Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Tyler B, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:30:58 GMT

Who really cares if someone in some other country with different taste buds and taste preferences chooses one burger or the other. Do your test in the U.S.A. so I can relate to who these people are!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Chris, Clarksville, MD — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:56:57 GMT

Come on! Get a sense of humor. These ads are not about taste tests!! This is funny stuff, please don't take it seriously!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jane K — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:59:52 GMT

BK's idea makes me very upset. something like this can destroy a culture and it bothers me a fast food restaurant of all corporations is willing to destroy a culture's values and traditions just so it can sell more burgers. burger king has had some of the worst advertisements on television for years.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Charlotte, Salt Lake City, UT — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 01:48:05 GMT

I agree. Sounded controversial at first, but turned into a bore. (Like so many other things in life...)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

San Diego, Ca — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 02:20:39 GMT

PS: I really don't think this ad was "wierd." Wrong word to describe. Maybe, disconcerting a bit... diquieting, but in the end, moving.

Another ad campaign that totally captivated me was The Brawny Guy. The actor was wondrous - I loved him. The commercials were hilarious, delightful and I've bought tons of Brawny because of it.

Unfortunately I also bought Bounty because I forgot it was "Brawny."

So these two ads are probably the best I've ever seen.

Calling the people Burger King Virgins is not the best, though... something better, more clever would have been appreciated i think.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Tom DeCicco, East Haven, CT — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 04:09:49 GMT

I think the fact that no true statistics were reported was part of the genius of the ad. I wonder if the people in these parts of the world that never ate a burger are vegetarians. Are these people vegetarians? That's okay as neither McDonald's nor Burger King use real meat anyway.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

BK Hater Colorado — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 06:01:26 GMT

and the American mass media sinks a few inches deeper into the sewer. I hope whoever green lighted this campaign is severely punished in some karmic fashion.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Tim - Kentucky — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 06:47:19 GMT

I wonder how many people, if polled, would think you guys are morons for being so critical of this commercial. Seriously, it just takes a slight sense of humor to get it. Do you get irked that 2 out of 3 dentists prefer Trident, and you want to find out who the 3 dentists are that were polled?

C'mon folks. It's a cute little ad, and a novel twist on the taste test theme. I liked the "I prefer whale meat," comment.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

HCB, Aurora,CO — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 08:09:08 GMT

That's what I want to eat!! A food preferred by people whose tastebuds are customarily used to eating either cat, dog, rat, lizard, worm or whale. Mmmmm yummy!!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

LJames, Jacksonville, Florida — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 13:13:51 GMT

Well, I'm one that hates this ad. It's known that cultures that have very little heart disease, diabetes, etc...see a major upswing in those same illnesses once they are introduced to western fast food, garbage food.
I don't know what they were thinking...actually whatever it takes to sell more burgers, regardless of the health implications.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Chris H, Saint Louis — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:20:44 GMT

This ad is neither funny nor cute but totally tasteless and offensive. It has been much criticized in the UK and should be withdrawn from here in the US

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

James, Omaha, NE — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:31:18 GMT

Yes, those commercials are about as bad as the PC/Mac commercials where Mac points out the flaws of Windows while conveniently ignoring their own shortcomings in the same category. In one, they criticize PC for finally advertising their OS, while Mac is obviously spending money to advertise their OS to criticize PC. Not to mention how long Apple has been advertising how much it spends on advertising every year.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Dave Thomas — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 14:34:33 GMT

I find it curious as to how they brought a freshly cooked and prepared whopper as well as a competitor product the big mac(which actually the big N tasty competes more directly with) out to a rural possibly foreign location with no fast food nearby or possibly any kind of facilities to even prepare them freshly for accuracy of the test?...or for that matter, a Mcdonald's rep on hand to assure the Big Mac was even prepared correctly.

Personally, i dont like the big mac's middle bun, theres too much bread these days still in the modern era of lower carbs. But i also dont like the MASSIve amount of sauce slop that they put on whoppers, its always been too much.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

curious — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:06:25 GMT

it isn't really about the big mac versus the whopper...it's about cultures willing to be open to what others have. i thought it was a beautiful piece and it even made me cry a bit. it also made me hungry for a whopper and it's 9 am and i live half an hour from the closest burger king!!!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ron MA — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:16:14 GMT

First off, I never like a commercial that is an ad for an ad. The whole "See the full/real ad at our website" commercial always bothers me. You've got my attention now, show me the ad NOW! What will they say about the burger? Anyone gonna take bets on that one?

If they wanted to get us to view the website, it was a pretty pathetic attempt. "Hi, see our website and see if people like our product." Anyone over the age of 3 can guess that the results they choose to show will be pro Burger King. So why would I waste my time viewing it?

If it's to get me to acknowledge the awesomeness of Burger King over McDonalds, why would I care about the opinions of people I don't know and, by Burger King's own statements, don't even know a proper burger?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Robert White — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:52:20 GMT

I found the ad inane and stupid. Yes, fact less but so is most of the swill we wallow in from commercials and corporate dominated opinion based news.

I also remember the great Dannon ad campaign and how well that played. It didn't make me go out and buy more Dannon yogurt but it did open my eyes to a people that were singularly unimpressed with 'modern technology'. Why do they live so long? Because they aren't immersed in the technology... Life just 'is' for them...

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

TCP, Wichita Falls, TX — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:12:05 GMT

I find it ironic that BK would choose people who's regular diets include seal meat, whale blubber, fermented bird embryos, and other "exotic" foods as spokes persons for their product.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Revolted in Montgomery, AL — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:14:47 GMT

Personally, I find Burger King's latest marketing campaign to be extremely imperialistic and xenophobic. First off, I've been to Thailand, specifically Chang Mai. I ate at a Burger King in Chang Mai. The marketing assumes that non-Americans are underprivileged and are in need of choosing a food that is not necessary.

The commercials' message is clear: "Let's bring in our ways into another culture and see how they like big, American food." These ads are revolting, despicable, and completely turn me off to Burger King.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Em B. Portland Oregon — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:02:27 GMT

It will be funny to see a Greenland Restaurant doing the same test in America... how do you like seal?

I think it is riduculous to push the taste of beef or pickle on culture that cannot produce this ingredients (or raise the animal; we should leave them alone; if they really want to have a taste of another culture they can travel and discover; we shouldn't go there and push our food, our culture, our religions to them.

Welcome world obesity.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Sarah, Denver, CO — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:22:40 GMT

This is one of the worst ad campaigns in a long time. They so disgust me that I mute them or change the channel. While I am not an often fast food eater, I certainly will not be going to Burger King at any point.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

David V. Fort Worth Texas — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:44:37 GMT

Well at least it's better than the big headed Burger King "King" in your bed when you wake up.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Matt, Portland, OR — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:57:19 GMT

The one thing I have been wondering about this so-called experiment is how did they transport the Bic Macs and Whoppers to such remote locations and keep them in such commercial worthy conditions? In every one of the shots they look like burgers they would photograph for advertising. BK = BS

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

JM, Adel, IA — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:50:18 GMT

Why would I want the opinion of someone that has never eaten beef before? I would be interested in what type of meat they are comparing this to. I'm afraid it may be something I call a pet.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Dan, NC — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:56:54 GMT

I believe this ad was done by CP+B in Miami. The fact that MSNBC would have a blog discussion about it plays right into the agency's hand. The ad itself is rather blah. But the fact it creates any sort of public discussion about political correctness or controversy is certainly to the agency's liking. Whenever this ad is discussed, regardless of context, "Whopper" will be said. And you get the Whopper at Burger King. If the agency can get the Burger King brand on people's lips, there's a better chance those people will put their lips on a Whopper. Burger Cha-Ching! Well done, Alex!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Tonya, Gig Harbor, Wash — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:18:44 GMT

I've never cared for the Burger King commercials. The mascot guy is real creepy, and it didn't help having them make a commercial with some poor guy waking up with this clown in his bed.

