Posts Tagged ‘culture’

Woman’s Last Stand – The Spoof Heard ‘Round the World’

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010 - by MEA

“I will say yes when you want me to say yes… I will listen to your opinion of my friends… I will carry your lip balm…” According to Dodge’s 2010 Super Bowl commercial, men sacrifice a lot. But there is a limit to their chivalry, and the 368-Horsepower, V8 Charger is the perfect means to maintain a shred of dignity.

For some, Man’s Last Stand was well conceived given its target audience – an interesting, albeit exaggerated, depiction of the lives of 20- and 30-something men. For others, Dodge’s rallying cry for guys everywhere to reclaim their manhood came across as emasculating and sexist. And there’s been no shortage of commentary as a result. The most notable was Woman’s Last Stand – a video spoof that sheds light on the other side of the story, delving into the sacrifices women make on a daily basis (well, according to its creator). Part of the response includes: “I will assure you that size doesn’t matter… I will turn a blind eye to your ever-encroaching baldness… I will elect male politicians who will make decisions about my body…” The pointed message was enough to attract more than 250,000 views on YouTube alone, along with thousands of user comments and media coverage. Not too shabby for a spoof, which are typically under-produced and lack any real traction in the realm of viral videos.

What do you think? Is Man’s Last Stand harmless entertainment? Or, does Woman’s Last Stand portray it accurately as misguided and offensive? Furthermore, like it or not, Dodge is receiving added exposure (Man’s Last Stand has garnered more than 1 million views on YouTube) thanks to the controversy. Is this a case of “there’s no such thing as bad PR”? Or, will the uproar further tarnish the brand of a flat-lining car company?

by MEA

Is “Cut”, a PSA starring Keira Knightley, too hard-hitting?

Thursday, June 11th, 2009 - by MEA

“Cut”, starring actress Keira Knightley, is a PSA created to raise awareness of domestic violence. But, the controversial commercial has censors shaking their heads. They’ve banned the commercial until several edits are made, claiming it’s too shocking for audiences. Proponents of the cause say the commercial effectively raises awareness. In fact, “Cut” has already garnered over 1 million views on YouTube.

Is “Cut” too hard-hitting? Or, will its disturbing nature open the public’s eyes? Is this a line advertisers should avoid crossing? Or, does the end justify the means? You be the judge.

by MEA