Mr. MADNESS

Rip Curl : Mirage - visually stunning video, pure eye candy

2012-01-12T17:39:00.000-08:00

Who'd have ever thought something like boardshorts could come up with such a stunning promo video. But that's exactly what Rip Curl have gone and done with an immensely enjoyable to watch flick for their Mirage range.

What's more, RipCurl 'Mirage - The Full Experience' pulled off a technological world-first using Bullet-Time technology, by capturing full-tilt surfing action via a "30 camera array" - a line of cameras firing consistently as surfers ride towards and past it... to create stunning "frozen" moments in time. Pure eye candy. Enjoy!

52 cameras, the world's best surfers, 1 moment

To go behind-the-scenes, learn more about the campaign and the shoot, click here.

But first, check out these amazing 'Making of' videos: Behind the Slice and Behind Mirage.

Just in case you were wondering... No! I'm not a surfer. Just an avid marketer with a taste for quality films. The only thing I surf is the worldwide web - in my webshorts. (ps: I don military green on Mondays. Just in case you were... :-)

KIA Soul car ad - the Hamsters are back... party rocking hard

2012-01-12T16:09:00.000-08:00

Here's a funny commercial for KIA Soul set to a catchy tune. The latest in a series of amusing ads which has made the party-rocking, kick-ass rapping & hard shuffling trio of Hamsters much loved (tweeted, +1'd, liked) worldwide. Enjoy!

I quite love the bit where the enemy robotron starts to tap his feet - infected by the soulful rhythm :-)

Awesome TED talk - Shiny Eyes by Benjamin Zander

2012-01-12T15:30:00.000-08:00

TED.com is a free-flowing river of inspiration. A huge celebration of ideas, a true victory of collaborative creativity!

Aptly described as ideas worth spreading, TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design. Over time, it has come to mean so much more than that. A powerful resource of global brainpower, TED is riveting talks by remarkable people - free to the world.

There are too many awesome videos on TED.com/talks. Here's one such inspiring talk by the amazing Benjamin Zander - classical music composer, accomplished pianist, story-teller extraordinaire...

Shakespeare was right. Music is the food of love. Benjamin Zander would easily agree. Watch the video and you will too. (ps: Many Thanks, Marie & Simon Young for showing me this video. Indeed, it gave me... shiny eyes.)

May The Force Be With You - cool Volkswagen ad

2012-01-12T14:06:00.000-08:00

So much cool creative content out there! This VW commercial is a winner. Funny. Memorable. And clever.
Way better on film than on paper, the magic (I mean... the force) of this ad lies in the legendary soundtrack.
And... the awesome Darth (e-x-h-a-l-e) Vader costume.

Great News for Star Wars fans - George Lucas' legacy lives on. Coming soon to theatres in spectacular 3D !!!

The 7 Ps of Social Media... by I. P. Daily

2011-12-12T20:43:00.000-08:00

The highly complex world of social media explained via a simple act of the urinary tract... Meet the 7 Ps of Social Media.

Google+ - I pee in circles >> that's the 7th P of Social Media.

The sophisticated P paradigm of social media was created by I. P. Daily, grandson of P. P. Daily - the genius inventor of designer incontinence underwear under the hi-fashion label - Pisstachio!

What puts the Happy in "Happy Diwali"

2011-10-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

Call it Deepavali, Deep Utsav, Lakshmi Pujan, or as many outside India refer to it, Indian Christmas... Diwali is the Festival of Lights - the grandest of Indian festivals - most often depicted by a flaming oil lamp, or many.

Ever wondered what puts the "Happy" in Happy Diwali? What's the story behind Diwali? What does it mean?

Legend has it, Diwali is the rejoicing of the return of the divine Lord Rama (after 14 inclement years in exile) to the Kingdom of Ayodhya, to take his rightful place as the supreme and much loved ruler - after defeating the evil 10-headed Ravana and his demonic forces. To welcome Lord Rama, and celebrate his homecoming, people lit oil lamps inside and outside their homes, lighting up the streets and the city!

It is a long story the full version of which forms one of Hinduism’s sacred scriptures: Ramayana (The Tale of Rama). While it holds true to tradition, Diwali has many meanings manifested in myriad ways.

Diwali means:

The victory of Good over Evil
The triumph of Right over Wrong
The conquest of Happiness over Sorrow
The shining through of Hope over Despair
The win of all things Positive over Negative
(Confidence over Doubt, Control over Fear, Virtue over Vice)
The prevalence of Light over Darkness

Spiritually, Diwali is the return of greatness, prosperity, peace, abundance and balance, the coming together of all holiness to say - The world is a wonderful place and things are only going to get better from here on. Yesterday's in the past (troubles forgotten & misdemeanours forgiven), we're hopeful & thankful for Today, and good times - they start tomorrow.

In that spirit, Diwali is the last day of the year in the Hindu Calendar, ushering in the New Year. And on this most auspicious of days...

I'd like to wish you a very Happy Diwali & Happy New Year. Wishing the very best for your family & friends. May you all have a safe, joyous, prosperous and peaceful year ahead. I hope your day brightens (and face lights up like a lamp :-) on reading this.

Here's the President of USA, Barack Obama wishing everyone a Happy Diwali and "Saal Mubarak" ("Happy New Year") and explaining the signifcance of the auspicious Indian festival.

Dear Mr. Obama, Wish you a Happy Diwali & Saal Mubarak too!

All the very best for the upcoming US elections next year.

#Obama2012

Steve Jobs (1955 - 2011) - today genius died

2011-10-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

RIP Steve Jobs

(1955 - 2011)

This says it all.

