Classic Charles Atlas comic ads

Ads
Jun 22, 2020
charles atlas insult ad
This is a famous Charles Atlas ad format that appeared in comic books for decades. That's part of what makes this ad so good - it blends into the rest of the magazine with its own little cartoon strip. The story that it tells is at least a bit relatable for its target audience:
  1. Skinny guy gets bullied at the beach in front of a girl.
  2. Skinny guy feels ashamed and orders Charles Atlas' book.
  3. "Later", the skinny guy is all big and buff.
  4. The ex-skinny guy returns to the beach and gets his revenge on the bully.
Even if you've never experienced this specific scenario, it's an easy-to-follow story. "Mac" gets bullied, gets big, then kicks butt. The ad also follows a familiar basic format:
  • Image.
  • Headline (Let Me PROVE I can make YOU A NEW MAN)
  • Text. (Including bold subheaders and lots of freebie extras)

Image Description

The image is a classic Charles Atlas comic book ad featuring a cartoon strip. It tells the story of a skinny guy who gets bullied at the beach, orders Charles Atlas' book, becomes muscular, and returns to confront the bully. The ad includes bold headlines and a call to action, promising to make you "a new man."

Positive Aspects

This ad cleverly integrates into comic books, making it feel like a seamless part of the reading experience. The relatable narrative engages readers by presenting a clear transformation story, tapping into the desires of those wanting to improve their physique and confidence.

Key Takeaways

  • The ad uses a relatable story format that resonates with its target audience.
  • It blends into comic book content, enhancing engagement.
  • Offers a clear call to action with promises of transformation and freebies.
  • Uses bold headlines to capture attention and guide the reader through the ad.

Additional Insights

The ad's enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It taps into universal themes of self-improvement and revenge, making it memorable. This format has inspired countless other advertising strategies, proving the power of storytelling in marketing. Plus, who doesn't love a good comeback story?

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