High Five: Comedy Is Simple
“That’s funny” are words that are often said about things that are, at best, sort of funny. Trying to make a funny commercial while navigating all the requirements can be awkward, like trying to write an intro to a piece about funny commercials...in the end, best to keep it simple. I chose spots I feel told simple stories in clever ways, while staying true to the brand’s needs. And yes, two of them are beer spots, which I guess says something about me...
Mitsubishi Electric - 'Magic'
Agency & Post: ASO
Production: Sugarstar Films
Director: Jesse James McElroy
With a fake snow storm, a woman eating mayonnaise out of a jar and a grandpa pumping iron, the client and agent were totally on board to have some fun. We had a lot of specs to get across in 30 seconds, but the visuals and quick cuts helped to keep it interesting.
Colorado Lottery - 'Commercials Multiplied'
Agency: Cactus
Production: Thinking Machine
Director: Jared Lapidus
Post: 11 Dollar Bill
Sound: Coupe Studios
All the subtle elements, from camera style, to music and actor performances, are spot-on in this parody. I also love how they use the infomercial ending to bring them all back, in a 30-second spot that doesn’t take a frame for granted. I didn’t think I could feel nostalgia for bad '80s pizza commercials...I was wrong.
Anheuser-Busch - 'NDA'
Agency: M&C Saatchi
Production: The Other Stuff x Current Resident
Director: Matt Ott
Post & Sound: The Other Stuff
The concept is silly, the writing is clever and the performances are great. What more do you want!?
Taco Bell - 'Decisions'
Agency & Post: DeutschLA
Production: UNIT9
Director: Maya Albanese
As the camera slowly moves in, a simple story is told. It’s quick, funny, looks pretty and gets multiple brand features across - $5 box, using the app, two menu options and a refreshing looking blue drink. Throw on the end card and pat yourselves on the back!
Greene King - 'Ice Breaker Pale Ale: It’s Just a Name'
Agency: Engine Creative
Production: Birth UK
Director: Devon Ferguson
Post: nineteentwenty
Sound: Wave Studios
I love how this spot’s simplicity pushes the awkwardness of the situation. The camera is still, the sound design is minimal and the VO comes in at a near whisper. I feel like I’m standing across the street about to walk into my apartment but just can’t look away. It’s a smart way to use the brand’s name and it also makes me want drink a beer, cheers!