This week's guest judge is Vasudha Misra, executive creative director at BBH India.
Given what's happening in my country, India, and specifically the city I
live in, New Delhi, I thought about postponing this judging. After all,
who thinks about advertising at a time like this. But sometimes, you
need distraction and inspiration. And advertising is mine. Where I can
lock myself away for a few hours and not think about what's happening
around me. So here are my top distractions for the week.
BEST TV
Favourite: Burger King 'Confusing Times'.
Yes, we live in very confusing times. But there was no confusion when I
saw this ad. It just stood apart. I can go on and on about the
simplicity of the idea, the flawless direction, the seamless brand
connect, but really, it just made me laugh.
Runner up: Reform Alliance 'Technically Illegal'.
A simple piece of storytelling on a neglected issue. No flashy devices
or distracting tropes. It just shows the humanity behind something,
which at first glance seems to be an open and shut case.
BEST PRINT
Favourite: Colgate 'Smiles Always Find a Way'. Just a beautiful piece of work that shows why print is still be a wonderful medium.
No runner up.
BEST OUTDOOR
Favourite: Alcaldia de Soacha 'The Most Wanted Portrait'.
Lovely use of an existing technology to tackle an age-old issue. No
extra expense or setting up of infrastructure. And given all the
accusations of video games leading to violence, this is a nice way to
prove otherwise.
Runner up: Noticias de la Comarca Newspaper / SeSocio Financial Investments / Firefighters Foundation of Argentina 'Fireproof Newspaper'. This is a wonderful example of the medium, the message and the idea fusing into one.
BEST INTERACTIVE
Favourite: Sheba '4AM Stories'.
If I don't manage to file this judging on time, then this ad is to be
blamed. It is pulling me to bed. And I am not even a cat parent. Will be
saving this for future use.
Runner up: Uber 'Vaccinate the Block'.
Coming from India and the crisis we are in, this one hits home. Because
safety isn't an individual issue anymore. It works in units. Starting
from the family, to the building, and then to the entire neighbourhood.
This idea and the initiative is a nice way of tacking that.
BEST RADIO
No favourite.
Runner up: Sweety Silver Pants 'Arrival'. An unexpected ending that took me by surprise.