Snickers and scandal
Posted by: rance palmer
Frank, I think your turning a blind eye to this one.
This commercial is a threat to the male identified race because it attempts to define masculine behaviors. Whose job is it to call one out for being "too girly" and what kind of message does this give to audiences, especially young people? Beyond just that, it attempts to reinforce the old masculine/feminine binary, communicating to audiences how we're supposed to act, behave, and present ourselves based on our sexes. For GLBT people this is a BIG problem because we are the ones trying to live beyond this type of social conditioning.
LGBT in Mainstream Ads
Posted by: rance palmer
I think GLBT visibility is essential to society's growth; positive portrayals of gays and lesbians in mainstream commercials allows viewers to see us just as we are; living, breathing, feeling individuals just like everyone else. It may be a challenge for some audiences to accept our presence within this media form, but I say why not? We can learn from our differences. These kinds of challenges, whether they bring about a negative or positive impact, have the potential to expand and open up ones mind. After all, queer people are just as real and a part of this world as anyone else is, there's no ignoring that fact and we're not going away!
Stereotypes Are Funny!
Posted by: rance palmer
I feel there is a specific time and place for using stereotypes and sometimes, if used correctly and within the right context, they can be funny and tasteful; unfortunately this rarely happens. As a fabulous queer identified young man I admit to falling into some gay stereotypes (involving my mannerisms, voice, and appearance) and when I see characters on TV or in commercials mirroring these stereotypes I can't help but feel somewhat empowered. I can relate to these representations because I can see myself in them; and with that I feel counted for and included, and sometimes a little amused. Of course, however, when I see these types of characters being laughed at in a degrading, dehumanizing way, I also can't help but feel offended and betrayed, and that is definitely NOT funny.
I would tell advertisers to be careful and to listen to what Commercial Closet has to say before attempting to use any GLBT stereotypes.