are more attached to the money that they make themselves than the money that they inherit. This campaign does a good job of making the consumer feel safe trusting their money with Bank of America, showing real people who made their money and care about it. These ads are also connected to family and friends. For example their are children's bikes in the front lawn on this picture and most people with that much money have families and want their family at the same bank. These ads are thoughtful and effective.

Carmichael Lynch Minneapolis

2010-03-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

Harley Davidson

I think this ad is as artistic as a Harley Davidson ad could get. Harley Davidson definitely has it's target market and this is directed right at it. I find this ad really funny. The copy "May wind be the only produce in your hair" combined with the bikers beard is a really clever way of advertising Harley Davidson. I couldn't think of a better way to sum up the attitude of a biker than with that copy. I have always got the impression that riding a Motorcycle is a lifestyle choice, not like driving a car. If I was a biker I would be inspired by this ad and appreciate it. It doesn't over stereotype what it means to be a biker but the copy acknowledges the fact that it is more of a lifestyle than just a bike. Not to mention, the picture itself is intense especially in black and white. The more I think about it, the more this ad grows on me.

Lowe Brazil

2010-03-20T00:43:00.000-07:00

Melissa Bedtime Stories

Before I looked up Melissa Bedtime Stories I tried to guess what this ad could be for, female shoes definitely did not come to mind. The shoes are probably the last thing I look at in this ad. While I guess you could make a far fetched argument that because the girls in these childhood stories of Rapunzel and Cinderella are looked up to and known by every girl, and the girls in these ads are confident and in control which aren't bad qualities to associate with female shoes there is no way you could come to that conclusion just by looking at that ad. Not to mention, putting the women and princess' of childhood stories in lingerie and having them control men is kind of distasteful but then again that's what most Halloween costumes look like today so I can't say I am shocked. Overall, I'm not a fan.

Draft FCB Malaysia

2010-03-20T00:27:00.000-07:00

Off Bug Spray

This ad is very clever. Af first when I looked at it I thought it was a target around the fisherman as if he is the target of the mosquito but when I took a closer look I noticed where the mosquito was and that the diagram was a maze. I tried to find a way from the mosquito to the fisherman and it is virtually impossible, showing that it you wear off spray there is no way a mosquito will bite you. The maze is the majority of the ad showing how large of an effect it has, the mosquito is really far away. The other thing I find amazing about this ad is that its from Draft FCB in Malaysia but this ad could communicate to anyone anywhere. Language and culture doesn't matter, this ad could run for Off Bug Spray anywhere in the world and it would translate to people.

TM Advertising Dallas

2010-03-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

I am not impressed with this ad at all. The copy isn't legible at all, the cheesecake doesn't look appetizing, and even after looking at it for a couple seconds I can't figure out that it is for a restaurant and once I do I can't read it. If this ad does anything positive it makes me realize how important the copy is. Even though the picture isn't very good I know that it's cheesecake but without the copy I have no idea what the ad is for and this copy doesn't help me figure that out. I don't get the saying, and I am confused as to why a restaurant that has cheesecake on the menu would want graffiti associated with their restaurant. I honestly couldn't find any work from TM advertising that I was crazy about.

McCann Erickson London

2010-03-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

Heinz Ketchup

I love these Heinz ketchup ads. They incorporate the Heinz ketchup bottle which is very distinguishable and find clever ways to turn it into tomatoes. The first ad slices the bottle up and the second uses the bottom and puts a tomato leaf on top to show the freshness of the ketchup. The tag line "no one grows ketchup like Heinz" is short and sweet and furthers the freshness of the product. I could not think of a better way to advertise ketchup. They are clever and portray the positive aspect of the ketchup, the fact that is fresh and made from real tomatoes in an artistic yet simple way.

The Martin Agency

2010-03-16T00:09:00.000-07:00

Wal Mart

This ad for Walmart was released on Nov. 1 just in time for the holiday season. Christmas cards are a stressful aspect of Christmas, especially making them. I think the picture it's cute and charming but I think the copy is the best part. "This photo might take some time. The photo card, well, that's done in seconds". It focus' on the efficiency and quickness of the Kodak machine which is a very desirable. Not to mention a dog with a wig and santa hat on definitely makes the ad memorable.

Grey London

2010-03-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

Pringles

I really like this Pringles ad. It's point in this particular ad is that they are "suprisingly crispy" but all of the ads in this particular campaign make Pringles seem exciting. As I have mentioned in other ads, the simplicity of it is what makes it a good ad. The bright red color on a white background puts the focus on the pepper and the fact that is exploding makes me think is exploding with flavor and that just like a crispy chip, it is breaking into pieces when you bite into it. It highlights all of the positive attributes of a chip without being an actual chip and that's what makes me like it.

JWT New York

2010-03-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

I think these ads for Swedish Fish are adorable. The images are confusing at first but the tag line "A friend that you can eat" makes it make sense. This is the best way I can think of to advertise swedish fish and it makes it unlike any other candy. There is literally no other candy that could use this tag line where as brands like snickers that use "satisfy your hunger" could pertain to any candy. More than anything, the ads are charming and they make me happy and want swedish fish. What more could you ask for from a candy ad?

