Dr AL Sharada
Aug 18, 2023

Creative critique from a gender lens: 7-11 August

Dr AL Sharada, director, Population First, reviews ads from last week on the basis of gender sensitivity

Creative critique from a gender lens: 7-11 August

What Worked: 

 

Sony Pictures Networks India

The #KhulKeBolo campaign tackles a pressing concern often concealed beneath societal biases and unawareness. The campaign brings to the forefront the silent struggle of women with mental health issues. The prevailing societal stigma makes it a daunting task for most women to acknowledge and express their mental health challenges.

 

The advertisement underscores the importance of acknowledging and seeking counseling or support services for mental illness, which is more prevalent than we presume. The National Family Health Survey reveals that 30% of women confront various forms of gender-based violence, subjecting them to heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and other mental ailments. Remarkably, even the prevalent issue of postpartum depression often goes unrecognised.

 

Data paints a grim picture, concerning the availability of support services. There is a mere one psychiatrist for every 343,000 individuals. In light of these distressing realities, women's limited access to essential resources, restricted mobility, and constrained ability to seek help mean that those grappling with mental illnesses are often deprived of much-needed care and support.

 

Through its hard-hitting narrative, the ad not only encourages women to break their silence but also introduces an online counseling service, an invaluable resource. Considering the vast outreach of the Sony network, the ad may significantly impact a wide spectrum of women, including those residing in non-metro areas, prompting them to speak out, seek the support they deserve, and openly address their mental health concerns.

 

More importantly, the ad could also be used effectively by NGOs and others working in the community to initiate conversations with women and youth on mental health issues.

 

Gender Sensitivity Score (GSS): 3.5/5

 

What did not work: 

 

Lloyd

In this advertisement, the renowned actor Mohanlal takes center stage, embodying a character that aims to redefine traditional masculinity by portraying a man as sensitive and supportive. The intention is to portray a more inclusive view of masculinity.

 

However, upon closer analysis, the execution of this concept falls short of leaving a lasting impact. The ad appears to laboriously emphasise gender sensitivity, giving rise to the perception that the message has been forcibly integrated to meet the criteria of today's socially conscious discourse. This results in a lack of organic resonance, as the authenticity of the portrayal becomes questionable.

 

While it's important to acknowledge the attempts made to challenge stereotypes and advocate for positive change, the overall execution and nuanced communication are equally important to resonate with the viewers. 

 

It is important to strike a balance between the messaging and authenticity to leave a lasting impression on the audience.

 

GSS: 2.5/5

 

Other films from the week: 

 

JBL

GSS: 3/5

 

Vi

GSS: 3/5

 

Manforce Condoms

GSS: 3.25/5

 

Britannia 1947% more history

GSS: 3/5

 

Kotak

GSS: 2.5/5

 

Britannia Jim Jam Pops

GSS: 2.5/5

 

Shopsy

GSS: 2.75/5

 

Star Sports

GSS: 3/5 

 

Kajaria

 

GSS: 2.5/5

 

Air India

GSS: 3/5

Source:
Campaign India

Related Articles

Just Published

2 days ago

WPP boss Mark Read hits back at employee vitriol ...

CEO told Campaign's sister title, PRWeek, that some of the comments being made about his decision to require all employees to work in the office at least four days a week do not reflect the views of many staff.

2 days ago

AiVANTA, UnScript to offer AI-based video solutions ...

The duo to provide AI-powered personalised videos for advertising and social media marketing requirements of brands in India.

2 days ago

Why is PVMA missing ‘U’?

The temporary rebranding to ‘PVMA’ signals its entry into badminton, backed by a collaboration with PV Sindhu—a strategic activation that highlights the sport’s rising importance in Indian sports marketing.

2 days ago

WPP’s back-to-office push: Is India’s adland ready ...

SOUNDING BOARD: Will the work-from-office mandate foster creativity and team collaboration, or is the advertising risking attrition?