Scottish Star James Cosmo Fronts RKCR/Y&R’s New Bank of Scotland Spot

Bank of Scotland is launching a new TV campaign starring Scottish actor, Highlander and Braveheart star, James Cosmo.

Cosmo, also famed for his appearance in Game of Thrones, plays the role of a spirit guide in the TV ad, offering sage advice and pearls of wisdom when it comes to the big decisions in life.

The campaign, called ‘Decisions Well Made’ also includes radio, online, press and social media activity, and is created by Rainey Kelly Campbell Roalfe/Y&R. It will run in Scotland from Saturday, March 14th.

The surreal TV spot depicts a young man getting conflicting advice from his parents on whether he should buy a house. Suddenly he is transported to an otherworldly crossroads (filmed in Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands) where he meets the spirit guide, a wise owl, played by James Cosmo, who tells him that when you reach a crossroads in life and find yourself unsure of which way to turn, you should “fly the nest” and “find a wise owl” to get advice.

The TV ad will run on TV and online in 30 and 40-second versions.

The campaign aims to demonstrate that Bank of Scotland is a trusted banking partner and can provide support, guidance and information to help people make better decisions.

Jean Reddan, Head of Marketing Communications for Brands and Marketing said ‘The new campaign allows us to place the bank exactly where our customers want it – using expertise and experience to help customers make better financial decisions.  It’s a campaign that is both distinct for the banking sector and incredibly relevant for our customers’

Matt Steward, Managing Director of RKCR said: “The new territory is routed in genuine customer insight, and carves out a really distinct creative territory for the bank to occupy.  We’re delighted to have been a part of creating such a strong campaign."