Now they're using the word "virgin" in an ad that is run during all hours of the day. I didn't really care much for my young son asking me what a virgin is. Right now he is too young for that discussion.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Rachel, Grand Rapids, Michigan — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:20:53 GMT

I don't see why they had to go to all of these different countries when I have had neither a Big Mac nor a Whopper and I'm right here in the USA.

My friends, upon seeing the commercial, commented that of course everyone loved the Whopper, the Big Mac is gross.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

t wolfe, OKC, OK — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:25:00 GMT

These are the stupidest commercials ever. I don't care who these people are, where they live or what burger they prefer. It doesn't make me think a whopper is better or make me want to go to burger king for any reason. Just stupid.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

I could write a better ad, how much do these guys get paid? — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:26:43 GMT

"The lack of concrete data raises the question of whether, overall, the Whopper was the favorite, or whether they just choose to feature the anecdotal stories of those that preferred the Whopper."
--Wow, you sure know a lot about ads. That would make for a doosie. I hope in the excitement that they don't forget to explain how they calculated the standard error. Fascinating, yes!

--Seriously though, this is one commercial I have scene. Which burger is one going to pick? The BigMac bought at some earlier point that looks sickly or the fresh-made Whopper that looks better than any Whopper I've ever eaten--well, that was before I stopped eating at the King after a bad experience. If Allison Linn wants to complain about an ad, she should target the observable deceptive practices of advertising (for instance, food on packaging labels always looks better than how I make it) rather than the pseudo-scientific method of a Gimmick!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Brian H., Studio City, CA — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:56:25 GMT

Dear MSNBC,

This is now my second plea to find a new ad "critic" (See previous Arby's entry).

I don't mean to offend Ms. Linn, but she continues to either take a simple television advertisement way to seriously or she cannot grasp subtleties in humor. In this case, it's both.

I haven't seen all of the ads, but the ones I have seen seem to be purposefully deadpan. Almost Buster Keaton-esque in their response to eating a hamburger. The humor of the deadpan delivery is heightened by the juxtaposition of the "virgins" wearing their traditional garb.

I'm not saying the ad works. I only find it mildly amusing. But to overly concern yourself with the "a-ha" moment or "concrete data" misses the point of the ad. It's an AD, not scientific research.

If you really want an intelligent negative critique of the ad, you could mention the xenophobic nature of making the "virgins" dress in traditional garb, or ask the question: Do we really need to export obesity and clogged arteries to rural international communities?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Sarah, IL — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:58:07 GMT

At least these commercials are better than the ones featuring the creepy King. He's something that little kids would have nightmares about.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

AW, St. Louis, MO — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:06:33 GMT

The marketing campaign succeeded in what it set out to do. It got everyone talking about it.

While many might argue whether or not it was in distaste, it does not come close to the failed attempt at shock marketing that Quizno's tried several years back with their singing and dancing dead rats. Lets also not forget the man accused of being raised by a pack of wolves because he was a sloppy eater, in which case the next scene showed him suckling on a wolf's teet. That campaign has completely and utterly turned me off to eating there for the past 7-8 years.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

J.J. Park City Utah — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:13:35 GMT

The burger virgin experiment would be interesting to see first-hand. How so? I'd like to know who got sick after their first bite. Hamburgers to a foreign stomach, I think would be quite a shock to the digestive system of an adult who has never eaten a hamburger before. Children - their stomachs are pretty resilient, and more open to experimentation with foreign foods. But the adults, I think would have a hard time digesting a greasy, American fast-food hamburger if they had never eaten one before.

Many posts I have seen have implicated that the ad campaign is a joke, and therefore should not be taken seriously. And that is good advice if it wasn't for one factor - Burger King takes this ad campaign very seriously. No ad campaign is a joke - millions are spent to prepare and execute these campaigns; and millions of dollars is something you don't joke about. If this campaign fails - Burger King is the BIG loser. Not only have they wasted millions of dollars amidst a major recession - they also risk their reputation. And that is a BIG deal.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Tom Lebanon, NH — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:49:48 GMT

They are trying to sell a product...let's all take a deep breath here people !

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ryan, NJ — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 21:52:00 GMT

They should include footage of these Whopper virgins' trips to bathroom afterwards.

But seriously, I find these ads subtly disturbing and certifiably unfunny.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Former Burger King fan — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:08:42 GMT

So..... the message from the ad is, "If you enjoy Burger King, you share the same preferences as ignorant, uneducated, unsophisticated peasants in third world countries". Great.

I mean really... is that the message that Burger Kings really wants to put out? Its about as stupid an ad campaign as I've ever seen. Do they seriously think Americans will buy more of their burgers because we see they are preferred by some toothless hag in upper Mongolia? Personally, it makes me want to stop eating at Burger King. After all, I consider myself to be more educated then those people, and if they like something, then it must be pretty bad! After all, those are the same people that cook dogs and eat unhatched duck embryos.

Whoever thought up this ad campaign should be fired... and then flame broiled!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Joshua Howard, Tacoma, WA — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:09:06 GMT

How rotten! If true, they're fiddling with other people's cultures; if it's a joke, it's poking fun at people who are different than we are. "They were very generous," said the advertisement. My response? Thanks to Burger King, they will soon be very fat as well. Yet another reason for me not to frequent fast food joints.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

jake ford, puyallup, washington — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:21:36 GMT

i myself find the whole thing a hoax because they didnt even say which one was liked better. i like the big-mac!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Stacy, St. Louis, MO — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:29:53 GMT

I agree, Sarah from IL! That King was positively frightening. Brian H. - the blog was created to discuss the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of ad campaigns. The author is simply saying that, with all of the drama that B.K. is promoting by bringing in foreigners to taste the burger, the ad really doesn't prove anything. And a company should not spend money on something that does not impart anything to the viewer -- information, humor, validation of choice, etc.

Hey, doesn't someone want to ask the question: why does Burger King trust foreigners to be more honest about the taste of their burgers than people who eat them everyday? Why do they think that WE would trust them more than our own opinions, especially since they wouldn't know a good burger period?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jackie M — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:45:17 GMT

I thought these ads were tongue-in-cheek and not serious -- like the King himself. Oh my, is he for real too?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Deb — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:46:18 GMT

Burger King has issued so many awkward ads lately that I am not surprised they have elevated that awkwardness to the downright boring. BUT I am glad to not have to cringe at the creepy King!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Sean, Ann Arbor, Mich — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:00:05 GMT

I haven't gone to the website to watch the videos, but I'm wondering why we're taking at face value that all these taste-test participants aren't actors playing their roles specifically for a deadpan humor effect. I mean, that's what I thought when I saw the spot. The quality is too good, the lighting is too even for it to be an outdoor setting with a backdrop, and the sound is almost non-existant in the spots I've seen. I see that and it tells me it was done in the studio. Much cheaper than flying a camera crew all over the world, huh?

