Representation Analysis

   Representation in the media means how films, books, shows, etc include all types of genders, groups, sizes, beliefs, religions, and people of color. Lately, representation in the media is a tricky topic to deal with as it can affect the audience depending on what is shown. On this post, I will be talking about how two advertisements show different types of representation and how one can be better than another.

AD#1: Axe

   This first advertisement is a montage of several woman with ideal bodies, from societies perspective, in revealing bikinis running to a man. Throughout the commercial, the woman are shown running to a happy guy who is spraying Axe around him. As the woman rush to the man, they push each other to the ground and climb through hills or swim in the ocean. This paints the image of woman being viewed only for their body and that they must compete for the male interest. Not only is this completely dehumanizing woman but it is also shows how, for ads to intrigue their target audience, they have to do insane shots like this. 

   As the target audience for this commercial is heterosexual males, it is understandable as to why an advertisement like this was produced to boost the sales of Axe. Although, the message behind it can be demeaning to many as it implies women need to fit societies standards to have a chance for male attention.

   Yet, not only does this commercial display the image of woman acting like animals and only being viewed for their bodies, it also sets a societal standard that men also have to reach. A skinny, white male is shown to be the main character of this piece as he is being desired by all these women. This can have a negative effect on those who do not fit the standard.

AD#2: H&M

   The second advertisement I watched was the "Close the Loop" H&M piece. This is the perfect example of a commercial that represents all different types of people in a positive light. There is representation of all groups here, signifying all color of people, sexualities, gender, sizes, ages, and even types of bodies images such as body hair, piercings and more. This commercial makes everyone feel included, it is an excellent spot and more pieces of media should be like this. This is a good type of advertisement that represents everyone positively, more media should be like this one.