The Snickers “Marilyn” commercial, which aired during the 2016 Super Bowl, effectively combined humor and nostalgia to capture viewers’ attention. This advertisement was part of Snickers‘ ongoing campaign, “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry.” This campaign emphasizes how hunger can significantly change a person’s behavior and personality.
In this particular ad, Willem Dafoe portrays a hungry Marilyn Monroe. The commercial cleverly references the iconic scene from The Seven Year Itch. In that scene, Monroe’s character stands over a subway grate, allowing her dress to billow up in the breeze. By using this familiar moment, the ad creates an instant connection with audiences.
The comedic twist in the commercial is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It highlights how something as simple as eating a Snickers bar can restore one’s true self. This message resonates well with viewers who appreciate humor that reflects real-life situations.
Overall, the “Marilyn” ad successfully reinforces Snickers’ brand identity. By merging classic film references with a modern twist, it captivates audiences while delivering a memorable message about hunger and satisfaction.
Willem Dafoe as Marilyn Monroe: A surprising casting choice
Casting Willem Dafoe as Marilyn Monroe was a daring and unexpected choice that sparked considerable excitement. Known primarily for his intense roles, Dafoe’s portrayal of the iconic blonde bombshell surprised many viewers. His unique interpretation added a fresh element to the advertisement, showcasing both his comedic skills and his ability to embody Monroe’s essence. This bold casting decision not only entertained but also challenged traditional gender norms in advertising.
Moreover, Dafoe’s performance highlighted the humorous aspects of Monroe’s character in the Snickers commercial. By depicting a hungry and cranky version of Monroe, he brought a relatable twist to the classic scene from The Seven Year Itch. This approach resonated with audiences, prompting discussions about gender representation in media. The ad cleverly used humor to illustrate how hunger can transform anyone into a different version of themselves, regardless of gender.
The reaction to Dafoe’s casting was overwhelmingly positive. Viewers appreciated the blending of humor and nostalgia, which created an engaging experience. The ad sparked conversations on social media, where fans shared their thoughts on this unexpected pairing. As a result, it became a talking point during and after the Super Bowl, showcasing the power of creative casting in advertising.
Willem Dafoe’s role as Marilyn Monroe in the Snickers ad was more than just a surprising choice; it was a clever commentary on hunger and identity. By embracing this unconventional casting, Snickers successfully captured attention while reinforcing its brand message. This ad stands as a testament to the effectiveness of humor and creativity in modern marketing strategies.
The iconic white dress and its significance in “The Seven Year Itch”
The white dress worn by Willem Dafoe in the Snickers commercial is a powerful symbol of Marilyn Monroe’s enduring legacy. Originally featured in The Seven Year Itch, this iconic garment has transcended its role as mere clothing to become a representation of femininity and allure. In the Snickers ad, the dress serves as a visual homage to classic Hollywood while highlighting the absurdity of Dafoe’s character struggling to maintain composure in it. This humorous contrast enhances the overall appeal of the advertisement.
Furthermore, the significance of the white dress extends beyond its aesthetic value. In The Seven Year Itch, Monroe’s character stands over a subway grate, allowing her dress to billow up dramatically. This scene has become one of the most recognizable images in film history. By incorporating this visual reference, the Snickers ad taps into a rich cultural narrative that resonates with audiences, evoking nostalgia for Monroe’s glamour and charm.
Additionally, the juxtaposition between Dafoe’s cranky, hungry portrayal and the glamorous image associated with Monroe creates a comedic effect. This contrast not only entertains but also reinforces the central message of the Snickers campaign—that hunger can transform one’s personality. The ad cleverly uses this iconic dress to symbolize how something as simple as eating a Snickers can restore one’s true self.
The white dress in the Snickers “Marilyn” commercial is more than just a costume; it embodies Marilyn Monroe’s legacy and cultural significance. By referencing this timeless piece of fashion history, the ad connects with viewers on multiple levels, blending humor with nostalgia. This clever use of symbolism helps to solidify Snickers’ brand identity while celebrating an iconic moment in cinematic history.
Behind the scenes: Creating the commercial
Creating the “Marilyn” commercial was a complex process that involved careful planning and execution. Directed by Jim Jenkins and produced by BBDO New York, the ad required a mix of practical effects and innovative cinematography. The goal was to effectively recreate the iconic subway grate scene from The Seven Year Itch. This task was not without its challenges, particularly in capturing Willem Dafoe’s transformation from a disgruntled diva back to a cheerful Monroe after eating a Snickers bar.
To achieve the desired effect, the production team faced several hurdles. They had to ensure that Dafoe convincingly portrayed both the cranky and glamorous aspects of Monroe’s character. Behind-the-scenes footage reveals the collaborative effort among the cast and crew. This teamwork was essential in crafting a memorable advertisement that combined creativity with humor.
Moreover, digital technology played a significant role in bringing this commercial to life. The team utilized advanced techniques to create seamless transitions between Dafoe’s performance and the classic imagery of Monroe. For instance, they employed digital mouth replacements to ensure that Dafoe’s lines matched Monroe’s iconic expressions. This level of detail demonstrates how modern technology can enhance storytelling in advertising.
Ultimately, the “Marilyn” commercial showcases the power of collaboration and creativity in advertising. By blending humor with a beloved cultural reference, Snickers successfully engaged viewers while reinforcing its brand message. This ad stands as a testament to how innovative production techniques can elevate a marketing campaign and create lasting impressions on audiences.
