Department of Unconventional TV Spots. (cont.)

Already almost November, and only two candidates for the Palm d'Or.

This new Levi's spot brings together two American icons, the other being Walt Whitman. That's his voice you hear, on a primitive recording device, in the first part of the ad, then it switches to an a very good voice actor. This is a celebration of American values, but an honest one - shot in black and white, gritty scenes, streets and districts that have seen better days. An unconventional message from a traditionally conservative firm, so high marks for that. The second spot is a reprise of an ad launched earlier this year, introducing the Palm Pre. Both ads are accused of "cultural appropriation." But I think Walt would have approved, be delighted that his work was finding contemporary expression. The other, starring an ethereal Canadian actress Tamara Hope, honours the spiritual ritual of the dancers. The M83 soundtrack is "Lower Your Eyelids To Die With The Sun."

See for yourself.

Comments

[CQ]

I don't have the speed for viewing internet video but I've gotta comment, Mr. Olive, that your mentioning of a music band like M83 makes you about the coolest mainstream public personality throughout Toronto - IMHO as the saying goes. I am convinced I will never readily hear that band, or so many indie-pop others, on any locally available radio or video show.

[David Olive]

Hi CQ: Thanks so much for your kind assessment. I'm like you in not having the time for most videos, fun and revealing as they can be. But M83, which some which commenters elsewhere have said they lost their virginity to, particularly that song (!), is what makes that ad work for me. Cheers, David