Halloween Haunts and Marketing

October is upon us and we all know what that means--haunted houses, scary movies, trick-or-treating, and costumes! Many companies are using the Halloween theme to create ads on YouTube. Geico, for example posted a hilarious ad that is a parody about bad decisions characters seem to make in horror films. While this might not directly make people call Geico for insurance; it certainly grabs attention.

Geico Commercial:

Another big trend we have seen for marketing during Halloween especially are pranks! Pranks are often used to market upcoming horror movies. Carrie and Deliver Us From Evil both did amazing, elaborate pranks last year in order to raise hype for the release of their films. This year, Ford decided it would get in on the fun. Teaming up with a local haunted house, they devised a car wash prank. 

Ford Prank:

 

These pranks and types of commercials function to grab attention and entertain rather than to sell a product or service. They make companies much more likable, as least to me, because I appreciate the Halloween spirit. This type of marketing helps to break down the wall between consumers and the company and show that the company is interested in our entertainment and amusement. I love seeing the new creative pranks companies come out with! Plus, it helps get me in the mood for visiting my FIRST haunted house THIS Saturday! Wish me luck!