Young & Rubicam

2010-03-13T17:56:00.000-08:00

Converse

I like the message of this converse campaign but I have trouble thinking its a good ad because its an ad for clothing. When I think of Converse I think of individuality and being different and this ad furthers that idea. The tag line "learn to love people for what they are and not the clothes they wear" promotes individuality and acceptance. Although I like the idea behind it, that tag line contradicts itself because it's an ad for converse clothes. Not to mention, I find it strange that they're comparing their clothing to a clown and basically saying their clothing is ugly. This ad makes me laugh and maybe makes me think but it doesn't make me want to do the most important thing of all which is buy the clothing.

Ogilvy and Mather India

2010-03-13T13:42:00.000-08:00

I think this ad campaign for the World Wildlife Fund is very artistic. The tag line "Our life for the cost of theirs?" is also very powerful. Showing a city in the shape of the elephant demonstrates that all of that city is equal to the life of an elephant. This ad is preventing elephants from becoming an endangered species and I think this is a very creative way of showing what our cities and lives that we live so carelessly do to the rest of the world. I think both the art direction and copy writing on this ad are very good.

Martin Williams Minneapolis USA

2010-03-03T17:34:00.000-08:00

Revlon Root Touch Up

I had no idea what this was a picture of at first but once I realize it was for Revlon root touch up it grew on me. I love that where the magazine folds is the part of the hair and that it is darker than the rest of the hair to show the roots. The fact that I couldn't tell what it was at first isn't the best thing but I did try to figure it out for awhile which made me spend more time on the ad rather than flip through it. When I think of hair product ads I think of models with big smiles and long shiny hair running down their back and that I know for a fact that I skip over those without a second thought when I am looking through magazines. If I saw this I would spend more time on it and I think that's important.

LatinWorks

2010-03-03T17:16:00.000-08:00

Wow. These ads are intended to raise awareness about child obesity, with the tag line "keep obesity away from your child", and promote keep your child active. These ads definitely have the shock factor in showing typical childhood toys like Barbie and Superman as overweight. Not only are Barbie and Superman popular toys but they are also looked up to by a lot of children and I think that makes this ad have even more of an impact. Every little boy wants to be as strong as Superman and every little girl wants to be as thin and pretty as Barbie so showing them overweight really makes it's mark. As disturbing as these ads are I like them and I think they are socially responsible. Obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States and I think this ads do a good job of inspiring people to take action and get there children doing active thing's like sports and dancing to stay active.

Dieste Harmel & Partners

2010-03-03T16:57:00.000-08:00

This ad is for Dole Mixed Fruit Juices, this one in particular for Pineapple Orange. I think these ads are good because of their simplicity. There are no words necessary or people necessary, the transformed fruit says it all. When looking at it, it looks like a pineapple but then after taking a second look you see that it incorporates both fruit. It makes you take a second look and spend time looking at the ad. It also isn't an illustration or animation it is real fruit which portrays the juice as fresh.

GSDM&M Idea City

2010-03-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

BMW X1

I think this ad sends the right message but is very generic. It reminds me of a million other car ads that I have seen before. I do like that it encourages people to enjoy themselves in the moment and takes the viewer not only around the car but inside where the people are enjoying themselves. It focuses on the feelings of the consumers rather than just on what the car can do. I also like the fact that it takes you through four different environments to show you the car can do and handle anything. Problem is, I feel like I have seen it all before.

180 Amsterdam

2010-03-01T13:36:00.000-08:00

I think these ads for for Adidas are powerful. The drawings are very artistic and show the intensity of what the person portrayed in the drawing is doing with all of the splattered paint and finger prints. The tag line "He's the Speed. You're the Bump" is also very intense and compliments the drawing perfectly. It gives the impression that people that wear Adidas mean business and are serious about what they are doing. That Adidas is for the most intense athletes, and for winners. It does all of this without even having to show an adidas product and that's what makes it good advertising.

Goodby Silverstein & Partners

2010-02-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

Lay's Made for Eachother

Lay's "Made for Eachother" campaign was designed to show how Lay's chip and dip are meant for each other. Interestingly enough, none of the spots made for the campaign include the product. Instead they portray other items falling in love and being meant for eachother. The animation is adorable and the song choice goes along with it perfectly BUT there are no chips. This one for example I am ten times more likely to believe is for light bulbs before I believe it's for potato chips. I am all for making the consumer think in ads and making them figure it out but there are literally no clues in these spots that they are about chips. These ads could have been really good had they just made their point a little more clear.

TBWA

2010-02-18T14:08:00.000-08:00

I like this ad because of how much it stands out. Not only is it on the side of a building, but the ball is above the ad in mid air making the ad come to life. I know that if I was driving by this building it would catch my attention because of how three dimensional it is. My only criticism about the entire Pedigree campaign is the tag line "Dogs Rule". I think TBWA could have come up with something much more original and funny to go along with all of the amazing print ads and spots that were created for this campaign.

