BMP DDB gives Marmite kiss of life in new TV spot

by Jennifer Whitehead,, Brand Republic 07-Jan-03, 13:00

LONDON - A Marmite lover gives a lifeguard more than he bargains for in the latest 'love hate' television commercial for the spread that divides the nation.

In the new spot, created by BMP DDB, a lifeguard is shown on a traditional British beach preparing a Marmite and cheese sandwich.

The lifeguard's enjoyment of this tasty snack is interrupted when he spots a man flailing in the water and desperate for help. The lifeguard drops his sandwich and races to the beach, diving through the waves to rescue the drowning man.

Once he has saved him, the lifeguard starts to give the man the kiss of life. But on coming to, the disorientated man tastes the Marmite on his lips... and pulls the lifeguard's head back down and kisses him back.

The lifeguard finally manages to pull away and the camera focuses on the man in the sand, licking his lips and smiling. While the familiar Marmite music plays, the ad finishes with a shot of the Marmite sandwich that has caused the trouble.

The ad was written by Adam Tucker, with art direction by Justin Tindall. It was directed by Dominic Murphy through production company Partisan. Media is by Initiative Media.

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