Saturday, 14 November 2009

• Terry Tate, Office Linebacker

  A few weeks ago I (sarcastically) harped on just how irksome Olive Garden ads can be. Well, they still are, as are most commercials (Especially TV spots for Yaz...don't ask). Of course, now and then, there are those commercials that just get it right from opening until closing. Today, I'll show you just what it means to market something to the male, young adult demographic. Enter Terry Tate, Office Linebacker.
  
  The video up above was a Superbowl ad for Reebok in 2003, but in all honesty, it's probably the best minute anyone could spend watching a commercial. And the beauty of it is that they barely even mention Reebok. In fact, Terry Tate was so successful that he's been brought back more recently to encourage people to vote (plus, Sarah Palin's sacking was well deserved).

  First of all, the very premise of this ad is fantastic. If you've ever witnessed what goes on in corporate offices, or at least seen Office Space, then you probably understand that it's hard to keep your productivity up from 9am to 5pm, five days a week. There will always be a certain amount of unsanctioned shenanigans and a breakdown of office protocol. But the fictional Felcher and Sons has recognized the ultimate solution to this problem: the threat of physical pain. What better motivator is there?

  This is a case where over-the-top humor works. Terry's intensity coupled with the cowardice of the office staff makes for a ridiculous, but memorable commercial, and that's exactly why it works. Does it make you want to go out, buy a pair of Reebok's and sack your history professor? No. But it sticks to your mind. It puts the image of Terry tearing through office lackeys like a stack of pancakes and the idea of Reebok's together.
  
  That's truly all they want you to remember. As long as that brand name is stuck in your brain, the commercial has done it's job. Even though I don't really like the idea that I'm being brainwashed, I at least got to laugh while it was happening, which eases the pain a bit. On the other hand, when I'm annoyed into remembrance, like the Olive Garden managed, all I can think about is how much their commercials sucked. Any press is good press, I suppose.
  
  Have you seen a commercial that's left you doubled over in laughter?
  

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