More fun indeed

I can hardly believe it myself, but I am a fan of these new spots for Six Flags.



Yes, I can see how they could be annoying but I think they’re funny and I like how the device reinforces the brand name. Advertising is full of examples of engaging spots that don’t connect the idea to the advertiser. No issue with that here.

The spots are largely retail, focusing on specific offers, which is not typically the best opportunity for great creative. I can’t find what agency created the spots (done in-house, perhaps?) but I think they did a good job with a difficult assignment. And the device is ripe for spoofing.

There’s been some talk about these spots being racist. This blogger went so far as to say the racism in these spots is “off the charts.” Seriously? Let’s all just settle down. There’s certainly a nod to the over-the-top wacky Japanese game shows many of us have seen. But racist? I don’t see it. Advertisers will always strive to connect to the latest thing as a way to get attention, and I see this as just another example.

There are other, perhaps earlier, versions where Flagman (as he’s called) seems kinda angry. Those don’t work for me nearly as well. It’s his intense but joyful delivery that I like. Here’s another.