Steve Jobs didn't show the way. He created it.

People followed him, connected with him, and liked him much before it was socially cool to do so. And you don't have to be an Apple fan to recognize his creative, branding, mktg, tech genius. Just look around and you'll see how he's changed the world. The Steve Jobs effect on the world will be felt for many years to come!

Rest In Peace Steve Jobs... you will be missed.

Apple Product history upto 2007 - double-click to enlarge image

The landmark TV commercial that spawned a super-brand... The Apple Mac

Musical Haircuts - 100+ Rockstar hair styles

2011-10-04T16:48:00.000-07:00

Warning: Staring at this pic might make you want to grab a guitar & let your hair down. Or book an expensive appointment with your hair stylist.

Another cool cut via Fast Company. Double-click to enlarge image.

This poster's a winning work of art. One that launched a thousand faces:)

If you're into hair styling and coiffure craft, stick this on your wall. I mean both, your Facebook & your salon wall. Now that's a rockstar branding tip!

Thanks to @lamarialeja for finding this cool piece.

Order Order... No sex in the courtroom!

2011-09-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

Did you hear about the righteous judge who promptly had the fornicating couple (caught in flagrante delicto) thrown out of his courtroom citing...
"The only thing that gets laid in my courtroom is a complaint."

OK I admit! I came up with that one. But I must credit this funny, true story from The NZ Herald (Sex romp couple get a warning) for the inspiration behind that joke. Here are a few cool cartoons:

If you like the above, check out Off The Law by Charles Fincher - a blogful of lawyer jokes & classic legal humour. Some of the gags are so funny, it'd be criminal not to share them. But why litigate when you can propagate!

Stunt Poetry - Amazing work of art on film

2011-09-19T01:45:00.000-07:00

A beautiful work of art on film.
~Stunt Poetry in Free Motion~

Watch. Enjoy. Share...

Stunt Poetry from Rishi Kaneria on Vimeo.

Rugby World Cup Opening Night Video 09092011

2011-09-09T05:04:00.000-07:00

We just attended the spectacular Opening Night of the Rugby World Cup 2011 down at the Auckland Viaduct.

By far the biggest sporting event in New Zealand ever, the whole city came alive - putting a great show for the RWC Launch on 09092011 - with 12,000 rugby fans and party goers crowding into Party Central aka The Cloud at Queen's Wharf and about 20,000 more milling out on the streets.

Some of the highlights of the night were awesome hakas, the arrival of a flet of wakas, a live show by the Finn brothers and Dane Rumble, a stunning fireworks display and surprise - skyscraper walkers. (see video)

Game 1 of RWC was New Zealand v/s Tonga. Result - All Blacks won 41 - 10.

Feel like a laugh? Try a Social Media Joke.

2011-08-17T01:06:00.000-07:00

1st friend: "I have FB, Tw, Google+, Li, YouTube, Skype.."
2nd friend: "Dude, do you have a life?"
1st friend: "OMG! No! Send me the link." :)

Tweet it out. After all, you are what you tweet! Or share it with your FB friends for a chuckle. Nothing like some good social media humour.

Thanks for a good laugh! Cheers @amysticgirl :D)

Sand Art - an art form most extraordinaire !!!

2011-08-08T03:23:00.000-07:00

All artists are gifted. Some paint amazingly well. Then some paint amazing well, in tune to a melody. And then there are artists who...

Paint amazingly well in tune to a melody, using sand on a light box as their medium of expression, creating breath-taking beauty with every grain!

Sand Art... takes story-telling to another dimension of genius. Enough said. Watch the videos. Prepare to be blown away. Be amazed. Enjoy!

Kseniya Simonova Amazing Sand Art - Ukraine's Got Talent

Sand Art - set to Louis Armstrong's 'What a Wonderful World'

SMURF yourself... create your own avatar

2011-08-01T02:47:00.000-07:00

Here's a cool, fun app created for the recently released hybrid live-action animation film ... The SMURFS (Official Movie Website).

Check out my Smurf avatar with a personalised message to Rico my roaringly famous (and scandalous) furry friend from Air New Zealand.

You cab go Smurf yourself here at www.besmurfed.com Select a Smurf, dress it up, make it talk, and share with friends!

(I found this app via @Tsevina Thanks, Sasha. Great find!)

The Significance of a Work Contract

2011-07-25T02:07:00.000-07:00

On March 25, 2011 in San Francisco, CreativeMornings Mike Monteiro, Design Director, and co-founder of Mule Design Studio gave an amazing and very entertaining talk.

Together with his trusted professional lawyer, he took on the establishment, giving a stirring presentation to creatives/ designers on the importance of signing a contract before taking on any work.

The talk encourages freelancers, small service providers and contractors who take on jobs/ projects to protect their professional rights first. Set the work-frame first before work begins. Get the Terms & Conditions locked down and out of the way.

Mike Monteiro believes designers have enormous power and they should realize that. On the other hand, companies should realize that when designers are duly paid, they'll do what they love doing even better!

2011/03 Mike Monteiro | F*ck You. Pay Me. from SanFrancisco/CreativeMornings on Vimeo.

Here comes the Spiderman... Amazing Trailer

2011-07-21T01:23:00.000-07:00

The Spiderman cometh in all his web-slinging glory. All-new cast but the same, strong storyline we've all come to love. Welcome back, Peter Parker. t'da... here comes the Spiderman!

Very funny ad... with a very deep message

2011-06-28T03:02:00.000-07:00

A really cool ad film. Classic creative! Check it out...

