What’s Up With the “Whassup?” Commercial: A Deep Dive

The “Whassup?” commercial (or “Wazzup?” depending on your spelling preference), which debuted in 1999, was a groundbreaking advertising campaign for Budweiser. It featured a group of friends engaging in a distorted, exaggerated phone call, repeatedly yelling “Whassup?!” at each other in a hilariously goofy manner. The commercial’s brilliance lay in its simplicity, relatability, and the infectious nature of its catchphrase, which permeated popular culture at the turn of the millennium. It became an instant classic, boosting Budweiser sales and earning numerous accolades, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable and effective advertising campaigns of all time.

The Genesis of “Whassup?”

The “Whassup?” phenomenon actually started as a short film titled “True” by Charles Stone III in 1996. Stone initially conceived it as a humorous depiction of how he and his friends greeted each other. A Budweiser advertising executive, Vinny Warren, spotted the potential and licensed the concept for a series of commercials. This decision proved incredibly shrewd, transforming a small independent film into a global sensation. The commercial’s raw, authentic feel, a direct result of its origin, resonated deeply with audiences.

Why “Whassup?” Resonated So Deeply

The success of the “Whassup?” commercial wasn’t just about a catchy phrase; it was about capturing a particular cultural moment. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:

• Relatability: The commercial authentically portrayed the way friends interacted, albeit in an exaggerated and comedic manner. It mirrored the casual, informal communication style that was becoming increasingly prevalent in the late 1990s.
• Simplicity: The concept was incredibly simple: friends connecting over the phone. No complex plotlines or celebrity endorsements were needed. The focus was purely on the interaction and the catchphrase.
• Humor: The distorted faces, exaggerated voices, and the sheer absurdity of the repeated “Whassup?!” created a unique and highly memorable comedic experience.
• Timing: The commercial’s release coincided with the rise of internet culture and the increasing popularity of catchphrases and memes. It perfectly tapped into this emerging trend.
• Repetition: The constant repetition of “Whassup?!” was key to its memorability. It was a phrase that stuck in people’s heads, making it easily quotable and shareable.

The “Whassup?” Effect on Budweiser

The impact of the “Whassup?” campaign on Budweiser’s sales and brand image was undeniable. The commercial not only boosted sales significantly, but also solidified Budweiser’s position as a brand that understood and connected with its target audience. It revitalized the brand and introduced it to a younger generation of consumers. The campaign demonstrated the power of effective advertising in shaping consumer perception and driving sales.

The Legacy of “Whassup?”

Even decades after its initial release, the “Whassup?” commercial remains a cultural touchstone. It’s frequently referenced in popular culture, parodied in other advertisements, and continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the late 1990s. Its enduring legacy lies in its ability to capture a specific moment in time and to create a catchphrase that transcended generations. It’s a testament to the power of simple, relatable, and humorous advertising.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who created the original “Whassup?” short film?

The original short film, titled “True,” was created by Charles Stone III. This short film served as the inspiration for the Budweiser commercial.

2. What year did the “Whassup?” commercial first air?

The Budweiser “Whassup?” commercial first aired in 1999. It quickly gained popularity and became a cultural phenomenon.

3. What was the primary product being advertised in the “Whassup?” commercial?

The commercial primarily advertised Budweiser beer. The campaign was designed to increase Budweiser’s sales and brand recognition.

4. Why were the characters’ faces distorted in the “Whassup?” commercial?

The distorted faces were a stylistic choice intended to enhance the humor and create a unique visual identity for the commercial. This unusual visual element contributed significantly to the commercial’s memorability. The effect was achieved by filming the actors through a wide-angle lens.

5. How did the “Whassup?” commercial impact Budweiser’s sales?

The “Whassup?” commercial had a significant positive impact on Budweiser’s sales. The campaign is widely credited with boosting brand awareness and driving sales among a younger demographic.

6. Was the “Whassup?” commercial only popular in the United States?

No, the “Whassup?” commercial achieved international popularity. It was adapted and aired in numerous countries, becoming a global phenomenon.

7. What awards did the “Whassup?” commercial win?

The “Whassup?” commercial won several prestigious advertising awards, including a Grand Prix at the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival. It was also recognized by the Clio Awards and the Effie Awards.

8. Were there any variations or sequels to the original “Whassup?” commercial?

Yes, Budweiser produced several variations and sequels to the original “Whassup?” commercial, featuring different characters and situations. However, none achieved the same level of popularity as the original.

9. Did the “Whassup?” catchphrase influence popular culture?

Absolutely. The “Whassup?” catchphrase became a ubiquitous part of popular culture. It was widely used in everyday conversations, parodied in other media, and even entered the lexicon as a slang term.

10. Are there any similar advertising campaigns that achieved the same level of success as “Whassup?”

While many advertising campaigns have been successful, few have achieved the same level of cultural impact and enduring legacy as “Whassup?”. Campaigns like “Got Milk?” and “Just Do It” (Nike) are considered similarly iconic.

11. What made the “Whassup?” commercial so relatable to audiences?

The “Whassup?” commercial was relatable because it authentically portrayed the way friends communicated with each other, albeit in an exaggerated and comedic manner. It captured the essence of casual, informal conversation and the importance of friendship.

12. Is the “Whassup?” commercial still relevant today?

While the “Whassup?” commercial is primarily remembered for its cultural impact in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it remains relevant as a case study in effective advertising. It demonstrates the power of simplicity, humor, and relatability in creating a memorable and impactful campaign. The commercial still evokes nostalgia and is often referenced in discussions about iconic advertising moments.