Morning (again) in America
Last night, we watched the Mad Men Nixon Vs. Kennedy episode. Afterwards, got to thinking of the role the ad industry plays in shaping political messages. Does the name Hal Riney ring a bell? He wrote (and voiced) one of the most effective campaign ads of all time: "It's morning again in America", which helped secure Ronald Reagan's re-election in 1984
Step forward now Dennis Haysbert, known to millions as President David Palmer of the television series 24. Like Riney, he's got a captivating voice and he employs it brilliantly in an Allstate Insurance company commercial that was very much inspired in its writing, delivery and background music by Riney's masterpiece. "It's back to basics."
Don Draper, the creative director at the Sterling Cooper advertising agency in Mad Men, would be proud of the simple language used by Allstate. This really is poetry, and the "back to basics" slogan is perfect for this challenging moment in history.
"1931...was not exactly a great year to start a business.
But, that's when Allstate opened its door.
And through the twelve recessions since,
they've noticed that after the fear subsides,
a funny thing happens.
People begin enjoying the small things in life.
A home-cooked meal.
Time with loved ones.
Appreciating the things we do have.
The things we can count on.
It's back to basics.
And the basics are good.
Protect them.
Put them...in good hands."