DDB Brazil

2010-02-12T12:50:00.000-08:00

I think this ad is very clever in demonstrating how quickly things can get to where you're sending them with FedEx Express. At first you don't know what is really going on but after looking at it for a few seconds you realize that as the sender is putting the vase in, the other person is already receiving it. The fact that you don't get it right away also encourages you to sit there and figure it out so you spend more time looking at the ad and in turn remembering it. The ad also manages to look artistic, even though there is a FedEx box right in the middle. The fact that that it is a vase being sent also highlights the idea that they can transport valuable thing's just the way they were when you put them in the box.

BBDO Paris

2010-02-12T12:33:00.000-08:00

My first reaction to this ad was ew but when I took a step back I realized that shock factor is what makes the advertising effective. It is for a serious topic, conserving energy and saving earth, so it deserves a serious ad. I think it's artistic how they have the red clothing around the cheetah so that at a quick glance you think its blood and take a second look. It demonstrates that something as simple and careless as doing half a load of laundry can have an impact as large as killing a cheetah. It is the kind of ad you wouldn't flip by in a magazine, you sit there and look at it and think about it. It definitely leaves an impression.

2010 Super Bowl Ads

2010-02-10T22:21:00.000-08:00

I was generally unimpressed by the spots displayed during this year's Super Bowl. I didn't love or hate any of them and I think that is the problem. However, some were definitely worse than others.

Three Worst...

Audi Green Police (Venables Bell & Partners San Francisco)

While I appreciate ads that are eco conscious, this ad is just stupid. It tries too hard to be funny and in doing so mocks the idea of being eco friendly. In fact, I am more inclined to do those these things after watching this ad out of sheer protest and I don't think that is the way I should feel after watching an ad trying to promote eco friendly behavior.

Megan Fox Motorola (Anomaly New York)

I will be the first to admit that Megan Fox is gorgeous but this is a push. Motorola tried to associate themselves with the current obsession with Megan Fox, being the most googled person in 2009, but no such luck.The spot insults peoples intelligence and doesn't bring anything new to the table. It's about Megan Fox being hot and her liking the phone. I rolled my eyes at this ad which is not the reaction Motorola intended. However, as much as I disliked it the male demographic could have a very different opinion and they are the target market for the Super Bowl.

Go Daddy.com (NB Agency Los Angeles)

I have seen sexist print ads and been offended but seeing it in a spot was so much worse, you can't flip the page. Every single spot for Go Daddy.com during the super bowl was awful. I get that the larger target market during the Super Bowl game is men but this is just ridiculous. They are just so tacky and tasteless. Other agencies have been able to incorporate the sex factor, like Old Spice for example, without looking this stupid.

Three Best...

Parisian Love Google (Google Creative Lab)

This ad was my favorite ad by far and interestingly enough is the simplest. Other spots probably required half the money and half the effect. Not to mention, this ad is done by googles own small in house agency.It is charming and clever. The story it tells and the small touches like the misspelling of Louvre make it have a much larger effect than any other Super Bowl commercial I saw.

Betty White Snickers (BBDO New York)

I thought this ad was funny. It's hard not to like an ad with Betty White in it but it is a clever way of portraying the "Snicker satisfies" slogan. Not to mention, keeping the theme of football during the Super Bowl was a nice touch.

Gatorade (WPP Los Angeles)

I thought this ad was powerful and appropriate for the Super Bowl given that it was about the Super Bowl. It got me excited to continue watching the game and be a part of the game and I noticed all of the Gatorade references without feeling like that's all it was about. This spot had thought put into it which was refreshing amidst the other super bowl ads. It makes you want to win.

artful advertising

2010-01-31T16:05:00.000-08:00

DDB West San Francisco

This advertising for Clorox Greenworks is incredible. Artist Paul Curtis made a huge mural on a tunnel in downtown San Francisco using Clorox cleaning products. This ad is very impactful because the dirt on the tunnel wall is contrasted by trees made with Clorox products. This ad is very artistic and creative and sells the product in a way that encourages the consumer to think. This campaign generated a lot of buzz in the media because it is so unique and in the open and did a lot for Clorox because of that.

BBDO Chicago

It is hard to make gum seem important but I think this spot does. It focuses more on the impact of the gum as opposed to the gum itself. It is filmed in an artful way with the speakers bouncing the balls, and stimulating his senses, like 5 gum.

Ogilvy and Mather Toronto

I find this entire ad campaign amazing. The shock factor that follows this remarkable transformation is what makes it art. It catches your attention in a big way and is very appealing to viewers. I can't believe that's how fake these women we look up to are. This ad is refreshing and innovative.

TBWA/ Media Arts Lab US

The way the computer is presented is what makes this ad art. The fact that it is in that envelope to show its size is creative and the song works perfectly with the visuals. The spot portrays what is special about this product without saying a single word and that's what makes it so good..

BBDO New York

I adore this ad. It is such a clever way to market AT&T and the hansel and gretel aspect is what makes this ad artful. Incorporating a children's story that everyone knows makes the spot appealing. It highlights one of the advantages of AT&T, the GPS, without blatantly telling the consumer that.