I really enjoy this Progressive ad about not becoming your parents. I like this one because it shows us what we all fear, becoming our parents as we grow older. Even though we don’t usually want to become our parents, this ad makes our lizard brain connect Progressive with having the stability to own a home, something that a lot of millennials and Gen Z really want but do not necessarily have access to at the same level as their parents’ generation. Like Dr. Bezio discussed in her podcast, even if the ads don’t talk explicitly about the details of what they’re selling, they are probably trying to sell us the fantasy of what the product could do for us. In this case, it’s definitely meant to be a funny ad, and they say that Progressive can’t stop you from becoming your parents, but they can help insure new homeowners. Progressive is able to make fun of some “Boomer” stereotypes while also making millennials see themselves as potential homeowners one day, and progressive markets itself as an insurance agency that’s in touch with pop culture’s critique of the “Boomer” generation.
Critical Thinking
I thought this was a really good connection. The ad isn’t selling a crash course on how to avoid becoming your parents, but actually tricking you into thinking that having their insurance will make you successful like your parents. Obviously, this isn’t true because insurance cannot actually do this, but we cannot distinguish a difference without actually thinking about it.
I also agree with what you said! Not only does they do a good job at selling. us the “fantasy” of what the product could do for us, Progressive in many of their ads, including this one, do a really good job at poking fun at different things in pop culture that are relatable to large audiences in a way that is funny and not offensive (because that could be a thin line that could be easily crossed).
I completely agree with your point! When it comes to things like Insurance, many of us lose our focus pretty quickly so it is important to make an ad that catches people’s attention. This ad certainly made me laugh and made me fear for my future as I slowly become my parents… But they really do a great job of appealing to a larger audience and making insurance stick in people’s minds.
Definitely agree with what you are saying. With the housing and insurance market is right now, it is understandable for us Gen Z and Millenials to connect with this ad on the level we do. It does appeal to the fantasy. Sure, it could be perceived as slightly mocking, but it does make a connection. Also, ads for insurance are not normally targeted at Gen Z and Millenials, so it indicates Progressive is understanding the slow demographic shift.