Also, I think the intellectual point they are going for here is to suggest that even if someone has never seen a burger *ad*, and doesn't have a preconceived idea about what a burger should taste like, the Whopper will win out as better food. Of course, tthe anti-intellectual point is that people in other cultures wear weird outfits to taste-tests. Maybe it works, maybe it doesn't. I think it's just a tonal miss that too many people are reading more into than is there since the thematic focus is a mess and doesn't tell the audience how to think about the spot. oh, well.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Brandon — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:04:34 GMT

It amazes me how many people here somehow think Burger King just destroyed these people's culture. If eating one burger was the last straw for their societies, I'm pretty sure things weren't too stable prior to that first bite.

That is if you believe that these were actual real people from remote areas of the world in the first place and not some clever attempt at satire on the ridiculousness of taste-test ads and the Soda/Burger Wars in general.

People need to lighten up. If your biggest cause for concern over the health of our planet and species is Burger Ads, you're leading a pretty sweet life I'm guessing.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Kentucky Betty — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:10:58 GMT

All I could hear was six-year-olds all over the country asking "mommy what's a virgin?"
And isn't the implication that Burger King is taking their virginity? Wierd? Yes, but creepy is more to the point.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

David Morris Emu Plains NSW Australia — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:20:36 GMT

I ate my first Big Mac, at the first Big Mac outlet in Sydney Australia, about 30 odd years ago. Ate the hamburgers produced by the original Burgher King at Ludenham outer syney suberb. A small shop that produced hamburgers a couple at a time on a hot plate. The name Burgher King was eventually bought out in Australia by Hungry Jacks, to become the fast food outlet that it is today. Out of the three style of hamburgers I prefer the original Burgher King from Ludenham, hand crafted with tender loving care. The original recipe was. A buttered split round bread bun from the local bakery, minced beef, flattened on the hot plate. This was placed on the bun with fried sliced onion,lettuce, a slice of tomatoe, and a slice of beetroot. A special had a slice of pineapple usually fried on the hot plate. Unfortunatly nothing today even resembles this, perhaps if the participents had been given an original Australian Burger King they may have had amazed delight on their faces instead of bland disinterest. Oh how the modern generation have missed out on the pleasures of the past.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jean Baltimore, Maryland — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:42:56 GMT

Why do we care what BK advertises?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jean Baltimore, Maryland — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 23:45:56 GMT

Why do we care what BK advertises?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Sal, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:05:38 GMT

TRASH! It's off to Chick-fil-A for me

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

eeewwwww, long island — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 00:46:56 GMT

i was watching the "bizarre foods" show a few weeks ago where the stocky bald guy goes around the world and eats their weird foods....well at one stop they offer him fresh blood to drink (goat i think) and the usual all kinds of other nasty food thats par for the show (mostly parts of the animal that americans normally throw away). our bald american friend thought it was gross of course, but appreciatively obliged, and in return offered them some cheese. or did he just tell them about cheese? i cant remember. what i do recall is that they all nearly threw up in their mouths at the thought of eating cheese--rotten milk clotted together and cut into chunks!!???--they squealed. EEEWWWW!

there are many people in the world who would never even put a piece of cheese in their mouths, let alone a whopper. i dont even know if this is real; if it is, its likely the equivalent of "which do you prefer: chicken beaks on a stick, or rat tar tar?" not quite the ringing endorsement BK is letting on.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Bernhard, Memphis TN — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 01:09:53 GMT

When you are raised on boiled pig-nuts and flash-fried chicken innards your taste-buds may be pre-conditioned to eat just about anything! I wonder if they would enjoy washing down Burgerking's finest with American PABST blue ribbon swill beer, reminiscient of fine unadulterated pony urine?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Thrashie in Florida — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:24:07 GMT

Who made the Big Mac's? Was McDonalds with them as well for this, winner gets to make the commercial? or did BK fry/nuke up McD's burgers?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Reg, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 03:08:33 GMT

What's really funny is that the tagline should read "Here's another American fast food conglomerate Bringing cardiovascular destruction to a pristine culture near you"

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

mardi hammerberg ridgecrest ca — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 03:09:15 GMT

Why would anyone, who eats whole foods and has a lower percentage of saturated fats in their diet than most Americans, eat Burger King's fat laden empty calories?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

mardi hammerberg ridgecrest ca — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 03:11:16 GMT

Why would anyone, who eats whole foods and has a lower percentage of saturated fats in their diet than most Americans, eat Burger King's fat laden empty calories?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ken in Boston — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 04:04:25 GMT

Get a life people. It's just a funny commercial.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Michael, Georgia — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 04:21:51 GMT

Little kids? I'm 42 and I still have nightmares about that creepy King lol.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

joemer, momolopolous, New Jersy — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 04:26:28 GMT

Whoever writes this stuff is stupid. Any of you may disagree, but this is stupid. This person analyzes Commercials. Commercials noone gives a second thought about, but maybe smirks or chuckles at. You have to admit though. This is a decent job. If I could write articles aimlessly finding the controversy in 15 second ad spots while getting paid, I'd do it.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Julie S., Burbank, CA — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 05:03:13 GMT

I want to know how all of these people can actually be whopper "virgins" when in one town, the test lady says says that the stores (meaning Burger King or McDonalds) had to be close enough that they could buy the food, bring it to the people, and have them eat the burgers within 15 minutes of it being bought. If there's a McDonalds or Burger King that close, doesn't it seem that maybe some of those "virgin villagers" might have traveled to their nearest Burger King or McDonalds?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

David Silverlight, Miami FL — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 05:53:20 GMT

They should have the Creepy King guy sitting in the corner while the people are tyring it. :) They should also do a "where are they now" follow up showing the people a year later.... obese...clogged arteries... but probably very happy.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Meg, Denton, TX — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:22:14 GMT

Makes me want to go get a Whopper, plus some spicy Thai food.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Bradley Chas Champaign, IL — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:33:14 GMT

These commercials are the height of godless wickedness. These poor people have been defiled by these Whoppers. Now they are no longer Whopper Virgins, they are Whopper Sluts.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jeffery Lebowski, Edge of Insanity, US — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:32:30 GMT

Wow. Just wasted a lot of time reading that (and all of the responses). Brian H from studio city salvaged the whole lot though, so I don't completely regret the experience. I agree, this Allison Linn lady has to go. Horrible critique of a perfectly legitimate ad campaign. There are soooooooooo many worse commercials on the air today. To any smart person that may read this: we're losing.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Dan, East Windsor, NJ — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 07:53:13 GMT

Brian H. - the entire point of the ad is to go to the web-site and see that BK supposedly has solid, scientific data. i could agree with you if the web site wasn't mentioned in the commercial or they didn't have a dedicated web site called whoppervirgins.com; additionally, i can only imagine what else must come up if someone actually searches that string.

i'm still trying to figure out how they convinced these people to try something they don't even have a word for =)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Mary A., Baltimore, MD — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:04:12 GMT

I am saddened by the fact that, in today's communication age, many cannot comprehend the word "virgin" without a sexual connotation. I enjoyed the commercial.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Don Dowling, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:37:14 GMT

If they were so remote, how did they prepare the burgers (BK's AND Mickey D's)to keep them fresh and right out of the kitchen?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

R MacDonald, Oakbrook, IL — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:12:55 GMT

Why advertise? It's not a product I buy once every few years. By this time in life I've found which one I like. And it's a tie! They're both OK. I usually buy by the promotions (price) anyway.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

I.M. Gullible, Page, AZ — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 11:56:18 GMT

This country is filled with bonestupid folks, apparently. There were no taste tests. They weren't real. Cultures were not invaded, cultures were not ruined. bonestupid, america, bonestupid. But then, 75% of you believe in angels...

