Representation

Rough VS Rad Representation

Representation is defined as the portrayal of certain groups, ideas, or experiences. Throughout the media industry, they're well-represented groups and under/ badly represented groups. For a group to be accurately represented it must be depicted in a nature that is most similar to real life or the truth.

The first advertisement I wanted to discuss is the axe body spray commercial. Throughout this commercial women are seen running through the jungle-like wild animals. They are all trying to reach this man who has a smiling face as he is putting on the axe spray. Audiences are made to believe that using this body spray attracts women. This idea is reinforced by the slogan "Spray More- Get More- The Axe Effect." While that may encourage more men to buy the product, it does not give out a positive statement towards society. 

I believe that the creators wanted the audience to take this somewhat literally. The number of women running was exaggerated and could be seen as a comically large number. However, I think they were serious when saying that this spray would be liked and attracted by women. Advertisements such as this are not the best contribution to society. When picturing many women running in bikinis it gives off the idea that women are like hungry animals that cannot control their desires when they are interested in a man. It also contributes to the idea that women are only useful for sexual needs as the guys face seems satisfied yet like he expected women would find him irresistible. Furthermore, every woman pictured was slim and large chested which may give the wrong idea that all women should look that way. The objectifying of women is reinforced with the slogan "get more" which treats women as if they are nothing but a number or object one can receive more of.

On a different note, an ad made by H&M called "Close the Loop" challenges some stereotypes and is more represented by actual society. The message of this ad is to encourage people to donate unwanted clothes to H&M stores regardless of their fashion senses.

Throughout this ad pictures of a diverse group of people are shown doing/ wearing something that is seen as unfashionable or taboo. This is much different than any other clothing ad because it is not trying to sell clothes but instead of asking for clothes. The ad is also encouraging people to break common fashion rules. What is so unique about this advertisement is the diverse set of ages, races, sizes, races, and genders. Men appear in 'girly' clothing while an older man is dressed as a teen and so forth. Their environments are also very different from a park to a club. This helps include all members of society. In reality, people are not all one body shape, gender, or race. This ad encourages our differences and makes sure that anyone (no matter their style) can donate and appeal to their cause.