FYI: Silva is a huge Swedish company that makes navigation equipment (compasses, GPS, precision and outdoor equipment etc.)

The very deep message: Never... Ever... Argue... with a lighthouse. Your call.

Book Sculptor Extraordinaire - Artistic Genius

2011-05-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

Brian Dettmer is a Book Sculptor. He painstakingly carves out books (or alters them, as he prefers) with only a scalpel - a creative world-first!

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, should award Brian with a Grand Prix Design Lion or a Titanium & Integrated Lion for creating a rare art form in itself. He deserves it. His artistic genius deserves it.

On a lighter note, (and I'm only guessing)... Brian must really hate books! Or he must be a typical digital native - a denizen of a future e-world where people don't have a clue what a good ol' hardback is good for. But thanks to Brian's genius, we're sure touch-feel-see books (as we know them) will be around longer. (Joke over. Insert smiley face here!)

For more pictures of his amazing work, check out this blog post via DesignTAXI or visit Brian Dettmer's website here.

A higher form of energy - Robin Williams

2011-05-26T03:11:00.000-07:00

Some people defy description. Because they are beyond definition. The multi-talented genius that is Robin Williams is one such form of energy.

To say Robin Williams is a highly gifted human being is only stating the obvious. Check out these clips from his "Weapons of Self-Destruction" Stand-up Tour and you'll know exactly what I mean.

Robin Williams "Make Your Music Awesome" from Robin Williams on Vimeo.

Robin Williams "Nascar Hybrid Race" from Robin Williams on Vimeo.

Robin Williams "You Can Dance to That" from Robin Williams on Vimeo.

Robin Williams "Cyber Witches Coven" from Robin Williams on Vimeo.

Here are Top 5 funniest lines from Robin Williams' movies:

“If we bury you ass up, I’ve got a place to park my bike”. Patch Adams (1998)

“You know what you are - you're an ass-half. Takes two of you to make an ass-whole.” Cadillac Man (1990)

“Excuse me, sir. Seeing as how the V.P. is such a V.I.P., shouldn't we keep the P.C. on the Q.T.? 'cause if it leaks to the V.C. he could become a M.I.A. and then we'd all be put out on K.P.”. Good Morning Vietnam (1987)

“Carpe dentum. Seize the teeth”. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)

“Whenever a big white man picks up a banjo, my cheeks tighten”. RV (2006)

To round off, here's a Robin Williams gem I really, really like:

"You're only given a little spark of madness.

You mustn't lose it."

What does it take to change the world?

2011-05-09T00:25:00.000-07:00

Click on the pic to enlarge

I found this on talented photographer James Hancox's Facebook profile. He informed me it's part of a marketing campaign for Apple computers.

I think it's a stellar piece of writing. I fell in love with it the moment my eyes fell on it. It's not everyday you come across such strength and beauty - on a poster. Hats off to the creator!

If you ask me, it's the long form definiton of "genius". Loaded with truth, it's more than just a corporate philosophy. I think it's a way of life. No wonder it reminds me of all-time greats like Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, Thomas Alva Edison, Christopher Columbus, Sir Edmund Hillary...

What do you think?

Love knows no Limits - 6

2011-05-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

For the first time in 2011, we bring back our Love Knows No Limits series. This time we're featuring a truly odd couple.

Take a look at this extremely rare video clip. It clearly shows real love is blind and knows no limits, no differences, no boundaries... whatsoever.

No matter what, real love conquers all - across land and water, sky and beyond!

Naughtiest Picture from The Royal Wedding

2011-05-03T00:30:00.000-07:00

Viewer discretion advised. Some content may ruffle prudish feathers.

Here's an exclusive image of Kate & Will sure to "go down" in history as The Naughtiest Picture of The Royal Wedding. And probably the funniest.

Amazing angle. Great clarity. Very expressive. My talented photographer friends will agree there's definitely a juicy story in there somewhere. LOL.

True Story: Prince William of Wales seen here decked out in full royal regalia,

and Princess Catherine adorned in bridal splendour & designer glory,

make an appearance for the first time after being locked in wedlock,

much to the cheer of the world, as their flower girl looks on - horrified !!!

Let's not "blow" this out of proportion but, there seems to be something rather loud and momentous going on on that balcony - which calls for a right royal reaction. Quite fittingly, it was straight after this historic act on Friday April 29, 2011 they were titled Duke & Duchess of Cambridge!

Some songs are like soldiers. They never die!

2011-05-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

Digable Planets - Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat) is one such soldier.

The epitome of cool from back in 1994, the song's greatness lies as much in its arrangement as striding two musical genres. A merry mix of smooth jazz tones laced with hip-hop underground rhythms. As for that seminal double-bassline, (pause for musical genius!) t'was clearly a sound never before heard in a rap, let alone forming the backbone of its melody.

Enough talk. Lights out. Time now for the very awesome...

We be to rap what key be to lock (horns) pup pa raa... pup pa raa...

A word of praise going out for the video direction. A rap video as calm as this is indeed rare. Great control, soft lighting, slick effects... while the use of black & white adds that subtle touch of class to the musicality.

Warning: This song is hard to stop once it starts playing in your head.
Like a true soldier (immortal musical soldier), it marches on. Enjoy...!

Powerful, touching, beautifully shot short film

2011-04-15T00:17:00.000-07:00

This is a beautifully shot film.
Intelligent. Touching. Strong yet subtle.
Leaves a lasting impression. And conveys an important message.

My take-out: Content used to be king. Today it is king, queen, prince, princess and... the money-maker. Quality content always wins. Thank you PurpleFeather for a great film. Cheers!

