Geico’s “Happier Than a Witch in a Broom Factory” (2012): An Unnerving Juxtaposition
Geico is known for humor, but their 2012 “Happier Than” campaign ventured into darker territory with a witch-themed ad. The sight of witches joyfully working in a broom factory, coupled with the ad’s whimsical tone, created a bizarre and slightly creepy contrast that lingered in viewers’ minds.
Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” (2010): Surreal Discomfort
Old Spice’s 2010 campaign, featuring the suave “Man Your Man Could Smell Like,” was surreal to the point of being disconcerting. The rapid scene changes and the character’s omnipresence created an air of mystery and unease, making these commercials memorable yet slightly unsettling.
Little Baby’s Ice Cream “This is a Special Time” (2012): Disturbingly Memorable
Perhaps one of the most unsettling ads ever, Little Baby’s Ice Cream’s 2012 commercial “This is a Special Time” featured a humanoid figure made of ice cream eating itself. The combination of the figure’s calm narration with the bizarre act of self-consumption created a deeply disturbing visual that haunted viewers long after the ad ended.
Carlton Draught’s “Big Ad” (2005): Creepy Grandiosity
Carlton Draught’s 2005 “Big Ad” parodied epic beer commercials but with a creepy undertone. The exaggerated characters and over-the-top cinematography created an atmosphere that was both amusing and unsettling, showcasing how grandiosity can sometimes venture into the realm of the bizarre.
Skittles’ “Touch the Rainbow” (2011): Surreal and Unsettling
Skittles’ “Touch the Rainbow” campaign in 2011 showcased a series of ads that were nothing short of surreal, often bordering on disturbing. Firstly, these commercials introduced bizarre scenarios, then they brought in odd characters, effectively challenging traditional advertising norms. Consequently, viewers found themselves in a whirlwind of emotions – initially amused, yet simultaneously feeling a sense of discomfort. This unique blend of elements in the campaign ensured that the ads were not only memorable but also sparked a range of reactions from their audience.
These commercials, masterpieces of horror and surrealism, laced with twists that take us by surprise, do more than just sell products. They’ve etched themselves into the very fabric of TV history. They stand as a testament to the power of advertising that dares to delve deep into our psyche, tapping into emotions we scarcely acknowledge – fear and unease.
Stay tuned for our next feature, where we’ll uncover the latest and most chilling commercials that have crept onto our screens. In the meantime, check out How Big Brands control our favorite movies by their product placement strategies.
