advertising design and the culture that surrounds us

Archive for March, 2008

One of the Greatest

Thanks for the memories Brett, you truly are “Priceless.”

Toyota Happy Factory

Wow. Maybe this is the way auto factories are in Japan, but not the United States, and definitely NOT Mexico. What an interesting commercial, but for all it’s grand imagery and hip/retro music (Blondie’s Back baby!) what is it really saying? Even the Toyota, “Made with a Human Touch,” ending doesn’t really jive with the man diving into balloon/airbags, and the car adored by butterflies. I think this kind of commercial is just a sonic and visual feast that associates you with the brand, and builds recognition. If you already drive a Toyota you’re excited to be part of the Toyota family, if you don’t yet, it maybe piqued your curiosity more like, “What am I missing?” Compared to some other auto commercials this is fully in left field. I mean who needs to tell you about financing, or gas milage or safety? It’s a Toyota they’re telling you, all of that should be assumed. We have the car thing figured out, we’re just going to make some visually stunning television commercials to remind you about us. Though subtle they did get two of their models some nice recognition. If you watch it again look for the Yaris and the Rav4 names on two of the cars showcased. They appear several times, but maybe you didn’t see them, why don’t you go ask your subconscious if it did.