One of the most interesting things I've noticed between living in Australia and living in the States, is the difference in TV commercials. Strange thing to notice, I know, but I think it perfectly reflects the contrast between two, otherwise very similar cultures.
For those of you who don't know many Aussie's...they're quite a blunt, brutally honest group of people, especially in comparison to the ever-so-sensitive American (myself included in that category). So here's a few examples of the kinds of commercials you'll find yourself watching here in Australia in comparison to ones from back home.
Phone Commercials:
- Sprint (U.S.A.)
VS.
- Vodafone (Australia)
Can anyone spot the difference in humor? Americans tend to like laugh-track types of shows and commercials...we like having our plots and comedy spelled out for us. Aussie's, on the other, prefer the more direct route. Every time I see this on the TV, my mouth falls open...no one could get away with this kind of commercial in the States...especially a phone company!
Beer Commercials:
- XXX Gold (Australia)
- Carlton Draught (Australia)
VS.
The beer commercials are pretty similar...based on humor, though American commercials have a tendency to go a bit over-the-top and more lavish in comparison to the more laid-back feel you get watching Aussie beer commercials. I think that reflects 100% on how life is viewed in each country...Americans tend to be more high-strung while Aussie's just couldn't care less.
And here's one an Aussie friend just showed me...yeah, it's kinda "taking the piss" out of American beer ads. Enjoy :)
- Carlton Draught (Australia)
Car Commercials:
- Toyota (Australia)
VS.
Each country takes a lot of pride in their cars...and I just love the similarities between these two!
Dangers of Driving Commercials:
- The Heat is On (U.S.A.)
- One More What? (U.S.A.)
VS.
- MAFMAD (Make A Film, Make a Difference) (Australia)
Australia uses this thing I like to call the "scare-tactic" when it comes to commercials about safety. Whether it's speeding, drinking and driving, texting while driving, wearing sunscreen, etc. the Australian government is all about letting them know the truth. My boyfriend never bats an eye when commercials like these come on, but little Tennessee native me just freaks out. These commercials scare me!! but that's the point, isn't it? It's quite effective. The States on the other hand, doesn't have (to my knowledge) nation-wide campaigns when it comes to road safety. From what I understand, it's up to each individual state to come up with commercials and warnings, etc. And the videos I've chosen above, well all it does is threaten you...doesn't really scare you at all compared to the Aussie commercials.
Interesting stuff to think about.
~Little Blonde Traveler