Reactions and response to the commercial
The response to the Snickers “Marilyn” commercial was overwhelmingly positive, making it a standout during Super Bowl 50. Viewers praised its humor, creativity, and Willem Dafoe’s memorable performance. Many found the gender-bending twist both entertaining and refreshing, which contributed to the ad’s popularity. Social media buzzed with excitement as fans shared clips and memes inspired by the clever concept.
In addition to positive viewer reactions, critics noted how well the ad captured attention amid fierce competition from other commercials. The combination of nostalgia and humor resonated with audiences, reinforcing Snickers‘ reputation for innovative advertising. Many commentators highlighted how Dafoe’s portrayal of a cranky Monroe effectively illustrated the campaign’s core message: “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry.”
Moreover, the ad sparked conversations about gender representation in marketing. This unexpected casting choice led to discussions about how humor can challenge traditional norms in advertising. As a result, the Snickers “Marilyn” commercial became a talking point not only for its comedic elements but also for its cultural implications.
Overall, the positive reactions to the commercial showcased its impact on viewers and critics alike. By blending humor with a classic Hollywood reference, Snickers successfully engaged audiences while reinforcing its brand identity. This ad exemplifies how creative storytelling can leave a lasting impression during major events like the Super Bowl.
The impact of the commercial on Snickers’ brand image
The “Marilyn” commercial had a significant impact on Snickers‘ brand image, reinforcing its position as a leader in creative advertising. By continuing the successful “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” campaign, Snickers maintained its appeal as a fun and relatable brand. This approach helped the company connect with a broader audience, moving beyond its traditional male-centric marketing. The humorous portrayal of hunger through Willem Dafoe’s character effectively illustrated the campaign’s core message.
Moreover, the ad resonated with viewers due to its clever use of nostalgia and humor. By casting Dafoe as Marilyn Monroe, Snickers created a memorable moment that captured attention during Super Bowl 50. This innovative approach not only entertained but also aligned perfectly with the brand’s identity. As a result, it strengthened customer loyalty and engagement, encouraging consumers to associate Snickers with positive emotions.
In addition to enhancing brand perception, the commercial contributed to increased sales and market share. Following the launch of the “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” campaign, Snickers experienced significant growth in global sales. For instance, in its first full year, the campaign helped boost sales by nearly 16%. This impressive performance demonstrates how effective advertising can translate into tangible business results.
Overall, the “Marilyn” commercial solidified Snickers’ reputation for innovative marketing. By blending humor with a beloved cultural reference, the ad successfully engaged audiences while reinforcing the brand’s core message. This campaign exemplifies how creativity in advertising can create lasting impressions and drive business success in a competitive market.
The success of the 2016 Snickers Super Bowl commercial
The 2016 Snickers “Marilyn” ad achieved remarkable success, garnering millions of views online and significant media attention. It quickly became one of the most talked-about commercials during Super Bowl 50. Nielsen reported high viewer engagement levels, indicating that the ad resonated well with audiences across various demographics. The clever combination of nostalgia, humor, and star power ensured that it captured the attention of many viewers.
Moreover, the ad’s unique premise featuring Willem Dafoe as a hungry Marilyn Monroe added to its appeal. By recreating the iconic subway grate scene from The Seven Year Itch, the commercial tapped into a beloved moment in film history. This nostalgic reference not only entertained but also connected with viewers on an emotional level. As a result, many fans shared clips and memes on social media platforms, further amplifying its reach.
In addition to its online success, the commercial also performed well in terms of brand impact. Snickers maintained its reputation for innovative advertising by continuing its “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” campaign. This consistency helped reinforce the brand’s identity as fun and relatable. Following the Super Bowl, Snickers announced plans to return for future advertising opportunities, showcasing confidence in the ad’s effectiveness.
Overall, the success of the “Marilyn” commercial exemplified how effective storytelling can enhance a brand’s presence during major events like the Super Bowl. By blending humor with a classic cultural reference, Snickers not only entertained but also solidified its position in consumers’ minds. This ad serves as a prime example of how creativity in advertising can lead to significant viewer engagement and lasting brand loyalty.
Conclusion: The enduring legacy of “The Seven Year Itch” inspired Snickers commercial
The Snickers “Marilyn” commercial exemplifies how classic film references can be effectively utilized in contemporary advertising. By reimagining an iconic scene from The Seven Year Itch, the ad not only entertained but also reinforced Snickers‘ brand identity as fun and relatable. This clever execution, combined with memorable performances, contributes to a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Moreover, the ad successfully blends humor and nostalgia, which are powerful tools in marketing. By featuring Willem Dafoe as a hungry Marilyn Monroe, Snickers created a comedic twist that captivated viewers. This approach allowed the brand to connect emotionally with its audience while delivering a clear message about hunger’s impact on personality. As brands strive to engage consumers, this campaign serves as a prime example of how effective storytelling can create lasting impressions.
Additionally, the commercial highlights the importance of cultural references in advertising. By leveraging Marilyn Monroe’s iconic status, Snickers tapped into a rich narrative that evokes nostalgia and familiarity. This connection not only enhances viewer engagement but also strengthens brand loyalty. As consumers increasingly seek authenticity and relatability in advertising, campaigns like this demonstrate how humor and cultural references can bridge the gap between brands and their audiences.
In conclusion, the enduring legacy of the “Marilyn” commercial showcases Snickers’ ability to innovate within its marketing strategies. By focusing on engaging storytelling and leveraging classic film references, Snickers has crafted an advertisement that remains relevant in discussions about effective marketing today. This campaign is a testament to the power of creativity in advertising and its ability to leave a lasting impact on consumers.
