September 20, 2014

WordGirl - Mr. Big (2007) 

WordGirl battles villainy with super strength and a superior vocabulary.  In this episode (beginning at 13:30), she takes on the title villain and The Thing.

The Thing is a useless product– a cube “scientifically designed by scientists” and “made from "a mixture of space-age polymers”– that does “stuff” and “things." Through mind control, Mr. Big manages to create incredible demand for it.  Everyone buys it, except for WordGirl. She doesn’t want vague descriptions; she wants specifics. 

It would be awesome if more consumers were like her, asking specific questions about an advertisers claims and demanding specific evidence to support them.  Are real problems being described?  Or are they manufactured problems, designed to get your money?  Does the offered solution really address the problem?

Consider this description for the Schick® Quattro® Titanium:

a durable razor with 4 titanium-coated blades that stay sharp to reduce irritation. An edging blade provides extra precision in hard-to-reach spaces, and an ergonomically designed handle gives added control.

Or the GILLETTE BODY® RAZOR:

The first razor built for male terrain, designed to go where face razors aren’t. Experience comfort even in the toughest hard-to-reach areas every time you shave. Product features: Rounded head for the tricky spots; 3 Lubricating Strips for outstanding glide; An anti-slip grip for exceptional control, even in the shower.

Wow…they sound like exceptional products.  I never knew a better handle would give me better control.  And I didn’t know titanium-coated blades reduced irritation.  Maybe, I should replace my old razor.