Staples' Coach Tom eyeing a losing season
Staples and ad agency Duffy & Shanley try hard to score—perhaps a bit too hard—with the "Gift It For Free" effort, which introduces Coach Tom, a sports fanatic obsessed with winning. Alas, what we have here, in terms of the overall campaign, is a well-intentioned loser. First off, there's a disconnect between the "coach" theme and the client, which sells office products. The approach seems better suited for a Sports Authority. The actor who plays the coach is amusing—it's tough not to smile when he orders a Tai Chi class to "Charleston." Still, there's not much context for why he should behave like this in the first place. He reminds me of the middle-aged, flabby gym teachers and coaches I encountered in school: self-centered bullies obsessed with winning through others. Maybe that's the point: Thanks to Staples, you don't have to play his game to win. It's a nice try. Better luck next season. |
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November 18, 2008 in Duffy & Shanley, Gianatasio, Staples | Permalink |
Comments
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Say whatever you want that is a funny video. And thanks Staples for not doing some stupid santa thing like everyone else.
Posted by: Cheznie | Dec 1, 2008 5:42:11 PM
We wrote a blog post on Staples and Coach Tom, too. We have a very different opinion on the subject. It's a clever campaign, by any measure. And the videos ... hilarious! Great work, Duffy & Shanley!
Posted by: Mikey | Dec 4, 2008 10:43:22 AM