3 funnies to crack your dial - in a healthy way!

2011-04-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

I recently saw 3 TVCs all of which made me laugh, and go... "Now, that's a mad one!" Mad in a good way, of course and definitely blog-worthy.

Pass them on to someone you know. It might just crack up their dial... which may develop into a healthy bout of laughter. But if you just manage to pull off even a smile :-), you can pat yourself on the back (if your hand won't reach that far, stand in front of a mirror, look yourself in the eye...) and say "Dude (or dudette as the case may be), your job here is done. Well done!"

Mars Chocolate Bars "Monks" Work. Rest. Play.

Wrigleys Eclipse "Parking Lot" - Intensely Strong Mint for seriously cold breath

Skittles "Touch Cat" Touch the Rainbow. No, seriously!

Three full LIKEs going out from me to the 3 ads.

Clever. Yes!

Crazy. For sure!

Captivating. Job not just done but... Well Done!

Have a ridiculously Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-16T19:20:00.000-07:00

Today is St. Patrick's Day - a day when everyone becomes a little Irish - whatever it means!

At a time when the world is experiencing bushfires, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, we could all do with huge dollops of happiness. And heaps of luck would be nice too! On that positive note...

It must be said, the Irish have some of the funniest greetings, coolest prayers & most creative blessings. Gives a whole new twist to 'Gods must be crazy!' Sample these and leave that smile on, you lucky leprechaun:)

OK! That's not an Irish blessing. It's a random fact :)

(Just my way of checking you're not a laugh-bot!)

And my favourite one...

Seriously God, Thank you for thinking of... everything!

Blissfully, most festivals of the world bring luck, laughs & joy with them - in generous quantities! And, I'd like to wish everyone in the world a ridiculously (and deliriously) Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Remember, there's a whole lot more to life. Live. Laugh. Love. Lighten up.

Get that right and that's your pot of gold. More you share it, more it grows.

Festive Feel-good Fix: Celebrate this song charged with positive energy.
A gift from U2 - the world's top band, Ireland's greatest gift to the world!

Business... it's all about Billy T

2011-02-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

The hilarious Billy T. James

Running a business... is tough business. Not so much for those who learn to mix work with a bit of play. Those who don't take themselves (or others) too seriously. People who retain the humility to take the mickey (or billy) out of themselves and keep the madness alive. Everyday.

Come to think of it, what is business if not all Billy T...
Ability - Possibility - Responsibility - Accountability - Profitability

That's it. Nothing more to it than that. Get it right and you'll be an overnight success - in 10 years! Just remember to work smart very hard. And don't forget to sweat your glutes off. May improve your marketability!

The coveted yellow towel trophy

Incidentally, my muse for this post... Billy T. James (1948 - 1991) was in the hee-haa business. A Maori entertainer, he was New Zealand's most famous comedian - funniest man to have ever walked Godzone. There's something about him. One look and you crack up. Just look at him!

There's even a popular Comedy Award named after him where the winner takes home a Billy T trademark - the ridiculously famous yellow towel.

In fact, he was so good at the business of making people cry with laughter, God called him upstairs a score or two early. Not fair, big G!

Here's Billy T's screenography + 3 ticklish gags. Pure enjoyability!

Happy Valentine's Day. Feel the love. Share it.

2011-02-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

Some things need to be believed to be seen.
Like the power of love > http://twitpic.com/3zhdcm
Life's good... on the romantic side!

Slow Down. Stop to smell the flowers!

2011-01-25T19:53:00.000-08:00

Do yourself a favour, WORLD...

Slow Down - that's my mantra for 2011. My one advice to my near and dear, my family, to everyone I know, to my blog readers and to myself.

There's just too much going on in the world. There's just too much happening around everyone. Is it worth the stress to keep up with it all? I think not. Instead, give yourself space to breathe easy.

B - R - E - A - T - H - E

Learn to say NO. You don't have to watch every movie, download every song, try every restaurant, check out every sale, read every new book, get your hands on every new gizmo, attend every event, get every new app, crack every level of every game... you don't have to do everything.

Say YES to yourself more often. Enjoy nature. Cherish your relationships. Laugh more often. Even at silly things. Listen to your fav. song loud. Do what you like doing more often. Sleep in on weekends. Try yoga. Meditate. Swim. Walk. Run. Gym. Cycle down a slope. Kiss the breeze as you go!

Ditch the guilt. The recession is over. Yes indeed! You can enjoy fine food with a glass of good (pour beverage of choice here)... without giving your banker a coro thrombo!

I'm not saying turn into a bag of lazy bones or a day dreamer. Be alert. Be active. But be organised. Madness is good. Chaos is not. Slow down... to do more. Smile at the mirror. Walk in the rain. Stop to say thank you... to smell the flowers. Celebrate life today. Wake up and smell the coffee - some other day.

For now, just let go a little. Pause for inner peace.

Take a chill pill. Take a break. Take it easy on yourself.

Free...

... your ...

...mind.

Now... scroll up and read this post again... slowly!

(-: Have a great 2011 :-)

Trivedi meets the Obamas at Gandhi home

2010-11-18T20:11:00.000-08:00

Michelle & Barack Obama sign the Guest Book at

Mani Bhavan - Gandhi's home in Mumbai (Nov 6, 2010)

This actually happened... although I still had to pinch myself to believe my eyes when I saw the newsclip on Indian national TV! (see video below)

Breaking News: My Aunt, Usha Trivedi, met Michelle & Barack Obama when they visited Mani Bhavan in Mumbai, during their first visit to India (Nov 5-7, 2010) - a historic visit for the Obamas and... Trivedis!

