OZ video 2007
"What have unions ever done for us?" Yesterday I was reminded how terrific this Australian video was as part of a broad strategic communications plan to change a goverment. And how effective. Got everyone in class to watch it on a break.
Can you post the video or a link to it?
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting to see the original version of this skit pop up on you tube along with the union versions. It's from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. "What Have The Romans Done For Us". Did the unions credit the original writers and actors? Or get their permission to borrow their skit? Or pay them for using their material? I'm sure the Python's are in unions and deserve protection.
ReplyDeleteAnd boy John Cleese is sure a hard act to follow.
The link is the blue font OZ Video 2007. And, yes it was a union shoot and I will check with my Australian friends in class to see about the rights issues. It was a big campaign so I certainly assume everything was done in the bright light of day!
ReplyDeleteThe suggestion the OZ union may be guilty of plagiarism if they are not crediting (or paying) the Python’s is a bit spurious. It’s like suggesting Laurel and Hardy should pay royalties to Charlie Chaplin for The Battle of The Century. And, the truth be told, many of Python’s sketches have their roots in the comedy of Beyond The Fringe whose work they studied and mined diligently.
ReplyDeleteThe pro-union ad takes a great premise and builds on it. The script is new and the repurposing of the idea for political purposes makes the variation something very new indeed. Bravo Oz.
My classmate confirmed today that the Australian media company that produced the spot had indeed properly cleared all the rights. I'd love to screen some of the other commercials that were made for the campaign that helped defeat Prime Minister John Howard's right-wing government in 2007 and made way for the Labour Party.
ReplyDelete