Rolling out in time for Halloween, we take a look at the creepiest ads so far...
Ikea Singapore "Danny"
Ikea channels its inner Stanley Kubrick with this ad that spans over a minute. If you’ve ever felt like you’re in a never ending maze when you’re shopping in the home store, then BBH Asia Pacific's spot promoting late-night shopping hours will give you the heebie-jeebies.
Ikea Singapore pays homage to the 1980 classic by recreating its iconic hallway scene. But it’s not just a case of Danny on his trike. The ad pays very close attention to the details of the scene, including the red rug. They also hid a number of products within the video and launched a social media contest so viewers can spot the items and then win stuff.
Tomcat "Dead Mouse Theatre"
Next is the story of Fitzy Gibbons, a washed up ball player who wishes he was dead - played by a mouse who is dead. Faced with the difficulty of advertising a product that many find unedifying, US agency Barton F Graf 9000 decided to confront the issue directly. The abundance of dead mice that Tomcat leaves in its wake are recycled for your entertainment via the “Dead Mouse Theatre”.
The result is a series of irreverent and slightly creepy 30-second ads directed by Ringan Ledwidge (of Rattling Stick) describing an imaginative use for the little mouse corpses that will otherwise litter your home because of the effectiveness of rodent-control company Tomcat. In the accompanying ads, a leprechaun sings a mournful song for the loss of his gold and a Viking turns on an old friend as their luck runs out.
Snickers "Twisted"
In previous years, chocolate brand Snickers has given people the chills with the likes of the “Horseless Headman”. This year it’s the turn of the Spanish-language Snickers spot.
The Latinworks ad displays some pretty neat visual effects, and you’ve got to love the TV Novella-watching grandpa losing his rag at the end. Cuando tienes hambre no eres tú – or should we say “You’re not you when you’re hungry.”
Skittles “Web”
Arachnophobes won’t like Skittles’ new spot, which shows how a spider’s web can create a heap of trouble. Skittles and DDB Chicago have delivered the goods in the form of a new commercial that features a hungry, but helpful giant spider and two unsuspecting boys done up in their respective Halloween garb. It comes in two versions a 15-second and 45-second one with a twist.
Just when you think you know the whole story about the talking spider and his Skittles Web, the second version plays out a little differently. You can watch the extended version here.
We're sure that more Halloween themed ads will play out this week. Share your favourites in the comments below.
27 October 2014
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