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With Ads of the Weird, MSNBC.com takes a look at some of the oddest, most eye-catching, controversial and just plain interesting advertising out there today. Primary writer Allison Linn covers the retail and advertising industries for MSNBC.com. The Ads of the Weird team is always interested in hearing what ads have caught your attention, whether it's online, on television or in print.


Trojan oinks up controversy

Posted: Tuesday, June 26, 2007 2:34 PM by Allison Linn

News flash: Men are pigs.

OK, before all the men reading this get offended, let’s just get one thing straight: That’s coming from a condom company, not a woman’s magazine.

Trojan’s new ad campaign features a bunch of attractive women unhappily surrounded by a group of pigs. Literally. Sipping drinks and staring at the wall, the women try their best to ignore the pigs’ pick-up lines, until one of the porkers heads over and buys a condom. Like the classic frog-to-prince transformation, the promise of safe sex turns Mr. Piggy into Mr. Hottie, and he gets the girl.

Trojan

The ad is part of a broader marketing campaign called “Evolve,” as in, an evolved guy has, and uses, a condom.

Everyone knows sex sells, but apparently some people get nervous when it sells condoms.

A spokesman for Trojan said two networks, CBS and Fox, declined to run the ads, while other networks agreed to air it after 11:30 p.m. That, of course, just garnered the ads more attention.

It seems some people get nervous when condom ads are something other than serious diatribes against the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. Of course that’s incredibly important, but let’s also be practical: A lot of women also want to make sure there’s a condom available because they’d rather not wake up with a baby on board.

Perhaps more importantly, is there something wrong with playing up the attractiveness of a guy who promises safe sex along with a more appealing pickup line, especially if the bottom line is that more people are protected from disease and unplanned pregnancy?

Trojan has hit on a lighthearted way to promote safe sex, complete with a lovelorn ditty that manages to come off as funny and even tasteful. How many ads in general, let alone those for condoms, can boast that?

Click here to watch the ad.

Click here to watch a CNBC video report on the controversy:

Update: Also, TV editor Gael Fashingbauer Cooper over at Test Pattern is holding her annual summer commercial contest. Today's topic: ad music that strikes a sour note.

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Comments

Um, Steve, look up your facts...a condom, when used correctly, is effective in preventing 97% of pregnancies, and is also extremely effective in preventing HIV infection (reduces the risk to less than 1%). Also, a woman can get pregnant any day of the month...there are simply different probabilities of getting pregnant at different points in a woman's cycle.  Its fine for you to express your religious point of view, but really, if you are trying to look informed about a topic, and trying to get people to see things your way, you might want to try and not sound so ignorant

Tara, Colorado (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:20 PM)

I personally think both men and women can be "pigs" at times, so the next commercial they need to have women as the little piggy bar flys doing the piggy thing. This would solve everything...and let some people see themselves for what they really are! To each their own when it comes to sex, religion, etc... Gretchen, I believe Steve was just giving his personal option like you were and not FORCING his religion on you....there is a little something called "freedom of speech". If you feel you should wait to have sex but go ahead and have it or if you have sex regularly and you have it without protection...you still may have to suffer the consequences. Simple, it's called brains, some choose to use them and some don't.

Allison, Charlotte, NC (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:20 PM)

I guess it would be a different scenerio if women were portrayed as sluts handing out condoms to various "pigs".

Pete I Gunn (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:23 PM)

Okay yes there is a need for the promotion of safe sex. Let's face it,if you tell a kid not to do something what are they going to do, they do what you tell them not to.  I think the ad is disrespectful to both sexes. I mean seriously, you think a guys is a pig and then he has a condom so he is automatically hot.  Excuse me, that only happens after some serious drinking. How hard up was she?  Selling condoms is great and teenagers, as well as everyone else, does need to be informed before they do something incredibly stupid, but I do think they could have done it more effectively by using another analogy.  For those debating Fox and CBS not showing condom commercials during prime time. Okay, first off Fox owns Fox Sports which aires condom commericals at all times during the day.  CBS owns Viacom which is 90% of the channels on basic cables and the last time I checked some were airing condom commericals.  Parents need to properly educate their children and we as a country should not have to rely on television to educate our children. An uneducated person on condoms with a condom can be just as dangerous as a person not wearing one.