Mani Bhavan was Mahatma Gandhi's residence in Mumbai and now belongs to a caretaker trust. Usha Bafoi (that's Indian for Aunt = Dad's sister) joined Mani Bhavan in the 1950s as an apprentice and is today, a Trustee.

If that's not amazing enough, she'd even met Martin Luther King, Jr. & his wife Coretta Scott-King during their visit to India in 1959. She has fond memories of going shopping with Coretta around Bombay city.

Martin Luther King, Jr. held Gandhi in high esteem and was so inspired by his teachings, he embraced Gandhian principles of non-violence during his Nobel Peace Prize-winning fight for Civil Rights & Equality.

Barack Obama has always considered Martin Luther King, Jr. his idol (certainly shows in his oratory skills!) and in turn, has a special place in his heart for Gandhiji - his mentor's mentor.

(-: Hey Obama... you got USA, we got USHA :-)

Both Michelle & Barack Obama were touched when they saw an entry in an old guest book written by Martin Luther King, Jr.! Quite visibly, they felt privileged to be at a place of such historic value & personal relevance.

As she said in the video, President Obama was so happy, he kept shaking her hand. (-: Now I know why Bafoi hasn't washed her hands since :-)

Here's an article in USA Today on Obamas' visit to Mani Bhavan and how they paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi when there.

Happy Diwali & Prosperous New Year

2010-11-04T01:03:00.000-07:00

If there's anything the world needs more of right now... it's JOY, PEACE & PROSPERITY. Here's a festival that celebrates just that!

Wishing you and your family a very Happy Diwali

and a Joyous, Peaceful & Prosperous New Year!

Is Maria Sharapova the world's No.1 grunter?

2010-10-27T00:08:00.000-07:00

Maria Sharapova - most photographed sportswoman in the world

3 times Grand Slam Winner and Grand Glam Gal Maria Sharapova is the star attraction in the ASB Classic Women's Tennis tournament being played in Auckland right now (Jan 3 - 8, 2011). But I wonder...

Shrieking at 101 decibels (= small aircraft landing), could sheeeya:) be the loudest tennis grunter ever. See the video. Judge for yourself!

Maria Sheeeayaarapova code name Supersonic Diva, Shriek Foreva ...

Epic mash-up of the game-set-&-match-winning Sharapova scream!

Here are a few press articles dedicated to grunting & screaming in women's tennis. I found them quite informative and pretty amusing:

Maria Sharapova's grunts at Wimbledon 'like a pneumatic drill'

Grunting girls of tennis told to cut the racket

Top 10 grunts in women's tennis (with video links:)

And... The Very Best Tennis Grunts (with videos)

Kick-ass creative for Diesel from Argentina

2010-10-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

Easily the top creative campaign of the year - from Santos, Buenos Aires.

Diesel deals a swift kick in the proverbial... to everybody!

AssLand - where people who speak through their ass get what they deserve!

Creatively speaking, you could call it Argentina's answer to the Old Spice Man. On a larger scale, it's a much-needed kick in the whole world's bum!

Butt seriously (sorry! coudn't resist it:) this campaign for Diesel Sneakers kicks ass on so many levels. Gotta love how they've come up with so many hilarious extensions of the concept. To see more of the crazy, wild, fun creative outpourings, CLICK HERE & laugh your ( o ) off.

100% pure Social Madness

2010-10-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

Here's a bit of 100% pure social media humour...

Q- What would you get if Facebook, Twitter & YouTube merged into one?

A- You-Twit-Face

Now...

Q- What would happen if LinkedIN, FourSquare & MySpace joined the race?

A- Square-Book-In-My-Face, You Space-Linked Twit-Tube

And here's some more Social Madness from the web:

And some more SM humour from the legendary Scott Adams' Dilbert.com comic strip:

Be great if you could send me your favourite SM gags/ gaffs/ guffaws via comments...
Go on... get social with it. Stay connected. And of course, keep the madness alive :-)

Yep, that's me... good ol' Social Media Evangelist me!

Happy Birthday, Mr. Madness! You're 1 today.

2010-09-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

22nd Sep is a red letter day in Mr. Madness' calendar.

It's the day he was born!

This blog started today - a year ago!

For a wee 1 yr old, it speaks so much ;-)

Happy Birthday, @Mr_Madness!

From the bottom of his crazy heart, Mr. Madness would like to say:
Thank you all very much for the love, support and great feedback.

A huge thanks going out to my friend, Matt Shirtcliffe for suggesting I start. Always wanted to. He got me to do it! Got to meet so many people and learn so much - all thanks to blogging. All in all, it's been a fun one...

As always, I promise to keep the madness alive!

WTF does Social Media mean today?

2010-09-05T18:51:00.000-07:00

An informative slideshow on Social Media - worth a watch!

WTF is Social Media NOW?

Advertising is fun and at times... too funny

2010-07-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

Funny ads linger way longer than they're paid to. Here are some hilarious ones that stuck in my head over the years. (Most've made me laugh in my sleep!) Advertising classics each, they're not just award-winners but heart-winners. Chuckle. Guffaw. Snort... have a good laugh!

funny ads, funny TV commercials, very funny, funniest, best ads, biggest ads

funny ads, spoof ads, crazy ads, Ikea, Carlton, Pedigree, Tide, Skittles, Honda, mad ads

If you're reading this, clearly you're an adfreak like me. Bonus points for sticking around: Here are 3 more rib-ticklingly funny ads for you... enjoy!

