Thursday, May 22, 2008

Wow, What A Commercial

It has been easy to jump on all of the inadequacies of the NHL's marketing in recent years. From the NHL store to the broadcasts to the scheduling to the logo change, the league has made many mistakes and has done quite a poor job. But I have to bow down and say that I have been utterly blown away. Puck Daddy over at Yahoo! posted it last week but I just saw it - the NHL's new playoff commercial:

The concept follows the league's commercial earlier this year that followed a play around the rink with players from different eras playing in the different shot changes. It is simply a brilliant idea and all credit is due to the league for coming up with it. Hopefully they plaster it on every sports channel during every sporting event over the next week - not just Versus and NBC during the game.



 The Power of Memorable Commercials: Impact, Creativity, and the Magic Behind Them



We've all experienced it—a TV commercial that grabs our attention, tugs at our emotions, or makes us burst into laughter. These memorable moments in advertising are more than just entertaining interruptions; they are a testament to the power of creativity, storytelling, and effective marketing. In this article, we will delve into the world of commercials, exploring what makes a commercial unforgettable, the impact they have on consumers, and the creative process behind them. We'll also address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the world of advertising.

FAQ 1: What Makes a Commercial Memorable?

Memorable commercials share several common elements:

Creativity: Memorable commercials often stand out because they are exceptionally creative. They break away from the mundane and deliver their message in a unique and engaging way.

Emotional Resonance: Commercials that evoke strong emotions—whether it's laughter, nostalgia, or empathy—tend to be more memorable. Emotions create a lasting impression.

Storytelling: A compelling narrative can turn an ordinary commercial into a memorable story. People remember stories, and advertisers capitalize on this by crafting narratives that resonate.

Catchy Jingles or Taglines: Music and memorable taglines can stick in our minds long after we've seen the commercial. They serve as hooks that keep the brand in our memory.

Surprise or Shock Value: Commercials that surprise or shock viewers are often the ones we discuss with friends and family. They break expectations and get people talking.

The Impact of Memorable Commercials

Memorable commercials have a profound impact on consumers and brands:

Brand Awareness: An unforgettable commercial can boost brand recognition and awareness. When consumers recall the commercial, they are more likely to remember the brand.

Positive Associations: Commercials that resonate positively with viewers create a favorable association with the brand. This can influence purchasing decisions.

Behavioral Change: Effective commercials can drive consumer behavior. Whether it's making a purchase, supporting a cause, or changing a habit, well-crafted ads can motivate action.

Longevity: The best commercials can have a long-lasting impact. They become part of our cultural memory and may be referenced and parodied for years.

Word of Mouth: Memorable commercials often lead to word-of-mouth advertising. People share them with friends and family, extending the ad's reach beyond its initial airing.

FAQ 2: How Do Advertisers Create Memorable Commercials?

The process of creating memorable commercials involves several key steps:

Market Research: Advertisers begin by understanding their target audience, their preferences, and their pain points. This informs the messaging and tone of the commercial.

Creative Concept: Ad agencies brainstorm creative concepts that align with the brand's message and resonate with the audience. This is where memorable ideas are born.

Scriptwriting: A well-crafted script lays the foundation for a memorable commercial. It includes dialogue, narration, and descriptions of visuals.

Casting: The choice of actors or spokespeople is crucial. They must be relatable to the target audience and able to convey the desired emotions.

Production: Filming or animating the commercial brings the script to life. This includes selecting locations, costumes, and props.

Editing: Post-production involves editing the footage, adding music or sound effects, and fine-tuning the visuals to create the desired impact.

Testing: Some commercials undergo testing with focus groups to gauge their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

Distribution: The commercial is then distributed through various channels, including television, social media, and streaming platforms.

The Magic Behind Memorable Commercials

Creativity is the magic ingredient behind memorable commercials. It's the ability to take a product or message and present it in a way that captures the viewer's imagination. Creativity involves thinking outside the box, taking risks, and challenging conventions.

Another critical element is storytelling. A compelling story can turn a 30-second commercial into a memorable experience. Storytelling engages the viewer emotionally and mentally, making them more likely to remember the message.

Moreover, memorable commercials often tap into universal themes or emotions that resonate with a broad audience. Whether it's the love between a parent and child, the pursuit of dreams, or the joy of discovery, these themes connect with viewers on a deep level.

In addition, humor plays a significant role in many memorable commercials. Laughter is a universal language, and a well-timed joke can make a commercial unforgettable. Humor not only entertains but also leaves a positive impression of the brand.

FAQ 3: Can Commercials Have a Negative Impact?

Yes, commercials can have a negative impact if they are offensive, insensitive, or misaligned with the brand's values. Such commercials can lead to public backlash, boycotts, or damage to the brand's reputation. Advertisers must be careful to strike the right balance between creativity and sensitivity.



In the world of advertising, memorable commercials are the gold standard. They captivate audiences, drive brand recognition, and sometimes even become a part of our cultural lexicon. The power of creativity, storytelling, and emotional resonance cannot be underestimated. Memorable commercials are not just advertisements; they are moments of connection and entertainment that leave a lasting mark on our memories.

While not every commercial can achieve the status of a memorable classic, advertisers continue to strive for that magic formula that will make their message unforgettable. The next time you find yourself sharing a funny commercial with friends or humming a catchy jingle, remember that it's not just a commercial—it's a testament to the creativity and impact of advertising in our lives.




No comments:

Post a Comment