Amanda, MS (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:23 PM)

I like the ad and feel the same way a lot of people to about showing commercials for Erectile Disfunction.  If we can have a commercial promoting drugs for HERPES and limp pricks at all hours of the day then we can have a commercial promoting the use of condoms.  Yes, most women are smart enough to bring their own condoms which suggests they are on the prowl for sex but the majority of women I see in Austin Texas are not married, pregnant with 4-5 kids in tow below the age of 6 and are between the ages of 14 to 40 because they can't keep their legs closed and the men can't keep their pants zipped.  As for all those other networks who won't show the Trojan add before 11PM YOU are nothing more than a bunch of hypocrites.  

Becky, Austin TX (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:24 PM)

I think what everyone is forgetting about this ad is that not only men spread HIV, and men are not the only ones that like to sleep around without protection. It takes Two to Tango

Tango (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:28 PM)

the truth hurts doesn't it boys???? Believe me, millions of jilted women are laughing their a@###es off at the irony of it.

kslater (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:29 PM)

Hey Meghan and Steve, great for you.  But I am long ago divorced, a bit of a serial monogamist now and I am not saving myself for anyone.  I just think having knowledge about condoms and the fact that they could keep you from getting killed is maybe good and God might be OK with it.

bill, atlanta (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:32 PM)

I would love to see the dog to woman transformation commercial for Midol!  That would be hilarious - especially to see everyone get all puffed up in indignation about it.  Give me a break, people!  

Shannon, San Antonio, TX (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:32 PM)

I just think it's cute! The pigs are so ugly that they're endearing! I'm a Christian, but at the same time, I know that a lot of people have sex outside of marriage/not with one person. Or there are people who are simply not ready for pregnancy. Yes, there are failures with condoms, but what people neglect to say is that the majority of failures come as a result of improper use, so it's not fair to blame the condoms. I think it's a great advertisement, and I'd still proclaim protection, protection, protection!

Heidi, Trinidad and Tobago (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:40 PM)

Good for Trojan.  I see nothing wrong with condom commercials. In fact, there need to be more of them.  If we can put up with the erectile disfunction commercials, and the endless commercials for feminine hygene products, why not condoms?  And it's not just young people who need to worry about sexually transmitted diseases.  AIDS and other STD's are a problem for the "baby boomer" gereration too.  All older men are not ED drug dependent and us "older" people are enjoying very active sex lives.  Sex is not something "dirty" or somehow shameful as some would want folks to believe.  

K Mc Rural Colorado (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:48 PM)

It's just a little disappointing that it seems you can instantly elevate (npi) your esteem in someone else's eyes by simply buying a condom for a couple of bucks or whatnot.  Not long ago, a woman could be offended by that old "bought you a nice dinner, now what's for dessert?" kind of mindset, and now we're just cheaping down our expectations.  Guess you really do get what you pay for!(snicker)  Seriously, if you're offended by this commercial, you haven't been paying close attention to society at large for the last thirty- to forty-odd years, as we can be really disgusting when we want to. This is just silly.

Dave, PA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:50 PM)

I hadn't realized so much thought went into this ad.  I saw the ad, thought it was funny, and then kept watching TV.  I've never thought of depending on ad execs for my daily dose of social commentary.  Besides, barn animals in a bar drinking beer?  That's really pretty funny.  Light up, peeps....

Tom, Wichita, KS (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 5:58 PM)

Wow... can you say "over analyzed"???  I can't help but crack up when folks watch an ad and think that the men and women in the ad represent ALL men and women every where ever.  The satire in the ad is used to further the comedic effect.  And in response to the conservative posts, I applaud your dedication to your beliefs and hope it brings you all the joy you deserve.  However, the reality is that the majority of people who buy condoms are not in the same boat as you, and Trojan as to consider it's target audience.  And many people in that group DO engauge in casual sex, and they DO meet sex partners at bars.  If Trojan remained oblivious to this in their ad compaigns, they would not connect with their consumers, hence making the ads completely futile.  Now, if you will excuse me, i'm going to buy some Trojans and find a bar :p

Matt, San Clemente, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:00 PM)

I loved this commercial!  From personal experience and talks with my friends, I think there is a growing resistance towards young men to wear condoms at all. They expect the woman to be on birth control and, I guess, assume they are invincible to disease.  I thought this commercial was an excellent way to make a point that a man who thinks and acts responsibly is automatically that much sexier.    