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ronald M — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:01:51 GMT

I like whoppers even though they're microwaved and have too much mayo. They have the flame broiled flavor. I like big macks a lot too. I dont eat either of them much any more cause they're so unhealthy.

This commercial concept is about as stupid as the rest of their commercials. The worst in the fast food industry. A creepy king and his ugly virgins. Just like the resteraunt chain itself. Burger king is the bottom of the barrel in the fast food indusrty. Mainly found in ghetto's off main highways. I've noticed a lot of their resteraunts closing lately too.

They need to call the Jack In The Box commercial guys. Now those are some great commercials! Spot on every time.

At a low point when I was younger I worked at a Burger King near the airport and we had a major problem with rodents running out into the lobby while customers were eating. We literally would beat mice with the end of a broom stick to kill them. They might want to mention that to the virgins before they're deflowered by the king.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Chris, Madison Heights, Michigan — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:33:37 GMT

Their food is crap and so are their ads.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Indygirl — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 13:04:53 GMT

I think Burger King is reaching a little too far for this one. I don't the commercials have any lasting effect on the people they're interviewing (other than a little weight gain for having come to appreciate American fast food), but I thought it was a little embarrassing that an American company would go in and use a word (virgin, with a sexual connotation and tone of voice in the narrator) to describe people that are obviously largely untouched by savvy (tongue in cheek) American marketers. I could've done without this string of commercials. Besides that, the tone of the narrator also makes me think of old National Geographic narration, which is a little insulting because it makes me recall shows where they were doing a documentary on "the growth & mating cycle of the African gazelle" or something. They're people with dignity, not animals. Doesn't paint these lovely people with much dignity, in my opinion.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

B-man Chicago, Illinois — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 13:37:26 GMT

Well BK has always pursued a certain type of client and you have to wonder what these people are thinking that use these ad companies. I haven't cooked at home in 20 years and frequent BK a couple times a week, well not anymore. It signals the mindset of a company and its target audience and its just not for me. Its bad enough everybody else seems to think you have to tie your product in with perversion or sexuality so I just won't buy from those who use ads that aren't appropriate, just like I won't buy from spammers and pop-ups that invade my emails. Perhaps if enough people are fed up and boycott they will start getting back to reality. Yes I will remember the ad and no I will no longer buy the product!!!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

J Dough — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 13:47:32 GMT

Curious must either be an idiot or lost its virginity to a foreign football team, more likely is the type thats works for BK, made you cry????how pathetic!!!...Save the planet buy a bag of frozen burgers and cook them at home....

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

John Q. — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:00:04 GMT

They aren't virgins anymore. They were corporate raped and will die of high cholesterol and heart disease should have abstained or used 4 condoms for safety. Its really tasteless and those who say its funny should talk to a professional because you must like getting gang-raped by advertising companies even bad-taste,uncreative loser ones, can't find the humor because there isn't any, just stupid! They deserve to loose business after approving another idiot series advertising campaign. The teenager that came up with ad is laughing all the way to the bank saying there's a sucker born every minute...Even worst are the suckers that buy it as a legit ad! Besides their mascot does look really weird maybe like chester the molester hmmm wouldn't want my kids going to a restaurant like that!!!!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Kevin in Topeka — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:02:30 GMT

Why do middle-class American's always need to find the grass greener somewhere else? Clogged arteries and heart disease? What about infant mortality, death in childbirth, and undiagnosed cancer that the isolated rural poor suffer? Let's not compare life spans or we'll lose that self-satisfied luster.

The ad is just off-mark and annoying. So is the 'King'. I wouldn't step into either a Burger King or a McDonalds due to their ads.

Still, McDonald's does earn my business once in a while-- at Chipotle.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Sue Sue — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:26:46 GMT

Who cares? Really. . .who care what BK or Micky D's advertise? Who cares what or where they advertise? I don't eat their food, personally.. .though I will say that back in the day, Micky D's had the best french fries. No analysis needed. It's a commercial on television that can be skipped by hitting the next channel in a rapid fashion to avoid getting lured into the magic of the BK moment. Now loosen up those fingers, grab that remote and FORGET ABOUT IT!!!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Doe Eyes — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 14:41:11 GMT

Now there's an idea...have someone who's grown up on basic, unprocessed staples suddenly eat a 1,000 calorie sandwich filled with high high amounts of processed fats and oils.

I'd like to see what happened AFTER the taste tests, in the bathroom. Much indigestion, vomiting and/or diarrhea, I'm guessing.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

MikeInIndy, Indianapolis, IN — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:28:55 GMT

I didn't think the people were from other countries; I assumed they were actors. In the one ad I've seen, tasting both burgers and pointing to one isn't exactly a ringing endorsement. Burger King comes up with another stupid ad, to go with the creepy mascot ones.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Paul, Seattle — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:37:59 GMT

The ad is culturally insensitive, is bad for America’s image in the world, promotes an unhealthy diet, and the choice of the term “virgin” was in bad taste.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Clayton Herron Demorest, Ga. — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 15:54:38 GMT

I'm an American man married to a wonderful Russian woman, when my wife first came to America to live with me she had a problem with my eating habits, especaly fast food, she simply wouldn't eat it. Home made hambergers are one of our favorate meals but she wont eat at fast food resturants because she says she can taste the FAT in the food.

a

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Missy, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:01:12 GMT

I have a fantastic sense of humor (that includes alot of offensive material) and these commericials were just stupid. It is just arrogant to treat people that are "not like us" like a circus side show. Plus Burger King's food is just so disgusting, the poor people were probably fighting the urge to vomit upon trying it.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Larry Klebart Dover,Delaware — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:02:35 GMT

this add is really an insult to the countries that are potrayed in the commercial, the people in these countries are not as dumb or ignorant as the marketing idiots want us to think, i have spent 6 years in foreign countries, thailand, turkey, iceland etc,no wonder americans arent liked with their pompous attitudes which are motivated by corporate greed .

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Antonio Trotta — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:09:21 GMT

We at Burger King would like to thank the media for playing into our hands and providing us additional exposure for our product! Thank you so much for being the controllable Lemmings that you are and increasing our profits during the recession.

The Management!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Greg in Houston — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:23:06 GMT

BK's marketing team is horrendous and has been for YEARS. They should all be fired...but that would be too soft of a response. They should be banned from working here in the states henceforth.

What is the last good commercial that these guys have come up with....come on....think people....

