Four&Sons

Marking the territory

BY Four, September 1, 2011

Casting dogs for commercials is not a sure bet for success, yet with a well crafted script, a talented director and finely-tuned editing, they can certainly deliver that very sough-after ‘feel good’ factor. Add some wit to the equation, and they could even snatch an award.

In the last few years (and with the SuperBowl in mind), a few brands have been pushing those buttons more than others. Look at Budweiser with their Dalmatians or Doritos with their pugs. This month we showcase three commercials by Bridgestone Tires that became classics in their own right.

Suicide Dog
A tale of betrayal, this commercial is heartbreaking and hilarious in equal parts. Beautifully scripted and edited, the cast of dogs deliver drama and emotion throughout. The timing is impeccable, especially with our scorned lover’s facial expressions. Created by BBDO (Bangkok) for Bridgestone Thailand, it was banned for its context about suicide.

Lucky Dog
A fine example of the climatic chase scene, executed and edited with rigour. As cool as Steve McQueen, the little protagonist (real name: Pebbles) hits the right ‘anti-hero’ note. Directed by Kinka Usher, already an specialist in special effects, in the quaint little village of Orvieto, Italy, it was shot to premiere at the 2008 SuperBowl, but instead Bridgestone decided to run it in movie theatres instead.

Limo Dog
A cute little dog’s talent for comic timing makes this commercial clean, easy, fun viewing. A simple idea, well executed. We cannot ask for more these days.

Tags Advertisement, Bridgestone, Campaign, Commercial