By: The BitMar Team.
Image Source: Bing Image Creator.
Do you remember the Furbys, that would not stop talking? ...or... the addictive jingle of the "Slap Chop"? These iconic (or, infamous) commercials, from the past, evoke a wave of nostalgia; to Millennials, and Gen Z. What if these ads were not relegated to dusty VHS tapes, and/or blurry YouTube uploads? As nostalgia continues to be a driving force, in the entertainment industry, a curious trend may emerge: streaming services, offering curated channels that are dedicated to classic commercials, and infomercials—transforming them, into ironic entertainment; for a new generation.
Nostalgia Reigns Supreme: Reliving the Past, Through Entertainment
A 2023 study – by: the NPD Group; a market research firm – explores the concept of "comfort viewing"—the tendency of revisiting familiar movies, TV shows, and music, from one's youth. The study found, that: seventy percent (70%) of Millennials, and Gen Z, viewers report engaging in comfort viewing; highlighting their desire to revisit content that is associated with positive memories. Classic commercials – while not traditionally considered entertainment – can tap into this same desire for familiarity, and nostalgia.
Beyond Cringe: Reframing the Past, with a Modern Lens
Classic commercials – often viewed, as: cheesy, and/or over-the-top, by today's standards – can be a source of amusement, for a new generation. A 2022 article, in The Atlantic, explores the rise of "meme-ification" of old commercials – wherein viewers take clips, and repurpose them; for humor – on Social Media platforms. Streaming services could capitalize, on this trend; by curating channels that celebrate the absurdity of these ads—adding humorous commentary, and/or behind-the-scenes insights.
A Window, into the Past: A Glimpse, into Social History
Classic commercials can – also – offer a window, into the social history; and cultural touchstones of their era. A 2021 Smithsonian Magazine article highlights how advertising archives can be used; to understand: past trends, consumer habits, and societal values. By showcasing fashion trends, popular music, and societal attitudes; reflected in these ads... streaming services could create a platform; for viewers to explore the past, in a light – and engaging – way.
Building Community, Through Shared Memories
Curated channels, featuring classic commercials, could – also – foster a sense of community. Viewers could share memories, and reactions to these ads, on Social Media platforms—sparking conversations; about bygone eras, and trends. This interactive element could further-enhance the appeal of these channels, and create a unique viewing experience.
The Verdict: A Niche, with Potential
Whether curated channels – that feature classic commercials – become a mainstream offering, on streaming services... remains to be seen. However; the undeniable power of nostalgia; the potential for humorous, and informative content; and the opportunity, to explore social history – all – make this a trend worth watching. For Millennials, and Gen Z... these channels could offer a chance, to: laugh at the past; learn, about a different era; and to connect, with others, through shared memories.
Bonus Tip: for the Meantime
Next-generation streaming platforms – like: BitMar – may provide you the most affordable form of on-demand streaming entertainment. BitMar provides all-in-one streaming service, for life, for a one-time payment. It can connect you to millions of on-demand movies, TV shows, channels, videos, and songs (from many different sources on the Web), on the screens that you already own. In fact, BitMar provides access to more movies, and TV shows, than: Cable, Satellite, Netflix, Disney Plus, Max/HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Peacock, and Hulu – combined – and more songs, than: Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Prime Music, and Apple Music—combined. You may learn more, at: BitMar.com/.