Nope...nothing. Remember these are the folks that thought revitalizing the creepy king was a good idea.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Anthony, People's Republic of San Francisco — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:49:57 GMT

How many of you donated to PETA after Pepsi had the bears doing P-E-P-S-I to the YMCA theme?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Pound — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:00:37 GMT

This ad makes me so mad. I wanted a couple free burgers! lol Gimme a freakin break. Its a burger ad. Should they have posted on the screen at the end, "No foreigners were harmed during this commercial." lol

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Michael, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:01:08 GMT

Based on the website, it does not appear that the Big Mac and the Whopper were delivered to the remote locations for taste testing. In fact, it looked like the 'testers' were brought to a location that was within 15 minutes of a Burger King and a McDonald's. Also based on the website, only the Burger King Whoppers, made on a special portable grill, were brought back to the villages.

As for everyone wondering if these people are actors or true testers, the website clearly states that they are not actors.

Finally, as far as all of you, who are concerned about the use of the word 'virgin' on television, please go get a dictionary. You might learn that virgin can refer to something other than a person who has never had sexual intercourse. Have you ever heard of virgin snow, virgin wool or virgin olive oil? How would you explain all that to your children? I have to ask, do you also shelter your children from the Virgin Mary, as how would you want to explain that one! (Sarcasm)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Rico Suave — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:27:55 GMT

I like the BK "King" adds. He is funny and freaky! I prefer Mc D's food however. Breakfast is best and then the nuggets and doublecheeseburgers hold the pickles and extra onions. Yum!!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Justin, Boston, MA. — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:55:50 GMT

It's this type of idealology that makes our country the most hated in the world. Why doesn't Pfizer travel to these countries and do a "Viagra Virgins" spot (tee-hee), or maybe Microsoft can do a "Vista Virgins" spot? Burger King is imperializing these nations with this sort of tom-foolery advertising and it needs to stop.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Bill, Ithaca NY — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:29:39 GMT

Do these ad gurus really believe there's a single person left in the US who hasn't tried both the Whopper and the Big Mac, and decided on this already? While this ad is somewhat interesting (let's set aside the moral judgment folks, there's no room for morality in advertising anyway), i'm not sure how compelling it is . . .

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Brent, indianapolis, in — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:31:25 GMT

You people need to grow up, its a damn commercial. the whole point is to say "which burger tastes better". That's why they are stating these people "have never" had a burger before. Think to yourself, hmmm...whats the best way to prove our product is better than our competition. AH! find someone who's never tried a burger before. The stupid fool who said in his comment. " Who really cares if someone in some other country with different taste buds and taste preferences chooses one burger or the other. Do your test in the U.S.A. so I can relate to who these people are! " How ignorant can you be. Are you 8 years old? ITS ADVERTISING. Come taste our product, not our competition. Grow up people, its a damn commercial. It's sad that some of you have let this piece of advertisment effect your life.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Dan, Orange County, Calif. — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:34:08 GMT

I am of romanian background and by seeing this ad I can not relate myself to these romanian people. There are burger joints in romania, only some people living in the mountains don't care about american food. That doesn't make them cavemen, could be about traditions and old age!?! This ad reminds me about the movie borat, totally tasteless and offensive. Good one Burger King!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

J Poodleman, Rockford, Il — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:36:51 GMT

Good Lord! The media should put the energy they put into scrutinizing this ad into more worthwile causes. Nobody put a gun to these peoples heads to eat a whopper, and don't tell me they didn't know it was meat. Stupid ad - yes, destroying remote cultures - no. Next please!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ken Mundelein IL — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:39:05 GMT

WOW people! These are ads for bad food, that will make you fat, and eventually kill you. Have a laugh and control yourself if you can.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Nathan Arizona — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:54:09 GMT

Completely silly and yet one more reason to turn off the television at least once in a while. I don't trust marketers to be the slightest bit honest and never go in BK or McD. That said, I'm off to Wendy's or Arby's :-)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Claudia, Phoenix AZ — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 19:36:36 GMT

I am originally from one of the countries featured in this ad and I find this ad offensive and stupid!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Carls Jr Fan, CA — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 19:40:03 GMT

I doubt they'd get the same "results" in a taste test against Carls Jr.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

cerealspiller — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:38:45 GMT

Tonya, you so funny. I guess George Carlin should have added "virgin" to the list of words you shouldn't say on TV, so folks like you wouldn't have to explain to their kids what it means. Do you keep your kids out of church so you won't have to deal with the Virgin Mary?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Joe — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 21:32:49 GMT

After reading these comments, I want to go live with the whopper virgins. Get a sense of humor folks.

Asking the opinion of someone about how a food tastes will not damage a culture, unless that culture for some reason is extremely fragile to being with.

It’s not like BK went into rural Iceland, gave burgers away like a crack dealer and then opened 1000 BKs on every functioning ice road in the country. They PAID people to eat burgers on camera and spun the results to advertise burgers to the west.

The marketing here isn’t targeted at rural Iceland, it’s targeted at fat westerners. I suspect that’s the real reason so many people take offense to it. "BOO HOO I got fat from eating fast food. Its fast food's fault not my own so I’m going to get mad at their advertising"

To the people complaining about the use of the term virgin, you might want to LOOK IT UP. Definition 4B from Webster: a person who is inexperienced in a usually specified sphere of activity <a virgin in politics>

Your ignorance is not BK's fault.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Mizundastood — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 21:48:46 GMT

that "creepy king and his ugly virgins." HA! yup, that about sums up BK's advertising for the last year. how UN-appetizing! makes me hungry for a nice nutitious salad.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

K.A. in Washington — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 21:58:31 GMT

Who really cares? It's a joke and it should be just laughed at. There are worse things happening in the world that we should be upset over.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Hohum, Orange County, CA — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 22:54:23 GMT

Do we really care?
All I want to know is whether the eaters were paid or not?
And how long it will take them to have a health and weight problem once they start eating any fast food for too long?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

joe, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 22:59:41 GMT

Who cares... The plastic burger king face is freakishly awesome!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Don L Johnson, Kingsville, Texas, USA — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 23:08:27 GMT

Having traveled extensively to remote area of the world I find this whole concept demeaning to the people of these locations. First I didn't get the impression that the "Test Team" had any notion of when these people where 'pulling their American legs'.
Now, if you had given them a Snickers and a Mars Bar you might have gotten honest replies.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Robert Dora, AL — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 01:09:40 GMT

**I wonder if they would enjoy washing down Burgerking's finest with American PABST blue ribbon swill beer, reminiscient of fine unadulterated pony urine?***

Bernhard, just how much pony urine have YOU drank?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Accipiter, Manchester CT — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 03:29:44 GMT

I'm curious how Burger King is able to transport a burger possibly hours to these remote locations and still have it fresh. Unless, of course, they make it on-site, which means it is of course going to taste different than the assembly-line Whopper you get in your local strip-mall Burger King.

As for the Big Mac, if these people are, as we presume, in such remote locations that fast food restaurants are non-existent, how do they get a Big Mac out there? Since it's Burger King doing the 'research,' obviously they can't make a McDonald's sandwich on site. They must have to travel with one made hours ago at a McDonalds.