Sprint - Locker Room

Berlitz - May Day! May Day!

Tide - Talking Stain

(-: It's an ad mad world :-)

U2: With or Without you... enjoy!

2010-07-01T02:22:00.000-07:00

An all-time U2 classic from The Joshua Tree: Without or Without You.

Bass: Adam Clayton, Drums: Larry Mullen Jr., Vocals: Bono, Lead: The Edge

Bra v/s Arg: Best Before-After ads I've seen

2010-06-30T18:29:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows South America is SCCER-MAD. But when Brazil play Argentina, it's more than sport. The proof is in the advertising.

An advertising classic, a case study in typography

The Before Ad: Tulipan, an Argentinian condom brand, took an ad out before a match reflecting how cocksure;-) Arg were of a win. Using simple typography, the ad is a visual pun on how Arg would penetrate the Brazilian defence on the field.

The After Ad: In one of the best comebacks ever, the Brazil Football Foundation replied with an ad. Brazil won 3-1. Look what they did to Arg.

While on football and with FIFA fever upon us right now, here's a list of some amazing footy flicks:

Escape to Victory
Looking for Eric
Offside
Soka Afrika
Bend it like Beckham
Goal! ...and of course...
'Write the Future' - Nike Football's epic 3 minute short

For sure, Escape to Victory remains my favourite football film of all time. (If you haven't seen it, kick yourself right now.) Click here to check out CNN's The Screening Room report on Soccer in the Cinema.

And if this kinda action is really up your boots, check out Kicking and Screening - the football film festival in New York which celebrates soccer cinema. See what happens when football frenzy meets cinematic magic!

Hullo Ladies. Look at me. I'm on an elephant!

2010-06-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

View all the 2010 Cannes Lions Winners via CampaignBrief

The Cannes Lions Advertising Festival - the biggest and most significant industry event - celebrates creativity and awards the best in the world. Truly, an Advertising World Cup played every year.

This year, the Cannes Film Lions Grand Prix went to the wickedly brilliant Old Spice 'I'm on a horse' TVC. You'll fall for it the first time you watch it. Keeps you rivetted from start to the finish... with a flourish!

I'm on a horse... and a Cannes Lion!

It uses a powerful film technique where the protagonist speaks to the viewer in first person - taking full charge of the narrative by talking directly to the camera. Opens on this chiselled dude with a tude (more on him later) talking product benefit as scenarios morph seamlessly and props drop in suddenly - without digressing or diluting the humour.

Indeed, a rare ad that combines expert story-telling and crafty film-making. The true genius of this flick is in its taut, quick-paced edit. For more dope, check out this interview with Craig Allen & Eric Kallman of Wieden+Kennedy, Portland, the guys behind this gem on film.

The entire ad was shot as one continuous take... with very little CGI

I guess a huge (if not lion's) share of the success of this ad goes to the flawless timing and delivery of its main man - Isaiah Mustafa, a former NFL footballer (that explains the godly bod). Since the Old Spice ad came out (Feb 10), Isaiah's become a Twitter phenom, made it on The Ellen Show and even has his own Wikipedia profile. Indeed, he's on a horse!

Look at me. Look down. Now back to me. I'm on an elephant !!!

A bath with an elephant... al fresco and au naturel (the elephant, not me!) Who'd have ever thought? But then, Nothing is Impossible. It happened one evening in Kerala, India in a remote place called Thekkady.

While the chilled water took my breath away, the jet from Jumbo - and that's one super-forceful showerhead - beat the sleep outta me for weeks!

Mr. Madness would like to thank Dee for shooting the elephant videos

Forget horses, elephants and lions... W-T-F is she on !?!

Will someone please call her doctor?

FIFA Fever: Just what the Doctor ordered

2010-06-15T00:43:00.000-07:00

2010 FIFA World Cup – the world's largest sporting event

Sport brings people together.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup does just that. Apart from the 32 participating nations, even non-playing nations (incl. the world's most populated: India, China, Russia, ASEAN) closely follow and enjoy every match of the event.

A not-so-quiet, very colourful SA fan

No contact with Earth

Nelson Mandela, who could not attend the Opening Ceremony

due to a sudden tragedy, seen here holding the FIFA World Cup

Packed stadiums...

die-hard fans...

the crowd roars...

Let's hear it for... Africa!

F for Football. F for Feel-good.

With all of Africa's colourful energy as seen at the Opening Ceremony... the 2010 FIFA World Cup is high on feel-good. The dances on the field (remember Roger Milla) and off the field (Diski dance); packed stadiums, crazed fans; the buzzy drone of the Vuvuzelas, the signature crowd roar...

The constant drone heard during matches is the sound of Vuvuzelas

- traditional SA horn and ancient instrument used to summon people.

Due to the loud noise (104+ db) seen as a nuisance, vuvuzelas are

'facing the music' and maybe banned from the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

More than goals, FIFA is about magical moments. On the field, it's about rare sporting encounters, mad-funny outbursts (see Maradona video below), brilliant flashes of talent, years of practice transforming into expertly timed headers, dribbles, passes... it's about golden boots and yellow cards, nail-biting shoot-outs and career-changing penalty-kicks...

Off the field, it's a whole different ballgame. It's about fans packed in pubs, worldwide kids' doodle competitions, families rooting for their national team from living rooms, record numbers calling in sick at work (see comments:), streetside parties and traffic jams, and that "goosebumps moment" as the commentator goes Gooooooooooal!