Erin (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:01 PM)

While the ad is definitely offensive to pigs, I don't find it offensive to any type of human.  A man who wants to pick someone up for unprotected sex is definitely a bad person (ok, a pig).  A man who is responsible for his and his partner's health is much better, and should be viewed as much more attractive, and that is the message of the ad.  As for the moral arguement of the importance of sex during marriage, there is nothing in that ad that discourages marriage.  Some people wait until marriage to have their first sexual experiance, and that is great.  Other people don't.  This ad is for those other people.  The religious "right", unfortunately, acts like these people don't exist or shouldn't exist.  Wearing a condom for sex is like checking the breaks and wearing a seatbelt for a car.  It does not guarantee complete safety, and user error usually causes the most danger, but it SUBSTANTIALLY improves safety.  

Alex, Newark, NJ (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:03 PM)

This is absolutely ridiculous.  So far, the major things I have seen right now in discussion are that the men don't want to be depicted as pigs, and the religious don't like the message.  First off, as a young woman - when I go to the bar - the majority of men are drunk and...piggish.  Second - what commercial doesn't depict a stereotype?  Thats the motive of a commercial...to atract your target market.  If you aren't the pick up type then most likely - you aleady know the value of a condom.
On the religious side - I am a raised catholic - but I don't want 20 kids.  Birthcontrol is not permitted - so the opinion of Christians are really insignificant here.  You are not the target market of this ad.
The fact remains it is a smart creative ad.  Much better then the ads where a stick of gum makes you make out in front of your parents or in a convenience store.  Keep up with the ads Trojan!!

Carolyn Meraw, Edmonton Alberta (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:09 PM)

Few things:

This country needs to stop being so offended by every little joke.  Its embarassing.  Any guy that was actually offended by this ad needs to wake up.  We are far to PC these days...

Second, I have no problem if you believe in god, allah, or whatever fictitious supernatural being you choose, and furthermore, I could care less if you want to wait for marriage before having sex.  JUST DON'T EXPECT ME TO HAVE THE SAME VALUES, AND DON'T PUSH THEM ON THE REST OF US.  

And third, please keep your nutbag propaganda to yourselves.  Sex will never be perfectly safe, but neither is life.  Condoms help prevent pregnancy, HIV, and other STDs.  If you can't figure that out, well, you probably shouldn't be going outside in the first place.  

Lastly,

I just need to reiterate the fact that this is NOT a christian nation.  This is a free nation, built on secular, not religous, ideals.  And it will stay that way, no matter how many people you manage to brainwash along the way.  FREAKING EVOLVE!

Ryan, San Diego, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:13 PM)

Many men are asking if they should be offended by this ad, and I say, absolutely.  As a feminist, I believe in gender equality, and simply because women are often dealt the shorter end of the stick by society doesn't make men impervious to prejudice as well.  Just as women are sterotypically portrayed as irrational and overly emotional, men are often pigeon-holed as insensitive and brutish--i.e., like pigs, although it is abundantly clear that many men are not swine.  That said, the conventional idea of female beauty/sexuality is used in advertising to sell almost anything these days, and are generally not threatened to be pulled off the air.  I think I've only seen one Carl's Jr. commercial in about 5 years that doesn't equate women to meat on some level.  So the question is, have we won the battle when advertising does not exploit either gender and keeps PC-kosher, or have we won when everyone is seen as fair game by the advertising industries?

Jaynie Dough, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:16 PM)

What about the pigs? Why do pigs always have to be portrayed badly. Daggum PETA, never there when you need 'em.......

