Just when you think that TV commercials can't get any more stupid, along comes the latest one from Viva paper towels. When I look at commercials like this, I envision myself watching it with my own grandchildren. As I did with their father, I would probably comment on just how dumb I think the commercial is and why. The question is, are manufacturers just hiring more lame-brained people, or do they really think this is going to sell a roll of paper towels to most people because it is memorable? Well, I have news for the makers of Viva (Kimberly-Clark): I am calling for a worldwide boycott of your product because of your irresponsible advertising in this commercial.
Why? Because we have enough disrespect in our society. The commercial promotes being a "friend" with your kid instead of setting a good example and being the parent. Not only that, but it is an insult to the young children in our world that would never think of doing such a thing. And don't tell me that it is "just a commercial" and that we all know it is fun. It's time to create worthy commercials for a widely used product like this, instead of taking the cheap shots.
Originally posted on Pentimento by webduck
(c) CW 2007
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Comments: 23
I completely agree that the commercial industry is getting to the point they make it seem like we are all mentally challenged and they make their commercials to that affect.
We have not had our tv on in over 5 months. When I hear this kind of stuff I can't help but laugh and it just makes me keep it off that much longer.LOL
I don't miss the stupidity that they throw in our faces daily.
I also invented the Ninja Noodle game, using a pool noodle and nerf balls. (If you can't block all of the nerf balls with a pool noodle how is a ninja blocking all of the steel stars with a stick?) Used that with my scout troop later for the same lesson.
I agree commercials are incredibly stupid and one reason that I can hardly tolerate watching anything on TV.
Watch it again, and I mean really watch it. notice the expressions on the boys face. The boy appears to not really know what would happen and is surprised when it sprays. Then he is completely crushed when his mother yells at him.
The afterthought of his mother to grab the sprayer is a wonderful way to recover from a harsh scolding. I can only wish I had been more of this kind of a parent. What an opportunity to build trust with a child, to let him know that no matter what happens, he can come to you and not be belittled. What the add doesn't show is the love built between mother and son as they clean up the mess together and discuss why this is not the kind of behavior that is generally acceptable, but it also is not the end of the world.
Too many of us as parents take these little things far too seriously. I was one of those who missed far too many opportunities like this to bring joy and fun memories to my children.
--Richard
father of three
grandfather of 4
uncle of 27
great uncle of 83
Sorry Webduck, I realize this is your article, but I think commercials can teach responsibility as they sell products.
Second (always a second if there is a first), the climate warming scare is a hoax - just to get more tax dollars. The will now tax cows $175 each because of the methane gas. Now, that will mean an increase in the cost of your milk, that will cause many farmers who never seem to make a profit anyhow, go out of business. Thus, the huge corporate "farms" get control.
Third (optional), being frugal is a good idea as this recession deepens. Go another step further - use cloth napkins. The more you wash them, the softer they get.
And, save electricity - turn off the TV and pick up a classic or get your real news on the internet. Old media controls most people's lives and they don't know it yet.