Only Maradona can fly on the field :-)

Funny Footy Moment: Argentina coach & global football icon, Maradona, not known for understatement, celebrates Arg's 2-1 win over Peru in the World Cup qualifier, by skidding along the soaking turf on his ample belly.

NZ All Whites - in it to win it

New Zealand All Whites perform the Maori haka

New Zealand All Whites: Follow them on Twitter.com/NZ_Football

For New Zealand, the 2010 FIFA WC has special significance as they've qualified (defeating Bahrain in Wellington in Nov '09) and are playing on the world stage after 28 years! Surely, Ricki Herbert and his boys will give it all they've got. Go the All Whites!

In Group 'F', NZ plays Slovakia 15 June, Italy 20th & Paraguay 24th.

Update: NZ held Slovakia (1-1). Winston Reid scored an equaliser in the 93rd minute (NZ's 1st FIFA goal) of a dramatic finish. Click to Reid, Reid and Ryan-Reid all about the historic match.

Gotta love the #WorldCup!

The Psychology of the 2010 FIFA World Cup

At a time when:
* the world's talking oil spills and the weather brings untimely chills,
* Europe has the Euro blues and Mid-East nuclear issues;
* Skies are polluted by volcanic ash and our very own cosmic trash,
the 2010 FIFA World Cup couldn't have come at a better time.

In terms of mass psychology, it's catharsis. The world needed a powerful stimulus to purge its psyche of the ravages of recession. It takes an event of the (physical/ economical) scale of FIFA WC to generate enough positive energy so as to bring the world back from the brink of (emotional/ financial) depression, trigger economies back on track, and most importantly restore public morale/ consumer confidence worldwide.

Anything that galvanizes tourism, telecom (mobile and online) and television simultaneously, has got to be global good news. So strap on yer beer boots and catch FIFA fever - it's good for you and it's just what the doctor ordered (incl. the spin doctors on Wall Street/ Madison Ave.)

Adidas Jabulani: Official 2010 FIFA World Cup Match Ball

At the end of the day, the game of football is the greatest winner and celebration seems to be universal emotion at the heart of FIFA.

Hardly surprising then, the official FIFA WC match ball is called the “Jabulani” which means “rejoice” or “to celebrate” in Zulu. Jabulani is an African name meaning “come to bring happiness to everybody”. See the Adidas Jabulani Wikipedia profile & official Match Ball webpage.

Adidas Football's The Quest - Trailer and lead-in to Facebook

Nike Football's stunning Write the Future TVC starring sports superstars

All ads capture special moments and pack them into time-tight capsules. Here are 8 of Kevin Roberts' favourite FIFA ads from around the world.

Black Eyed Peas perform at the FIFA Kick-off Celebration Concert

Music... that other great human bonding force, when combined with sport, goes beyond beauty. Check out the Official 2010 FIFA WC Kick-Off Celebration Concert on Vevo.com feat. Shakira, Alicia Keys, Black Eyed Peas... and an amazing line-up of local SA talent.

Here are the Top 10 stars to look out for at the 2010 World Cup.

Viva la FIFA!

From Kiwi bloke to Instant Dancing Sensation

2010-06-07T22:24:00.000-07:00

It's raining ads worldwide... fat, juicy big-budget TVCs. eg. Nike's Write the Future; Adidas Celebrate Originality; Dulux Walls, Samsung's 3D TV.

Closer to NZ, it's been Cadbury's Dancing Cow; Coruba Rum's slick Green Flash tvc; ANZ's funny as 'We live in your World" series; suave CEOs fronting up to the camera armed with signs (Rob Fyfe, Air NZ) and a fly-fishing rod (Paul Reynolds, Telecom) and even a 3D ad for BMW Mini.

This ad is fun from the get-go. Click on the image to view the ad.

But the ad that caught my fancy was the new Instant Kiwi ad where a bloke breaks into a mad jig on winning a lottery. With so much going on in the ad, it's Broadway gone Bollywood - but in a good way. A real visual feast! And the tagline It can all change in an instant has a catchy ring to it.

Read what DDB ECD, Toby Talbot has to say about it on NBR's Ad blog.

While on Instant Kiwi, here's a rewind back to classic ads from 80s & 90s.

Click for more info on the 'Bungy' ad above on the Classic Kiwi TV blog.

Click for more info on the 'Exam' ad above at The Inspiration Room.

Click here for the more recent but as hilarious Mexi-Doug series of ads.

Welcome to the Conversation Economy

2010-05-31T23:55:00.000-07:00

Aisha Hillary, Senior Marketing & New Media Specialist, SBS; me

Last week, I attended Social Media Junction - NZ's biggest event on the topic du jour. One of the keynote speakers, Aisha Hillary of SBS.com.au played a video loaded with factoids and trivia... which stuck in my mind.

Social Media is all about conversations and Socialnomics is the new economy. See the clip and you'll know what got millions of them started.

Is Social Media a fad... or a phenomenon?

For the skeptics out there, the above compilation is credited to Erik Qualman, who offers data sources in his book and website... SocialNomics.

If, like me, you enjoy UGC (user-generated content) without getting too caught up in it, you must check out the fascinating Did You Know videos. Pure brain-candy!

Mr. Madness would like to thank Geeta SK for the pic above.

Toyota iQ does a hi-5 with wi-fi

2010-05-27T02:00:00.000-07:00

This is fresh hi-tech.

Using a car as a mouse - to establish the new Toyota iQ is nimble as... make that a wicked genius of a guerilla / experiential promo idea !!!!!

