I’m a vegetarian and I believe in eating healthy food. So I’m not a McDonald’s customer. If I’m on a road trip, and I’m hungry, and there’s a place to eat off the freeway, and there’s only a McDonald’s, I’ll find something to eat there.
I’m having a little bit of trouble understanding who this ad is targeting. I know it isn’t me or anyone I know.
I haven’t seen this ad campaign before, so I’m not sure if I’m supposed to know the cheesy-looking guy with the cheesy-looking mustache in the upper left corner named Paul, the original Dollar Menunaire. I’m not sure what a menunaire is.
This ad ran in People, whose readers are predominantly women. McDonald’s is apparently trying to lure women into their restaurant so they can buy a hot fudge sundae. And it’s only a dollar. Good deal.
But the person giving the tip, Paul, looks like someone who does needle drugs. And he’s white as a ghost, so he apparently never gets any sun. Is Paul the kind of guy that women trust to tell them about food?
I can imagine the conversation:
Paul: Yo hey, it’s me, Paul, the original Dollar Menunaire!
Donna: Paul…Paul…I don’t know anyone named Paul…oh, wait, are you that creepy guy in high school who was caught pulling all those fire alarms? Your look hasn’t changed since then, I see.
Paul: Got a little helpful hint to, y’know, fulfill a need.
Donna: A need? You always were a pervert. Nice running into you. I have to go.
Paul: It’s called the hot fudge sundae and can be found on McDonald’s superb-ilicious Dollar Menu.
Donna: Leave me alone or I’m going to call the police.
Paul: It’s hot, fudgy and sundae-y.
Donna: That’s great, Paul. See ya. Give my regards to your sister.
Paul: (leering) And for just a buck, it’s just what your desire requires.
Donna: (into her cell phone): I’m at the Mini Mart on Ridge Rd, near Chapham. This guy Paul is propositioning me and he won’t go away. Can you get someone over here?
Paul: That’s probably more than a hint, y’know.
Donna: No, you wouldn’t take a hint. Why don’t you just kiss my butt?
Paul: It’s a sweet one.
I did a Google search and found out that our creepy friend Paul has a creepy web site that will appeal to creepy people: http://www.mcdonalds.com/usa/eat/features/dollar.html.
The next time I’m driving along the freeway and I get hungry, I’ll hold out for Jack in the Box. Or Wendy’s. I don’t want to run into Paul or any of his friends.
