Taurus Moore
The Super Bowl is one of the most exciting and viewed sporting events in the country. To the fans, celebrities and athletes, the Super Bowl brings excitement from every corner of the nation.
Personally, unless my team is playing in the big game, I pay close attention to the advertisements that have been successful since the Super Bowl started. This year’s advertisements weren’t as pleasant and funny as they have been in the past.
The game itself was enjoyable, but when it comes to the world of advertising, it is obvious that not a lot of effort or thought was given within these commercials.
One commercial that really stood out for me was the widely-discusssed Nationwide ad. Basically, there was a child that was stating he would never go on an adventure, experience cooties, get married, live his life, etc. Why? Because he is dead.
This was one of the most depressing commercials I have ever watched on Super Bowl Sunday. It gave me the sense that Nationwide believes it is important for children to know that they need to be insured because if they don’t, they will die.
Usually, Nationwide gives a positive message with their ads. They let their clients know they are on their side. It’s stated in the famous jingle: “Nationwide is on your side.” From this commercial alone, it doesn’t seem that way.
If accidents happen to anyone that is insured with them, they should be able to help them by all means. Advertising in this form is not a helpful way of getting the people’s attention. It didn’t help them create an environment of safety.
It is more frightening than helpful, especially for children. When I saw this commercial, I was shocked by the dead boy and the brief description that was shown in the end of the ad.
Peyton Manning, who was featured in one of Nationwide’s commercials during the majority of the NFL regular season, may have wondered why his sponsor chose such a skeptical approach.
The commercial was a disappointment for many viewers across the nation. The message was very somber for a big sporting event such as the Super Bowl. It is supposed to be a time of joy and fun when everyone is watching football.
Nationwide has been receiving scrutiny due to this advertisement. An insurance company is supposed to help their clients’ lives, not advertise the end of them. Is Nationwide really on your side? Only you can make that call.
However, don’t let the advertisement itself make you believe that Nationwide will not be helpful as far as finances and health are concerned, but be cautious of the message that they are sending.
Column by Taurus Moore, Graduate student from Wadesboro, N.C.