Could Your Brand Become a Movie Phenomenon?

Have you purchased your tickets to see the new “Barbie” movie yet? The film embraces simplicity with its eponymous title. Starring the talented Margot Robbie as Barbie and the charismatic Ryan Gosling as Ken, this cinematic adventure weaves a tale of existential introspection as Barbie embarks on a transformative journey into the human world, yearning to discover her true purpose. Watching the movie or just the previews might make you wonder, “How does a brand become a movie phenomenon?” Well, this isn’t the first time its happened, either.

In recent years, the film industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in the popularity of movies centered around beloved consumer products. This intriguing trend showcases a fascinating blend of entertainment and marketing prowess. Notable examples of such films include “Flamin’ Hot,” inspired by the fiery snack sensation of Cheetos, the eagerly anticipated “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” sequel set to hit screens in 2023, the much-anticipated “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” the adrenaline-fueled “Air” based on Nike, and even the seemingly puzzling “Tetris” and “BlackBerry” movies.

The “Tetris” movie, an enthralling biographical thriller, delves deep into the riveting true events surrounding the licensing and patenting of the iconic video game during the tumultuous era of the Cold War. Meanwhile, “BlackBerry” narrates the meteoric ascent and catastrophic downfall of the world’s pioneering smartphone, capturing the essence of a groundbreaking technological journey.

Amidst this wave of consumer product-based movies, a question emerges: What drives movie producers to gravitate toward these beloved goods as a means to captivate and resonate with audiences? What would it take for your brand to become a movie star in an upcoming film?

The Spell of Nostalgia and Familiarity

One compelling reason for this phenomenon lies in the irresistible power of nostalgia and familiarity. Movies rooted in popular consumer products effortlessly transport audiences back in time, evoking cherished memories of childhood or personal experiences with the products themselves. This emotional connection heightens the appeal of these films and increases viewership. Movies like “Forrest Gump” and “Up” have masterfully utilized nostalgia, effectively resonating with audiences worldwide. Moreover, familiarity breeds comfort and trust, broadening the accessibility of such movies to a diverse audience. A shining example is the triumphant “Toy Story” franchise, which features beloved toys like Etch-a-Sketch.

Product Placement and Advertising Magic

Another driving force behind the prominence of consumer products in movies is the potential for product placement and advertising. Product placement, a strategic advertising technique, integrates branded goods and services seamlessly into productions aimed at large audiences. By incorporating popular consumer products into movies, producers forge lucrative partnerships through product placement deals with the companies behind these products. Iconic collaborations like the James Bond franchise with Aston Martin exemplify this synergy. These deals not only offset production costs but also boost overall profitability.

Movies based on consumer products also serve as effective advertising vehicles for the products themselves. By showcasing products in engaging and entertaining contexts, movies generate positive associations and pique consumer interest. The subsequent increase in sales and brand awareness proves immensely valuable for the companies behind the featured products. The success story of “The Lego Movie,” propelling soaring sales of Lego products, stands as a testament to this phenomenon.

A Cinematic and Product Synergy

Movies based on consumer products foster a symbiotic relationship between film and brand. Such films create a unique synergy, benefiting both the movie and the product. A successful movie centered around a consumer product drives demand for the product itself, while the product’s popularity fuels curiosity and interest in the movie. This mutually beneficial dynamic ensures that success in one domain propels the other. Disney’s integrated empire, encompassing studios, theme parks, and merchandise, beautifully exemplifies this synergistic approach, amplifying the success of their films across multiple fronts.

Would you like to make your brand movie phenomenon-worthy, you need Paradux Media Group.

Paradux Media isn’t just a marketing agency. We’re a group of professionals with executive-level leadership who can help your team develop world-class strategies to get the results you desire. We can get right to the heart of the matter and help you transform or simply solidify your brand. See what makes being a part of our flock different. Contact us today to learn more.