So, I have to honestly ask. Who produced this ad spot and who allowed the producers to invest their money in it? I think it's horrendous and looks like a poorly made commercial for a new series on SOAPnet.
If we're not having fun, then why are we doing it?
These are DISCUSSION boards, not mutual admiration boards. Discussion only occurs when we are willing to hear what others are thinking, regardless of whether it is alignment to our own thoughts.
That was probably one of the most unromantic kisses I've seen in a long time that (I'm assuming) was not supposed to be a comedic moment. It looked like a couple of junior high kids who think kissing just means mashing your faces together.
When the book was published, it was widely considered a gussied up bodice-ripper for suburban housewives. I think the commercial plays straight to that demographic, don't you?
The marketing team also had dozens of posters up in the tri-state area that incorrectly said previews were beginning on MONDAY, January 17th. January 17th was a Friday.
"I guess "gussied up" is a way to describe a bodice-ripper that just happens to be beautifully written."
These things, like much in art and entertainment, are subjective. What is lowbrow and vulgar to one reader is profound and beautiful to another. The louder (and more sophisticated [gasp! a dirty, dirty word these days]) voices mocked the book (and film), although the book's sales prove many loved it.
This wasn't the first instance of this sort of thing, nor will it be the last.
When Ballroom opened, Michael Bennett knew it was the equivalent of a "Women's Picture." He had the marketing team take out full page ads in women's lifestyle magazines.
This ad is doing the same thing in a 21st century approach. The joke is that it looks like a douche ad, but hey, that's their market. It also looks like a Lifetime movie promo.
So they're probably doing the right thing. Go after middle aged suburban women and get them to FORCE their husbands to attend. Or their book-clubs can go in groups without the hubbies.
Another point. For specific market groups, tacky sells.
I do understand who they're going after, and I understand that some of you think it's the right way to go. I'd agree with that, too. But let's just talk about the quality of this ad spot. It isn't even about catering to a particular demographic. It's just poorly produced. Whether you're a 40-year-old housewife or 20-year-old college student is irrelevant. This commercial would not excite anyone. It looks like an SNL spoof.
I think if the creative team had moved the action to Mexico, changed the title to The Bridges of Oaxaca County, and given it a Latin-flavored score, it would interest me a bit more than it currently does.