Of course a cold burger is going to taste worse than one that was probably prepared on-site with great care. That being said, I'm disgusted that a fast-food chain is contaminating these cultures with their filthy 'food.' Fast-food is garbage. It's really no mystery why Americans are more obese than most other cultures; we're obsessed with our junk food.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Barbara Wright, Bridgeview, Il — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 04:00:37 GMT

That is a weird commercial. For once they did not have that goofy Big Headed King around.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Desmond, San Francisco, CA — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 17:12:39 GMT

You're too pretty to be so derogatory to these commercials, Allison. The Burger King commercials are very funny. True, a little subdued, but very different and that is key. I've never wanted a Whopper so bad, and it's been years since I had BK. And BTW, coming from a man's point of view, the doghouse commercial by JC Penneys was passed from man to man to man via email, and became a viral sensation, also. Unfortunately, I think marketing dropped the ball in not turning this creative ad into massive sales--there should have been some direct link to the website in a more creative way...Anyway, my point is that it's good to see these companies choosing to be creative.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

DGol, California — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 21:26:49 GMT

I can see how they get a Whopper out there in the middle of nowhere, because they make Whoppers. But how do they get the Big Mac?? Oh, I get it -- they serve a fresh Whopper and a cold, days-old Big Mac. Gee, I wonder which one people will prefer?

This ad campaign is a loser for soooo many reasons ...

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

punk — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 00:34:39 GMT

one word. SICK

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Merrill — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 03:25:58 GMT

They should let starved, rabid hyenas make the choice.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Stephanie — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 06:59:10 GMT

The best part of this ad so far has been the comments posted here. Someone said it's just an ad, yes please calm down, I don't think it's offensive to any culture, it's not especially funny but at least it's different from what we see everyday, advertisement has become a part of our lives anyway, no way escaping it, if you don't want to buy the product fine but don't take it so personally or seriously ;)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

"Jane Doe", Ohio — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 08:07:36 GMT

I prefer McD's commericals "nuggetized" because "nuggetized" is much better than "whopper virgins"

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Angelica, Jersey City, NJ — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 14:51:51 GMT

I don't understand why some people are so racist. If you didn't like BKs add fine but don't insult, or feel superior, or make ignorant comments about this foreign people culture. They eat what nature provides them.
And because they eat different from us does not mean they eat whatever. What is so great about our eating habits?? We eat processed foods filled with chemical and sodium. We are the ones that are eating real garbage. Soda, chips,hot dogs, candy bars, donuts, salad dressings, cookies, etc. There is nothing nutritional or 100% natural or healthy about them. Our taste buds are deteriorated by years of consuming sugary, fatty, salty and over processed "food".
Us Americans have not right to judge any body or any culture.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

j.olson — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:58:51 GMT

This is stupid. The worst part that this adverstisement will not help sell anything. Burger King's marketing is unethical, unclever, and irresponsible. I really don't think anyone ever really chooses one fast food over another cause of the taste of the food. Everyone knows that their food is unhealthy; that is like telling a smoker that smoking unhealthy - duh! Everyone knows. So, this totally negates any kind of effect on sales that this ad could cause. Does anyone care what another person thinks of a certain food? No - another reason the ad is worthless. Kudos to the no-talent ass clowns of Burger King. Do the world a favor and cease all your shoddy marketing, and just keep serving your slop - the time starved nonplanning desperados will still come.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Al, Kokomo, IN — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 16:02:04 GMT

Severly criticized in the UK - so we should remove the ad here? On the contrary Watson - we should play it double now. Get a grip. Whopper Virgins was great creativity and an interesting concept. Didn't come off as well as expected though.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jon, Fort Worth TX — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 16:07:45 GMT

I think the ads are great! The ads are innovative and unique. It's like the taste tests between Coke and Pepsi back in the day.

Go Burger King!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

KellyKansas City Mo — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 17:12:54 GMT

I don't eat at McD's or BK. However I do like a good commercial. This one wasn't that. It was more likened to rape of a culture instead of a taste test

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Moo Cow Tucson AZ — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 17:33:01 GMT

All you people flipping out over this ad are doing EXACTLY what the burger company wants. Y'all are just playing into their hands and I think it's funny as hell. Life must be pretty good to have so much time to spend being bent out of shape over a commercial for hamburgers. Sheese!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Lee, Washington Utah — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 17:34:55 GMT

I like the comment from one of you that said she didn't like her son asking what a virgin is. A virgin is someone who has not tried something. simple as that. why do you need to bring sex into something all the time. The word virgin does not have to be about sex, it is just your dirty mind that links to it.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Dave - Columbus, Ohio — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 19:46:46 GMT

The ads definitely fall flat. I've never once seen the ad and thought to myself: "I've got to see what the results are." I just don't care. Burger King's ads in general are a big failure to me. I'm not sure if they're supposed to be funny, stupid, ironic, or whatever. Everyone I see I'm either completely bored or creeped out (that burger king king is just f-r-e-a-k-y).

Personally, I prefer the flavor of a Whopper over a Big Mac. But I won't ever buy a Whopper again because Burger King has no clue about customer service, even at the most basic level. (You can't even email them compliments or complaints about their products or service on their website; they're more interested in Flash presentations.)

So Burger King has failed in two ways. Oh well...there's always McDonalds and Wendy's.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Joel, Philadelphia, PA — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 04:39:13 GMT

Why don't they bring the Whopper & Big Mac to places where they really need food???

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Moon Rabbit — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 10:27:54 GMT

This THING about virgins and virginity...uh...we all KNOW how we lose our virginity...right?..so this means that Burger King IS actually doing THAT to US...weird...weird...weird...think I'll stick to making MY OWN burgers thank you very much!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

BBQ King Hermitage, PA — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 13:34:45 GMT

Have we regressed so far as a society that these stupid, inane comercials inspire us to go out and buy this product? Who's making the decisions to approve these moronic, insulting ads? And it just isn't Burger King who is airing trash ads; look at Wendy's, McDonalds, Toyota, Nissan...I could go on and on.

Whatever happened to the catchy jingles of yesteryear?

Personally, these insulting, un-original ads move me to avoid these companies. I'm thinking cookout.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ronni Hawlcomb,Liberty, S.C. — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 13:51:34 GMT

I think these ads are terrible. On the other hand I like the reverse pick pocket ads. Burger king should can the whopper virgin ads and try to expand on the reverse pick pocket theme.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jon Ander, Seattle, Wash — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 14:14:14 GMT

Burger King refused to pay an additional nickel per pound in Florida that would have helped raise the income of Tomato Pickers... McDonald's, Taco Bell and Wendy's had agreed that $10,000 per year was not enough to live on.... Burger King does not value the workers out in the fields. Burger King does not value the workers in their Restaurants and Burger King does not value their customers!

Question: Have you ever walked into a Burger King that was clean? (I haven't!)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jon Ander, Seattle, Wash — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 14:32:07 GMT

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Lynn, Wisconsin — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 19:16:59 GMT

I have always considered Burger King to have horrible Marketing ads. They continue to get worse. As for fast food and obesity, you are what you eat. You can go to McDonalds and eat healthly (salads and parfaits). And...the meat is 100% beef.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

allan mckinley — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 20:59:04 GMT

Please be a little more polite in your ads. To use such terms as "virgin wopper tasters" is truly offensive and surely doesn't make me want to go out and buy one. just neede to tell you how some of the public feels about this ad. Thanks

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Dan, San Antonio, TX — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 03:35:57 GMT

I see Dave Thomas signed in on this one. Good Job Dave!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Alex Goldsby Madison, WI — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:21:01 GMT

Hmmmmmm How did they buy a fresh Whopper and a fresh Big Mac in a rural area and sevrve them with-in 15 minutes to people who could than by default live with in 15 minutes of the purchase place and claim that those people have never tasted a burger?