Nick, Lawtey, Florida (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:20 PM)

Ok.  Hold on.

The Midol commercial idea is brilliant and somebody has to do it.  Imagine a man steps out of the shower and walks down the hall drying his hair to open his bedroom door, only to find ......  a snarling pit bull.  Screaming like a little girl he throws the towel in the air and runs down the hall pursued by the dog nipping at his heels.  After an energetic pursuit around the house, he manages to lure the dog into the bathroom and close the door.  There is some thumping as he falls exhausted on the couch.  The dog whines and then... the door opens and out walks his beautiful wife in a business suit all smiles.  She puts a bottle of Midol on the coffee table kisses him goodbye and heads off to work.  

John Doe, Seattle Wash (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:24 PM)

I think it's a great commercial. I hope my son pays attention to it and uses a condom before three lives are possibly destroyed! It is in much better taste than the ED tub commercials!

Joanne (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:26 PM)

i thought the commercial was great. i know it seems to say that men are pigs (they arent....well most of them) but it really gets the message across. i am so tired of constantly seeing ED commericals and the guys smiling about it. Say it with me "EEWWWW" I think it should be shown on every network no matter what time of the day. And for the bible dude up there..... less and less people are practicing abstenance (i should now, i live in vegas) so it is better to be safe than sorry. Thats how the world works so DEAL!!!

Penny Lane, Las Vegas, NV (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:28 PM)

I agree with Steve Bradshaw from Missouri that God, The Almighty, created sex for relations between man & wife.  It's the truth, whether you like it or not.  It's the truth whether you'll obey it or not.
Steve, I love how you pointed out that God, The Sumpreme Creator of all things, has set boundaries for us because He loves us and these boundaries are for our own protection.
To those of you who have decided that what God has intended for mankind is unimportant to you, I ask you this question:
Who can protect you better than The Most High?
The obvious answer is: no one or no thing.
I find it hard to understand how or why anyone could put more faith into a flimsy piece of latex, than they put into Our Lord, The Self Sufficient and The Omnipotent.
Don't fool yourselves people.

Karima (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:30 PM)

The ad is offensive on so many levels that there is no appeal.  Hmm, even a pig looks good if he has a condom?  Women will pick up anything in a bar? We don't need advertising like this anyway - picking up strangers in bars (worse yet, someone who wasn't even walking on all fours until he hit the Trojan machine) is dangerous.  Although it does beg the question of whether or not you can make a latex contraceptive out of a sow's ear...

Kelly - Sacramento, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:34 PM)

To Jaynie Dough's post about the ad being sexist and demeaning to men, I agree.  But it doesn't shine too bright a light on women either.  Bad enough to generalize that all men are pigs - but then that even the hottest of women will sleep with any pig who can distinguish himself in the crowded bar by the enlightened act of having his own birth control/disease preventer really demeans us all.    

Kelly - Sacramento, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:37 PM)

So much drama from one little commercial.

PG, Tempe, AZ (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:43 PM)

The problem with the attitudes I see on both sides of the "religeous right" is that it is impossible in a country that has freedom of speech for any party to be protected from being drenched in the spewings of the others who are opposed to it.  Fact: this country is in a sexual crisis with elementary children joining the ranks of those experimenting with sex as well as sexual acts and many finding the education to do so on their own television sets and in their own parent's bedrooms.  There is little "education" going on at all.  The different sides of the issue cannot agree WHAT to teach our kids about sex so they are being over educated about it.  No matter when or if this (or any commercial relating to sex)commercial airs on television it will be found by kids who are more computer savvy than most persons over 30.  When parents wake up and not only teach their kids SOMETHING to protect them by modeling it themselves and intentionally educating their children are we going to see the trend change.  If you don't want to see your kids plow through multiple partners (each one carrying with them the STDs of previous partners)and continue the downward spiral then let it end with you.  Whether you are a believer in abstinence or not you are contributing to the big problem every time you have sex with a partner whose sexual history you do not know.  It can take up to 7 years for some STDs to manifest!  Taking responsibility for your own personal actions is not the responsibility nor the care of a company selling a product to be used in a sexual act.  Please stop putting the blame anywhere but on your own head and do something about the issue itself.

