The Elmlea Challenge ('80s Ad)

British TV advertisement for Elmlea cream substitute. The product was launched in 1984, but I'm not sure when this ad campaign started (this was recorded in 1989).

Elmlea is property of Unilever.

Category:

Pets & Animals

Tags:

• ad
• advert
• adertisement
• commercial
• tv
• 1989
• 80s
• CM
• elmlea
• harry
• cat
• cream

[ZilogJones]

I have a dog, he'd probably drink both anyway :)

[udard]

Jeannie Rayment was the producer on this and many other ads for Ogilvy and Mather in their heyday, what a kind and clever lady.

Ah for the days of the soft sell!

[udard]

I remember during one lunch break, Harry auditioned for another job playing a toy piano, which he did with consummate flair and skill. Truly the Noel Coward of the feline world.

I’m not making any of this up.

[udard]

It didn't matter if it wasn't cruel - it had to LOOK not cruel as well. Although if memory serves, in one version we tied him onto a lazy susan with fishing-line and spun him round. But he was so laid-back, his trainer had to stop him lying down so as to enjoy the ride more comfortably.

[udard]

But indubitably he was the star. They allowed three days to get it in the can, or as Harry said,"in the Whiskas" in case he was a bit thick, but he was such a pro, he nailed it in about an hour, and we spent the next three days cooking up alternative and ever dottier scenarios in case the RSPCA on-set representative gave us the thumbs down.

[udard]

That’s me in this ad - so funny to see it after all this time. Both Nicky Croydon (who played my wife) and I lied when they asked us if we were allergic to cats at the audition, so we avoided Harry like mice throughout the shoot.

[robinbeckford]

The script and the tone are just excellent. Adjusting the blindfold so Harry can't read the name on the dish (yeeessss...) - brilliant.

[Ladyseverene]

I remember this advert, hilarious!

[theeddielang]

Oh God Yes! The original Elmlea advert direct from Mrs Freeman's kitchen. My life is complete......

[nondietweightloss]

Wow, well done for finding this ad! Have you tested your cat? I've tested rwo so far and they could both tell the difference - see my vids. Why not test yours and add it as a reply?