A contrast in styles

A couple more quick reviews today. A friend passed this West Wing reunion along:

It’s pretty clever, and actually does a good job of conveying some important information without sounding too political. Some of that is the format, a lot of that is good acting. It’s really amazing what good actors can do, the “bio” section of the video is really well done without too much fanfare.  It’s logs in at a little over four minutes, but doesn’t feel overly long. Makes me miss the West Wing too.

Next up another appearance for Elizabeth Warren. I think the script is pretty good hear, it’s conversational and common sense. It’s the kind of explanation you don’t hear a lot of in politics, straight forward, no spin, and it makes sense. My real problem with this ad is how stark it looks. It looks like a response ad from the 90’s shot on piss poor betacam. It’s flat and ugly. I understand that it might have been thrown together quickly, but surprised at how bad it looks given the ubiquitousness of quality cameras — especially in the Boston area.

I keep thinking the starkness was a deliberate choice, especially given the fact that there’s no music, but whether is a choice or not (Boris would say, “Your work is on the screen”) it’s unfortunate. Does it matter, maybe maybe not, but I think if the ad looked a little bit better it would be a home run, even looking pretty flat and dark, it’s a good spot because the message is right on.

Getting back into the game

Been a while since postings, part of that is I’ve been busy, but also I find it difficult to find something to post about that I’m really interested in.  Most of the ads I’ve seen are pretty standard fair. I like un-standard, that’s what I want to write about… ah well.

In the interests of posting, some quick thoughts today.

I always find the word “liberal” as a throwback to the 90’s when Republicans were using it like a four letter word. I like the graphics of this spot, they’re neat in a Matrix kinda way, though not sure if they’re adding to the message or just neat.  Also, not sure I’ve ever heard a more cranky/crotchety disclaimer.

Next up, a new Tester ad. I can’t tell if I like this ad or not. On one hand it’s a clever concept, and they stick with it.  On the other, the talking animals are a little… creepy. The first time I watched the spot, I was so caught up in animals talking, I didn’t even listen to what they were saying. Also, what format are they shooting on? For a professional ad for a big senate race, the video looks really cheap and crappy I noticed this last time, I reviewed a Tester ad). Still I give them points for trying something different.