One PSA that will take your breath away This DeVito/Verdi spot for the American Asthma Foundation, lensed by Janusz Kaminski, the two-time Oscar-winning film cinematographer (for Saving Private Ryan and Schindler’s List), may be the best PSA ever made. It’s better than “This is your brain on drugs,” because that effort actually makes drug use appear subversive and desirable on some level. The frying pan was an apt metaphor, but few of us (hopefully) could relate to being cooked up in one. Conversely, this asthma spot, “Park,” conveys the experience of an asthma attack on a shockingly visceral and instantly empathetic level. After viewing it, I’d gladly donate just to get the images out of my mind. See if you agree. But first, take a deep breath. —Posted by David Gianatasio

May 20, 2008 in Freaky, Gianatasio | Permalink

Comments

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It's okay, but hardly the "best PSA ever made."

Posted by: Bob | May 20, 2008 9:08:20 AM

In the US maybe. the German anti child molestation/victim aid ad with the snakes was the best ive seen ever...this comes close. Very well done, perhaps the best ever deasise related one out there, I'll buy that since health PSAs are notorious for being bland and too direct.

Posted by: | May 20, 2008 2:37:13 PM

Same spot was already done by Otis Mass, via Group101Spots....

Posted by: | May 20, 2008 3:28:23 PM

is it bad i thought that was really tame and didn't stand out that much? yay desensitization. although i have to agree that the German anti child molestation/victim aid ad is the strongest PSA i have seen.

Posted by: anon anon | May 20, 2008 5:44:55 PM

the New Zealand anti-drunk driving spot by Gregor Nicholas is the best ever

Posted by: patrick | May 21, 2008 3:17:24 PM

strong work. makes me want to go right out and buy some asthma!

Posted by: | May 22, 2008 3:55:19 PM

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