Sarah Dailey, Chehalis, WA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:47 PM)

i believe that was a very brilliant ad!! we all need to be safe when it comes to having sex.  even if it's someone that we have been with for 10 years.  u just never know!!!!

Rhiannon warila roseburg, OR (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:47 PM)

Some quick thoughts on the subject...I think this commercial doesn't help in fighting the one of many misconceptions perpetuated by laypeople about evolutionary biology. The process of natural evolution is not linear and intelligence does not necessarily indicate a highly evolved life form. Unfortunately, ardent creationists use this and other misconceptions all the time. With that said, I'm not up in arms about it...I'm afraid in this context that'd be nit-picking.

The commercial made a bold statement and, overall, is positive in my view. I took the bar scene as only an example of any number of situations that could lead to need of a condom. As a monogamous person who for my own emotional, intellectual and SPIRITUAL reasons chose NOT to wait until marriage, I see nothing wrong in a commercial that promotes something with such immediate practicality and relevance as condoms.

I understand that this is at odds with the socio-conservative ideal, and I don't think those that are more liberal minded should name call. Likewise, I don't think those on the conservative side should be condescending, either. Profound physical, emotional and spiritual experiences regarding sex are not limited to those who follow one particular spiritual framework.  Something as intensely personal as sex should be treated as a personal prerogative that, within the confines of safe and honest behavior, should be respected.

Ashley, Westchester, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:48 PM)

There is nothing more offensive about this commercial than there was about the commercials just like this, but for smoking.  Attractive men/women would morph into ugly frogs or some other creature when they started smoking. how is this any different?

Marjore McArthur, Daytona Beach, Fl (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:53 PM)

You people who don't like the ad need to get over yourselves.  Who cares if it is not everyone's "cup of tea?"  It was funny, creative and presents a different spin on the who condom issue.  Why should it be relegated to late night?  Better to see a sweaty Mike Ditka throwing a football through a tire...oh no, nothing "creepy" there...

MG, RSM, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:58 PM)

I do not think that the implication that men are pigs is demeaning to men. The ad quite clearly is saying that if a man is hitting on a woman with the intention of having UNPROTECTED sex with her, then he is a pig. It is also clearly saying that if he provides his own condom, then he has evolved into a considerate male human.  It is an advertisement aimed at people who can see the humor in their own situation.

Frankie, Spokane, WA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:20 PM)

I'm sure it's a cute commercial and honestly, why is everyone taking it so SERIOUSLY?? Pharm companies can afford to purchase any time slot they want. It's a GAZILLION dollar industry. Compared to condoms that can be found free at any health clinic. Face it, trojan probably has a limited budget for advertising hence the commercial being less appealing for networks wanting to make money. Those who think that your safe because you're "married", statistically in many countries including the US, the infection rate of HIV has risen among GUESS WHO?? Married Women, so yes where God may have a plan for us all, the reality of it is that we are all sexual human beings and remember disease does not discriminate. There is nothing wrong with condoms. Trojan should wrap Paris Hilton in a HUGE condom since the US for some reason can't get enough of her and they would be on every channel every hour of every day and every night.

Felipe, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:20 PM)

Do we really have nothing better to do with our time? Everyone is sitting around dicussing their feelings about a condom comercial.

MDW, San Diego, CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:32 PM)

wow, using humor to promote ALL people staying healthy. KUDOS! Maybe this will also help slow the rate of cervical cancer, as well, since it seems that cervical cancer might be cuased by Human Papilloma Virus.

Raine, South Dakota (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:33 PM)

Oh geez.
Just everyone stop being offended and get off your soap boxes.  It's just a commercial to sell condoms trying to be funny.  That's it.
As to the religious arguement - fine you believe in sex after marriage and that's great.  The reason people started replying to that there are people don't believe what you do.  That's it.  If they can accept and respect your opinion, please accept and respect theirs.
Whatever happened to tolerence and a sense of humor?

