by Joyce V Harrison

Created on: July 12, 2010

Some TV commercials are entertaining, some plain boring and some mildly irritating. But some are so annoying that “mute” has worn off a lot of remote buttons or “fast forward” if you have DVR. It’s very possible the advertisers have decided that “annoying” helps recall and that, when we’re out shopping, we will automatically reach for their product, not realizing how we have been influenced by the commercial. Are you kidding?  Although each of us may have different personal favorites in this category, here are a few nominees for 2010. 

Medications

So many winners (or losers) here. The couple in twin outdoor bathtubs have been trumped by the couple whose kitchen morphs into a romantic setting where Cialis will allow them to...well, that’s x-rated. Maybe he had it planned and put a blanket out on the ground. Otherwise, ouch. 

The Lipitor guy now talks to camera with his son beside him and still oozes phony sincerity. Apparently, he is an ad man and talent agent who did have a heart attack for real but this spot shows why he’s an agent and not a talent. 

And what’s the connection between dancing and diabetes in the CVS commercial? Have you ever seen bunches of people breaking into a choreography routine as they exit that store? Me neither. 

Paper Towels

An elephant crashing in to clean up spills? Really? That should definitely get us to run out for a roll of Sparkle. Then there’s the R&B classic “Lean on Me” in a rendition by this lumberjack guy on the Brawny package. I get it. Spare me.

Financials

The e-trade babies may make your list, but not this one. Too cute and well-written. But the green line path for Fidelity, although it’s a fine company, is dorky enough to make it annoying. If you include insurance in financials, that Progressive girl aka Miss Perky needs to cut down on the caffeine or whatever it is that’s winding her up. 

Exterminators

Hate bugs. Hate seeing them on TV too. These are spots to close your to as well as mute or fast forward. So if the purpose is to register the brand or service, Mr. Advertiser, it’s not working. Didn’t see it. Didn’t hear it. Don’t know your name.

Fast Food

The King in the Burger King spots is just plain creepy.

Most annoying of all is the loudness of every commercial. When is the government going to take action?

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