Oh, Microsoft.

Looks like Microsoft really knows how to use promotional stickers-- that computer looks just like a Mac with a covered up Apple logo! The video is also just so incredibly cheesetastic. Microsoft would have been better off giving out promotional mp3 players to promote Songsmith instead.

RIP Michael Jackson

I'm choosing to remember Michael Jackson not only by listening to some of his greatest hits, but also by watching one of my favorite episodes of one of my favorite shows-- The Simpsons. The clip above is from "Stark Raving Dad," the season three premiere, where Homer meets a man who believes he is Michael Jackson in a mental institution. Fun fact-- Jackson actually voiced the character in the episode, but did not sing. Anyway, here's to the King of Pop!

If anyone is looking to score Michael Jackson memorabilia, like promotional T-shirts from old concerts or custom gloves, I suggest moving quickly because the prices will skyrocket. If you're interested, you can read the official comments of SONY record executives on Jackson's untimely passing here.

Trojan's "Evolve"

I really like this Trojan commercial for the way it promotes condom use-- it doesn't lecture about the dangers of unprotected sex and the threat of STDs or pregnancy, so it's much more likely to be heard by its target audience. If Trojan continues this theme with the pigs, they'll really expand discreet promotional opportunities for itself (and avoid possible confusion with the USC mascot). I think putting promotional stickers of pigs in mens restrooms in bars would be a good step in expanding this campaign.

Project Natal

This video-- a demonstration of Xbox's Project Natal-- was the top viewed ad on YouTube last week, according to AdAge's viral video chart. The technology is pretty neat, but I feel like the people look like they're playing a giant game of charades because they're not holding anything. Xbox should take this promotional opportunity to create accessories, like custom sports equipment so that users can further connect with their brand-- both when using the system and when playing actual sports.

Cross-Promotion?

This is an ad for Carl's Jr, but YouTube is getting a lot of love too-- the promotional T-shirt can be seen in just about every shot.

Harry Potter!!

Here is a trailer for the new Harry Potter movie! Warner Brothers just completely branded the 42nd street subway station for this movie, so it gets me pumped for it every time I'm there. Even though it doesn't open for another month, I can already envision people lining up outside the movie theater with novelty hats and other promotional apparel.

Colbert's Dedication

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On last Monday's Colbert Report, Stephen Colbert had his head shaved by General Ray Odierno to show solidarity with the troops. If you want to show your support without parting with your hair, consider giving out patriotic themed promotional products at your Fourth of July party this year.

Guerrilla Gorilla

This video is part of a new promotion for Chiquita bananas. It's pretty funny-- I mean, what would you do if you saw a banana being chased around your town by a gorilla? Chiquita has also distributed some banana shaped promotional USB flash drives to employees in order to build buzz about the campaign. You can see them here. They're cute, but I think I'd still rather see a gorilla chasing a banana.

At This Rate, I'll Never Be On a Boat

I'm sick of the rain and cloudy days-- I just want the summer weather to get here! The second it gets nice out I'm breaking out my custom flip flops and sunscreen and getting out on a boat!

Super Bowl Throwback

I just recently stumbled upon this Denny's spot, which was hands-down my favorite Super Bowl commercial this year. I know it worked really well as far as getting people to go to Denny's, so I feel they should have capitalized on the buzz more-- I know I definitely would have bought a Nannerpuss promotional stuffed animal.

Sunglasses For All Seasons

This video is blowing my mind! If I had a chameoleon, I would definitely try it out at home-- only with some nice promotional sunglasses, because Ray-Bans are mad expensive.

I Like Square Butts

Fast food has long been known for marketing promotional toys to children. This Burger King ad has come under a lot of fire recently for using lewd humor to market their Sponge Bob theme kids' meals (free with any purchase of an adult value meal). My ethical jury is still out on that point, but I think the Sir Mix-a-Lot reference is hilarious.

Milky Way Creates Sticky Video

This promotional video for Milky Way, created by BBDO New York, really highlights the candy's gooey, delicious caramel center. Watching the caramel get pulled across the conveyer belt makes even the most diet-concious individual crave something sweet. This video reminds us all that you really can't go wrong by giving a promotional chocolate bar or any other kind of promotional candy if you need to win over a crowd or just reward someone.