Is there anything more American than hamburgers? Yes there is - hamburger advertisements. McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King - their advertisements have become a part of the culture (And how about the Burger King laying out Torry Holt in the newest ad? You go, King!)
But does the work of Ronald, Dave Thomas, or the King hold up to some of the less famous burger joints? This 1971 ad from the Red Barn is second to none. Not only does it apparently feature the southern, less successful puppet brother of Sesame Street's Ernie, but it features my favorite staple of the advertising medium - testimonials given by actors playing real people. It a little disturbing how much larger the puppet's head is next to the blond kid, but the ad is saved from this logistical disaster with the end comment informing everybody that "for ladies and little people we'll cut it in half." Are they being condescending toward women? Or midgets? Or both? Regardless, The phrase just sounds disturbing on a few levels doesn't it?
Watching this ad made me immediately think of one of the greatest Mr. Show sketches ever. The 2:15 mark of the following video features a dead on satire of the Red Barn testimonials, but somehow the customers here just sell it a little bit better. (By the way, listen to this either by yourself, or with headphones if you're at the workplace)
A 2-for-1 bonus on the vintage commericals today! Take it from me. I love you!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
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