If you live in Kansas City and own a television, you've probably seen a commercial for the Lee's Summit Physician's Group featuring a talking baby with an English accent. I can't begin to describe what a bone-chilling fright I feel every time this ad comes on. Imagine all the horrifying and unsettling things you've ever seen in your life, now imagine them all on TV with a talking baby.
If you haven't seen the ad, here's a link to the video. Watch at your own risk. I've seen this abomination several times and it always leaves me asking questions.
First off. WHY? I would have loved to read the creative brief for this campaign. "Client is a regional hospital, looking to attract young mothers 24-35. Oh, and they love crappy English accents and disturbing visual imagery involving children." My second question is, why English? I know Lee's Summit is pretty damn far to the east of Kansas City, but I don't remember crossing an ocean last time I went out there. Why would a child, presumably born in suburban Missouri have an English accent?
And what the hell were they thinking with the copy? "I've got things to do… If you know what I mean." What the hell does this baby mean? Does he have some ladies waiting for him at the club? Is he late for a speaking engagement at the university? What is it Lil' John? What?
Lastly, why in the name of all that is holy, would they run titles behind the baby's head so they're completely unreadable? In what world is this ok? I can't read your horribly plain Arial Rounded Bold titles! How will I know when to bring my baby into your crazy English baby hospital?
Damn you, Lee's Summit Physician's Group. Damn you for giving me nightmares. Damn you for ruining the mood while I'm watching an episode of the Daily Show. You may have just convinced me to buy a DVR.