If taste testers live with-in 15 minutes of the establishments where the burger was made, they have a big problem with the claim that the samplers are virgins to burgers.

As for the portable flame broiler that is a big waste of money for a 2 minute commercial with a low retention and low effectiveness to sell Americans Whoppers. I just dont see people running out to buy Whoppers because of this experiment.

The only influence is a negative impact to the cultures that may possibly seek to eat unhealthy westrn food.

On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being very effective and influencing for sales) I would rate this a 2.

On a scale of 1 to 10 ( 10 being highly creative) I would rate this a 7.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Troy Rudd, Rochester, Indiana — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 19:55:45 GMT

Funny? Nope, not really.
Proof Whopper is better? Again, not so much.

The better question is: Were they meant to be?
Again, I have to say - NO!

I really believe it was simply meant to be a "human interest" picece that woould cause discussion and debate about Burger King and the Whopper. Guess what folks... BK just won! (like it or not)

A couple complaints I would like to address:
1. Neither BK nor McD will be opening a local store in these villiages. Nobody was forcing western ways on these people. They wanted to try the food and volunteered; they will probably never taste a hamburger again. You know, I once tried an eggroll (not a big fan), but I still eat burgers, dogs and pizza.

2. We just celebrated a holiday where I heard Mary referred to as the Virgin Mary on many occasions. I've never heard parents fearing for the virgin ears of their children when "virgin' is used in the above context. And...wouldn't it be easy enough to say, "A 'Whopper Virgin' is somebody who has never eaten a Whopper."?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Brett, Philadelphia, PA — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 06:11:25 GMT

I enjoy watching these commercials. Even though they are pretty f___king dumb.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Paul Mueller — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:33:42 GMT

Fast food has to try anything that sells whether it's sex or just plain stupidity as long as it sells. The "psychological impact" stuff is designed for people in serious need of something better to do with their time. Half the ads I see make absolutely no sense at all, so I don't take them seriously, at all.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Miranda — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 03:59:55 GMT

Burger King makes fairly losuy, but cheap burgers. theres nothing special about them, so who cares if someone's tried one or not?

This is better than that weird creepy 'King' they pulled out a few years ago. Myself, I like to eat healthy food that doesn't make you smell weird and isn't going to kill you so fast.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Animal Tester — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 06:10:05 GMT

I would like them to test Amish people next.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

HUMANITARIAN LION SUPPORTER — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 13:15:31 GMT

This is a video response showing whopper, perrier, Playstation, Gap and school virgins
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gEyvS56Y9A

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Craig, Washington, DC — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:50:49 GMT

This commercial made me want to try seal meat. haha :)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Daisy Mae, Ann Arbor MI — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 01:37:26 GMT

Who are they targeting with these ads? I can't figure out who they think is going to appreciate them. Not parents, who won't appreciate having to explain to their kids what a virgin is. Not old people who also won't appreciate hearing "virgin" on tv in the middle of the day. Not anyone whose heritage is the countries they're mocking, nor anyone who is culturally sensitive enough to be offended even if they're not of that heritage. Nobody who resents being told to get the rest of the story from the website. ... All I can figure is, they're targeting middle school boys who are titillated by the word virgin, and think mockery is funny. Seems like they're turning off a much bigger demographic though.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ann, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 14:32:00 GMT

These ads are not only xenophobic and remarkably dull, but once again-who cares? I'd like to see another cultural group come over to America, dress us in our best clothes and giggle about our ignorance about the proper way to eat on a boar's anus (see Anthony Bourdain). I'm an Ostrich Egg ala Zulu Omelette baked in dirt virgin! Which do I prefer - the one with or without charred beetle meat? "Ha, foolish Westerner! Your ignorance is cute!" Between this campaign and that Arby's phallus, I haven't been this turned off to ads since Carl's Jr. started with that drippy burger thing.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

apopka, fl — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 18:05:33 GMT

Big Mac or Whopper - they still don't look like the commercials, taste like crap, and are bad for you

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Undercover_Agent from Vegas baby! — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 15:37:08 GMT

This blog can be viewed as another barometer showing how poor the economy really is.

People have already grown bored with their Holiday gifts and now they think posting to a Whopper blog will give them the excitement their gifts failed to give. Here's something that might be exciting...

We, The People really want an erotic stimulus package to come along instead of an economic one. Maybe the new erotic stimulus plan will incorporate both food AND virgins in ways few have dreamed of! I think that's why this whole 'virgin-food' theme is so wildly popular in the first place. I mean...who knows?

Quick! Someone needs to alert the President!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

erik mendenhall roy utah — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:31:43 GMT

wellmy wife and i never had a woper we love wendys why go to burger king if i had a free coupon i would

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Patricia — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 15:49:42 GMT

Sorry, BK has gone so far with their ads that between the creepy King and the bland virgins, I have "sacificed" eating their fast food.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

ted — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 07:06:43 GMT

There’s a funny blog on freedomhaters.org on the Whopper Virgins commercial.

It ties it into Noam Chomsky and how the indigenous people on the commercials will most likely be forced to move to big cities when the fast food chains move in, and have to work for Burger King for a tenth of what American’s make.

Check it out here:

http://freedomhaters.org/content/what-would-noam-chomsky-say-about-burger-kings-whopper-virgin-ad-campaign

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Sheila in Huntsville Texas — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:48:13 GMT

lol "Whoppers that destroy a culture"... nahh... I dont think so. I for one think they are meant to be nothing more than funny (Cheeky, if you will). Dont take a commercial so seriously or literally! Geez.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Tammy, Fountain CO — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 04:02:57 GMT

I found amusement not in the "Burger Virgin" premise, but rather how so many people didn't comprehend how they could possibly eat such a piece of food. I think they should have cued in Carl's Junior to show them all how to stuff a big fat burger in their face.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Ben — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:37:46 GMT

Wow. Talk about a reviewer who completely missed the point!

People dressed funny, from strange places, eating a burger. It's comedy!

And you're looking for empirical results and treating this as if it's a serious documentary. What a loon!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Marcus, Chicago — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 01:32:37 GMT

The thing I have loved about CP+B's work for burger king is the thing that is lost on every "grown up" on here with a professional opinion and way too education.

Step back just a second and think about who burger king is marketing to. Is it a 45 year old professional who can afford to shop at Whole Foods, has a taste for Falafel, and routinely has Korean BBQ? Or is it a college or high school kid who has a few bucks to spend?

If you are on this website, critiquing advertising, than most likely Burger King is not marketed to you. The King, The Xbox games, the Whopper Virgins. These are all very sophomoric, bizarre ideas targeted to a sophomoric, bizarre market. CP+B has effectively made Burger King the fast food joint that is most with it, the most hip, and the most edgy. That may be a shallow claim, but when you are in an industry that sells sugar water and 99 cent chicken, you don't have a lot more to go on.