JFrank Anastasio, Hartford, CT (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:33 PM)

I'm pretty happy that the ad got banned AND is generating so much buzz. Please, advocates of abstinence, scream your message louder! Honestly, the more attention and discussion is created about the use of condoms and its proven health benefits, the better. But for people on both extreme sides of this debate, let's stop telling each other to get out of the country or to shut up. We NEED to talk. We NEED to discuss this. The biggest problem we have here is that we try to NOT talk about this, and silence is what is letting our children make the decisions without the benefit of our experience. Pigs? Condoms? Bibles? Abstinence? Pick your opinion, but for God's sake, let's TALK about it.

Ren, Seattle, WA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:34 PM)

Obviously, sex is the reason we're all here.  The problem I have is that, like the ED ads, the condom commercials further trivialize and casualize what is a very powerfully volatile phenomenon.  How can we attach moral standards to sex under such conditions?  Such ads all contribute, ever so subtly, but inevitably, to the breakdown of marriage and the dissolution of the family.  If you don't think that's a serious issue, just look at the catastrophic havoc broken marriages, broken families and broken childhoods wreak and the monumental cost of same to society.  This is not a religious issue, it's a practical social problem that such ads only make worse. As a nation, we've got to be tougher on ourselves!

Collingwood Harris; Damascus, Maryland (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:45 PM)

The first rule of advertising is that sex sells. They use sex to sell burgers, cars, beer... why is it so bad to use sex to sell safe sex? I feel that's the best use.

There have been a lot of good points made, but I think one is missing. I think the emphasis was put on men supplying the condoms because most women are on the pill. True, I think that both sexes should take care to have safe sex by whatever means necessary. But since a lot of women shell out $40 a month so they can't get pregnant, I feel the guy should be able to pitch in and buy a 75 cent condom.

Safe sex is the important part of this commercial. Not the fact that they aren't married (which you have no proof they aren't- some married people go out to the bar with each other), not the fact that it promotes sex (which it doesn't- it promotes condoms)and not because the commercial offends your delicate "moral"sensibilities (which it shouldn't, get the stick out of your butt).

The message is just to practice safe sex. And if that means using a little humor and showing guys that it's possible that they look more attractive when they are responsible, then so be it. It works.

Dani, PA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:52 PM)

This is America...Sex Sells!!!...Therefore what's wrong with promoting safe sex???? One ad or commercial where a woman is not being exploited and the nation goes crazy...Get a grip people...

Gloria , Birmingham , Alabama (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:58 PM)

No form of sex is completely "safe" and without risk, however abstinence until marriage, followed by staying sexually exclusive with your mate is the safest practice. Those who disagree can disagree, call names and resort to childish insults all they want, but they know it's true. The problem is that they just don't want to admit it publicly. Here's what I find amusing. Those who hate Christians, or people with religious beliefs in general, are the same ones who preach open mindedness and tolerance. Yet, they're often the most intolerant, bigotted, prejudiced, narrow minded, and thus hypocritical people of all. That's both funny and pathetic.

Jeff, Miami, FL (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:02 PM)

Okay, I watched the ad, and found it freaking hilarious.  Trojan did its job in making us remember this commercial.  The public will debate this commercial, but everyone will remember it.  

I agree with people who say that it's not only the men who need to buy condoms.  We ladies need to be prepared as well.  Okay, so the religious right will see us as sinners, but you know what?  I do not believe that I need to defend myself against them.  It's my business what I do, not theirs.

But for the TV networks to either banish this commercial to the late night time slots or not use the commercial at all is completely idiotic!  I'm sick of the E.D. commercials (some of those can get pretty damn creepy!).  

Sex sells, so why not promote safer sex?

J.L.B., Marquette, Mich. (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:04 PM)

I find it offensive, simply because if those were  women portrait as a hogs, the world would be coming to an end right about now.

Tom Leykis Hollywood CA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:14 PM)

Ryan in San Diego hit the nail on the head!!!!

