Two car makers don't take full advantage of Mad Men cast members' character intricacies.
John Slattery, aka Roger Sterling, promoting the new Lincoln MKX.
John's character is brash, masculine, and overbearing. In this commercial, everything from his glasses, clothing, and the copy speaks to sophistication and intelligence. It would have been inappropriate for him to promote anything besides an American automaker, because of his character's opposition to foreign car makers, specifically WWII enemies. With that said, my impression of him as a character does not mesh with the persona presented in the commercial. Lincoln would be better served if John was directed to take advantage of his masculinity and edge even if it's misguided at times.
Next consider Jon Hamm, aka Don Draper, as the new voice for Mercedes-Benz.
This choice makes me feel indifferent. At first, I was happily surprised when I recognized his voice. It's understandable that he has desirable Q scores as a celebrity on a popular series, but Mercedes-Benz doesn't seem to take full advantage of the depth of his public persona. Don Draper is mysterious if not secretive, and these commercials are without any hint of depth and fall flat.
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