Snickers UK has launched an advertising campaign featuring Rowan Atkinson’s character Mr Bean, the latest instalment in the “You’re No You When You’re Hungry” series. Set in ancient China and filmed in the style of martial arts epics, Mr Bean appears as Master Cheung, a Kung Fu Master in ancient China who is not feeling his usual self until his hunger is relieved by a Snickers bar.
The 60-second commercial in Mandarin with English subtitles was introduced to the audience and premiered exclusively on ITV’s flagship channel during The X Factor as part of the broadcaster’s Proud to Present initiative. Ahead of the launch, ITV aired ten second teasers throughout the afternoon and evening to build viewers’ excitement and anticipation.
As part of the launch, there will also be four exclusive Mr Bean Kung Fu training sketches available through the Snickers Get Some Nuts Facebook page, Snickers UK YouTube channel and Twitter page, and a Snickers takeover of The X Factor app using ITV’s innovative ad format, Ad Sync. A 60 second spot will also be shown in cinemas across the UK in the lead up to the Christmas season.
This latest commercial, Rowan Atkinson’s first ad appearance since the 1990s, builds on the success of the ‘Locker Room’ Snickers spot, which launched in 2012 starring Joan Collins and Stephanie Beacham. The Joan Collins ‘Diva’ ad, directed by Russell Bates, was the most recognised ad in the UK in 2013.
Credits
The Snickers Mr Bean campaign was developed at AMV BBDO, London, by executive creative directors Adrian Rossi, Alex Grieve, copywriter Richard McGrann, art director Andy Clough, agency planner Will Whalley, account team Katy Davis, Dhane Scotti, Chloe Harding, Anna Ohrling, agency producers Rebecca Scharf and Nikki Holbrow, working with Matt Boulter, Snickers Brand Director, Mars Chocolate UK.
Filming was shot by director Daniel Kleinman via Rattling Stick with producer Johnnie Frankel.
Audio post production was done at Jungle Studios by chief sound engineer Owen Griffiths. Editor was Eve Ashwell at Cut + Run.
Media was planned at Mediacom by planner Amanda Zafiris. Media was bought via Zenith Optimedia.