As a 22 year old, I am slowly losing my taste for fast food. But boy did I love it in high school and college, and every one of my friends loved the BK ads. Is fast food disgusting? absolutely. However, it is a lifesaver for kids who need to eat quick and with only a few bucks. I will continue to wish for more healthy fast food, but until that utopia arrives, I think we ought to congratulate BK for establishing themselves firmly in their targets minds.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

adchick, austin,tx — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:09:43 GMT

As someone in the advertising industry, you people are way overthinking this campaign. It's only purpose was to find people who have no pre-formed opinions, and see which burger they like better. They have to go to very unique places to find people who havent been exposed to BK or McD yet. that's all. there's no master plan to taint the people of the world, and make greenland fat, ruin a culture etc. the commercial was poorly executed, but the idea is very simple.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

jaime — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:54:00 GMT

cmon its a commercial, you guys act as if this is meant to be taken literally.. lets comment on every commercial there is out there. heck, i'll comment on any commercial out there for a job with MSNBC ;)

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jeffrey, Austin, TX — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 20:05:37 GMT

My firewall wont let me view a website called "whoppervirgins.com"

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

John Dicus- Central Coast California — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 14:12:16 GMT

LOL, it's funny how many people think these 'burger virgens' are actually rural dwellers of remote countries... this is an ad campaign with actors. I do some acting, and have seen the 'actor breakdowns' (job openings for actors) asking for the various actors.
Perhaps I look at it from a different perspective than most, because of my own small involvement in acting and advertising... but I find it to be cute. The outfits the people wear, the actors they chose, all is well done from a casting, wardrobe and technical standpoint.
I had no idea that the public would assume these really were people who had never seen a burger. It would be so expensive moving a film crew to a remote place. It's much cheaper to get an actor to stop waiting tables for a day and make a few grand biting into a burger on a set in LA.
The one real one might have been the Inuit settlement... but that could have been in Alaska, or Minnesota for that matter. And yes, I laughed when the one fellow said he preferred seal meat, LOL.
One thing the actors 'breakdowns' (jobs list) mentioned... they wanted the actors to know they would have to bite into a burger, and would not want vegetarians showing up for the auditions.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

joe, Indianapolis, In — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:57:44 GMT

who cares it's just a commercial!

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Terry Rawlins, Bethany Beach, DE / Moscow, Russia — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:10:04 GMT

Unbelievable, the guy from Romania is from Bucharest... When I was there in April 2008 they had several McDonalds in the city. I guess Burger King is counting on our international ignorance...

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Christie, Sacramento, CA — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 14:52:30 GMT

I thought the experiment was incredibly intriguing. Burger King was by no means attempting to spread out its franchise in these remote countries, they could barely land their helicopters and charter planes in the terrain. But there is nothing in the world that could be shared equally between all people than the basic necessity and love of food. People in all cultures are willing to try new things, to venture out into other cultures and experiment. To walk away with something new and different. I saw past the "burger taste test" and saw many beautiful, giving, loving, generous, untouched people who were just as curious as the testers to see the reaction of something new. Yeah, burgers are horrid, both companies have added to the continued obesity in this over consuming country, but look beyond that. There is still a world out there that lives simply, that cares for itself without the outside world, and yet still long for a bit of something else. I wish they could have brought REAL food, but this gave those of us who will never see the outskirts of Romania, Greenland and Thailand a positive and peaceful look inside each others lives and cultures. I wish I could have gone along for the ride.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

mia... florida — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:41:59 GMT

i agree with those who are healthy relative. i dont consume any of the fast foods out there. i think this was wrong and served only a purpose for p.r. service. and i dont really care anyway, but it got me to respond didnt it? oh well, have a better day everyone.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jean D. Johnstown, NY — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:31:41 GMT

I'm amazed by the comments regarding how fresh the burgers look, and how did they prepare them like that in so many out of the way foreign places... Do you really think they travelled all over to make these commercials? They are made on a set.. just like a movie. And I highly doubt that the people eating the burgers are really from rural outposts from all over the world, and that they usually eat whale or seal! They are actors.. dressed in costumes! Just like a movie..!!

The whole point that BK is trying to make is - anyone who hasn't already "done it" (formed an opinion, that is) would choose the Whopper as the better burger. It's really that simple.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Chris, Columbus, Ohio — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 18:13:07 GMT

I'm a 31 year old American male. I've obviously been to both Burger King and McDonalds. I don't give a rat's ass what some middle aged clog champion from Norway thinks about American burgers. I decided a long time ago that the Whopper sucks. If it comes down to BK vs McD, McD wins every time with every sandwich. However, I'll usually take a Steak n Shake burger over either one of those. BK burgers suck almost as bad as their ads do

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

sam in san francisco — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 20:08:22 GMT

i just explained to my son (after dodging the question several times) what a virgin was. you can imagine the look on his face when he saw this commercial. *sigh*

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Missy — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 21:13:39 GMT

I guess I am the minority but I thought the commercial was cute and really enjoyed the longer video. It was interesting and they explained how the burgers were acquired and the tests done. Different and therefore memorable. Now I want a Whopper.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

flashypaws — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:28:52 GMT

why cant burger king just make a decent hamburger out of some decent beef instead of spending millions and millions of dollars to convince us that their crappy product is slightly better than macdonalds crappy product?

apparently, fast food is like rocket science... too complicated for us ordinary folk.. duhhhh... sorry gomer.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Mad Max Walters, OK — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 22:47:05 GMT

Avoid the chain fast-food burgers. I eat at locally-owned mom and pop type shops and I see them in the grocery stores buying REAL ground beef.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Rich, Arlington Heights, IL — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 14:06:56 GMT

Burger king should crow about how many more calories and grams of saturated fat you get for your money, versus a Big Mac.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

jeff kantor, fort collins, co — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 04:50:57 GMT

I think this series of ads for Burger King is xenophobic.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Walter Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 06:14:02 GMT

The ads are not representative of those country. If you check McDonalds website, you will find McDonalds are very common in Romania and many have wifi access.

http://www.mcdonalds.ro/html_files/start.htm

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Jaysin Hooligan — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:01:04 GMT

This ad is just like any other ad out there, kind of lame. What is the big deal? Anyone who is upset over the ad "destroying a culture" and it's values, can take solace in the fact that these people were paid actors/extras that live here in the USA. Burger King did not fly a film crew out to a bunch of different countries and give them burgers. Think about it people. Where are they going to get a McDonalds Big Mac out in a country where there are no fat food diners in the first place? They didn't because it was made and filmed somewhere in California. Everything on TV is not real...in fact, very little is.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Chris, Washington DC — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 06:51:46 GMT

" Why do we care what BK advertises?

Jean Baltimore, Maryland (Sent Tuesday, December 23, 2008 6:42 PM)"

If you don't care, why are you reading a blog about advertising?

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

Rick Hauser Old Orchard Beach, ME — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 16:11:03 GMT

I personally applaud any commercial that does away with the "King" who totally creeps me out and makes me want to run away as fast as I can from BK. I actually tried BK the other day and I liked it. Commercials aren't about reality they are about getting our attention in a positive way.

Burger King’s "virgin" experiment proves socially awkward

have you lost your marbles? — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 20:43:14 GMT

I just love going through some of these posts and reading the comments from people who take things WAAAAAAY TOO SERICOUSLY... you're honestly going to get offended by this commercial or honestly think that this "taste test" is serious? its just there to be funny, and for those of you that also think that we are introducing this "garbage" food to other cultures, you are STUPID - we werent forcing them to change their diets to burger for a lifetime, just a sample. We arent trying to make other people as big and fat as we are here in America... get a GRIP!