TGR StaffFashion brand Rag & Bone has ignited significant controversy among automotive enthusiasts with their latest advertising campaign. The campaign features a short film and accompanying photographs in which a classic 1979 Porsche 911 SC is destroyed by dropping a concrete barrier onto it, all while actress Gabriella Wilde walks by. This dramatic imagery was released on YouTube and has since garnered widespread attention.
According to Rag & Bone’s co-founder, Marcus Wainwright, the concept aimed to “capture some of that intense New York energy where anything can happen.” However, many viewers have expressed confusion and dismay, questioning the connection between the destruction of a classic car and the portrayal of New York’s vibrancy. Critics argue that the act of crushing a classic Porsche 911 appears senseless and disconnected from the brand’s intended message.
Crushed Classic Porsche by Rag & Bone
The backlash has been swift and vocal. Comments on platforms like YouTube and Facebook have been overwhelmingly negative, with many expressing outrage over the destruction of a valuable and iconic vehicle. Some have suggested that the brand could have used computer-generated imagery (CGI) instead of destroying an actual car. In contrast, others lament the loss of a vehicle many car enthusiasts dream of owning.
This incident has sparked a broader discussion about the use of shock value in advertising and the potential consequences of such strategies. While Rag & Bone may have succeeded in capturing attention, the negative reception suggests that the campaign may have alienated a segment of their audience, particularly car enthusiasts who hold classic models like the Porsche 911 in high regard.
The debate continues as to whether the destruction of the classic Porsche was a bold artistic statement or an ill-conceived marketing ploy. Regardless, the “Crushed Classic Porsche” campaign has become a talking point, illustrating the fine line brands must navigate between creativity and consumer sensibilities.
For those interested in viewing the campaign, here’s the original video released by Rag & Bone:
Source: Rag & Bone Facebook Page