Everything offends everyone these days and frankly its down right ridiculous. Get over yourself people. If you don't like something don't buy it, watch it, read it, or use it. Don't try and tell somebody else they can't just because you don't like it. It seems that when somebody gets offended by the slightest thing, we all have to pay the price, just so they feel better about themselves. I would tell everybody trying to tell me what I should be able to watch on TV, and what's right or wrong to go "use a Trojan" but then, Hey, I'd be just like you wouldn't I?

Our rights seem to be getting taken away daily by these people who want to tell everybody else how to live. Worry about yourself and let others judge what is right for themselves. As for the networks you idiots keep empowering these people by not going with your gut and running your own business. OOOH we might lose two or three viewers if we air this. I'm sure you all will be making plenty of money whether or not you offend somebody. Believe me it doesn't matter what the topic is, it WILL offend SOMEBODY!!

As for the PIGS, call me or men what you will. I know who and what I am and it doesn't bother me one bit!! RUN THE AD!!!! QUIT LETTING THE SELF-RIGHTIOUS RUN THE COUNTRY!

Patrick, Atlanta, Ga. (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:18 PM)

I "get" the ad.  As a marketing professional I "get" the ad is creepy.  As a liberal individual the pick up line and sex at the bar doesn't "offend" me.

With all that said this ad really bugs me, and I don't know why.

David, Seattle, WA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:35 PM)

I think we're all aware that SOME men are "pigs". I think this ad is clever and it's just playing off a stereotype. Why be offended? It's a harmless joke. I think we're all mature people here and can realize that men are not literally pigs. Get real and don't get your panties in a wad. If Midol wants to make a commercial about women being dogs until they take their meds, so be it. I think we can all accept we're not the nicest people in the world when we have cramps galore. Big whoop.

It's clever advertising. Nothing more. It's not a big deal.

Heather, Panama City, FL (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:53 PM)

For cryin out loud, people, it's FUNNY!! People of all types have helped make sex such a taboo topic, without realizing that it's a natural thing and people are going to do it. So, as a salesperson trying to increase awareness of my product by addressing a serious issue, I include some humor in a commercial that basically reminds people that sex needs to be safe. One night stands happen. People not married have sex. Married people have sex. That doesn't mean any of them want a child yet, or are completely clear of STDs (anyone familiar with "everything-but sex"? That can transmit disease, too.) Unfortunately this isn't a topic up for discussion and folks get riled up by a funny little commercial. What stereotypes are being spread that haven't already? Does anyone really believe them anymore? Some men act "piggish," some women act like the bar is a ticket to a good night. In any case, humor is usually a good way to address these things and the outcry is taking that away from the rest of us. If we can't laugh at things like this and see it for what it is-a fictional situation with a message-then what's left?

Oh, and by the way...Why is no one mad at the new men's body spray commercials-TAG, or AXE? Whichever-that have girls chasing after guys chanting the "bom chicka wom wom" porn theme? Because I feel like I'm in a porn movie whenever I smell something good on a guy. Right.

Gina, Mesa AZ (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:55 PM)

Ok, now, I'm a 17 year old boy. And I hate this ad. No, im not having sex, I wont risk pregnancy messing up my life. But i Liked this ad as much as i hated it. Its funny. But not all the men should be pigs. I dont like teen girls and little girls just assuming men are pigs. Many are, but not all of us. So grow up. It's a stupid commercial either way that gets the point across.

A boy (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 9:09 PM)

WARNING: post from an educated happily-married woman   My 2 cents worth:  "1st cent" - that ad is directed at men & sure a man would find this humorous but "2nd penny", as a woman? I would not want to even get NEAR a man that finds this commercial humorous or (ahem) thinks this is remotely informative or encouraging.

The kind of man (evidently one that would be called a PIG!) this commercial targets is obviously, per Trojan, the kind of guy you would not bring home to mom and pop. Hence the lil piggy factor.  Then to suggest by purchasing a condom, an oink of a dude will transform into being SELLABLE to a woman, that is degrading to all women! (Even the airheads out there.)

If common sense is not telling a guy what is right, but a PIG COMMERCIAL is, then just keep on those lil piggies walking (or flying) by!

Any Jane Doe, Hearland, USA (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 9:21 PM)



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