Theme:
Targeting Women
Collection:
Women in Sports
Published:
2005
Brand:
Camel
Manufacturer:
R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company
Format:
Advertisement
Tobacco Type:
Cigarette
Comments:
In this ad, a woman is painted behind a pool table, eyeing the ball to see her next move. Her mouth is hidden by the pool table, replaced by the gaping pool pocket. Subliminally, this ad sends a sexual message to young men, who will imagine the cue ball sinking sensually into the pocket/mouth, and will associate this action with the burning of a Camel. Additionally, the woman’s hand holds not only the oversized Camel cigarette, but also the large, flesh-toned cue, which stands erect. Yet the ad has a vintage feeling to it, which provides an “older is best” mentality to the ad, while serving as a blanket which covers the subliminal messaging.