Toyota iQ: techy hi-5 with ambient wi-fi

One of the sexiest ideas I've seen in NZ, I'd like to doff my hat first to the creative team, Matt Page & Carolyn Davis; and then to the geeks (with freaky iQs) at Saatchi & Saatchi - Peter Mangin and certified IT Ninja, Matthew Marsh who coded & created this to make it possible.

I've always said technology is a cool tool, but it's what you do with it that makes all the difference. Basically, the guys re-created a giant-scale computer that treats the Toyota IQ as a wireless mouse.

By mounting a webcam high atop a large screen, creating an Infra-Red motion-sensor field, fixing a green LED (see comment below) on the car that talks to the cam... and writing the software that tracks the Toyota iQ's movements as a mouse. Nimble? Yes. Simple? No way, Jose.

In case you're wondering, the mouse clicks from inside the car.

Nike Football puts on its FIFA shorts

2010-05-21T00:02:00.000-07:00

Love the flavour of football advertising? Then get ready for a season of awesome ads as the world's top brands vie off-the-field to cash in on the world's greatest sporting event. Kicking off with...

Nike Football unveils an action-packed short that brings together some of the world’s greatest players to inspire football lovers and sports fans everywhere. The epic 3-minute “Write the Future” film takes people on a journey that dramatically captures that one moment of sporting passion when headlines are written from a single pass, or one strike can bring a nation eternal happiness, while bringing others to their knees.

If netting eyeballs was their ultimate end, Nike just scored a major gooooooooal!

Some of the world’s best players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, Wayne Rooney, Fabio Cannavaro, Franck Ribery, Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, Theo Walcott, Patrice Evra, Gerard Pique, Ronaldinho, Landon Donovan, Tim Howard and Thiago Silva, are featured. Special guest cameos are made by tennis legend Roger Federer and basketball superstar Kobe Bryant. Homer Simpson completes the star-studded cast.

The short film will be aired on TV for the first time on May 22 during the European Club Final. Directed by renowned Hollywood director/ producer Alejandro G. Iñarritu (21 Grams, Babel), this epic football journey unfolds through a match of goal line clearances, game-winning tackles and lightning footwork that literally send a ripple effect across the world.

FIFA cha cha cha... or do the Diski Dance

2010-05-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

Diski is South African slang for football. Diski is the dance specially devised for 2010 FIFA World Cup by choreographer Wendy Ramokgadi.

Among the brightest ideas from around the world I've seen all year, it binds the whole nation into one big marketing team for the sporting event, boosting their tourism, talent, ticket sales and of course, morale.

All the rage in South Africa and surrounding nations, Diski Dance will soon spread to the rest of the world as it is performed in front of a global audience during the FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony on June 11.

The South African football team have learnt the dance, cabinet ministers have learnt the dance, and every official related to the 2010 FIFA World Cup... from stadium security, cleaners and coaches have learnt the DD.

Here's an excerpt from the South African Tourism site, and I've got to say... their spirit, the song and the dance moves are infectious:

What is Diski?

In South Africa, we have a different way of playing soccer. It's rhythmic, sometimes showy, but never boring. We call it Diski and it is uniquely South African. In Diski, every move has a name and there are different names from different parts of the country. Some are in Tswana, others Zulu, Sotho and even English. The moves have names like Tsamaya", "Heel Extension Mkhari" and "Chester" to mention a few.

We've put these five moves together to create a dance that is uniquely South African.

Start learning the soccer-based moves of South Africa's Diski dance and you'll start feeling the rhythm of African football - and the energy and passion that's in store for the world at the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

Read more about the rhythmic Diski Dance on the FIFA site here.

Learn the Footy cha cha dance moves here.

World... Watch out... FIFA 2010 is coming!

2010-05-12T18:01:00.000-07:00

The world's biggest, most widely watched sporting event... FIFA World Cup 2010 kicks off in Johannesburg, South Africa on Friday, June 11, 2010.

WHOOOSH - KABOOM !!!
The Footy 360 long range missiles can strike anywhere with devastating force

So, where will you be watching the game? Wherever you go... whatever you do... indoors, outside... watch out for those nasty frickin' F360s, man!

Visit the official FIFA website here.

View/ download Match schedules/ Time-table here.

Berlitz May Day: among the best virals ever!

2010-05-08T21:59:00.000-07:00

This one's a side-splitter. One of the most awarded viral ads of all time, this is from 2006, back when people were still figuring what a viral was.

The commercial was developed by BTS United Oslo (a WPP Company), and originally pointed to a website where people could download it and send it to their friends, as well as navigate to Berlitz Norway. The response was so large, Berlitz was forced to shut down the site.

Goes to show that even well-worn cliches will work with a clever story built around them. What happens when a newbie Coast Guard hotline operator is confronted with a 'May Day' in his first minute on the job? He commits a cock-up of titanic proportions. Classic stuff. What do you zink about it?

A stroke of genius is all you need

2010-04-28T16:17:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had an idea that seemed crazy — maybe crazy enough to work? Every invention starts out as an idea, and it only takes a bit of genius to make it reality. See how some of the greatest inventions were brought to life in The Stuff of Genius video podcast.

Recent episodes include:

•During World War II, William Mitchell made a discovery that led to the emergence of junk food for the masses. Learn how tapioca led to pop rocks and what powdered egg whites have to do with it.

•When Philo Farnsworth was just fourteen years old, he had an epiphany that changed his life -- and ours. Tune in and find out how this former sharecropper created the modern television.
•Norman Borlaug spent most of his life fighting world hunger and led the effort to grow more productive, disease-resistant wheat strains. Discover how Borlaug's wheat started a revolution.

I saw this article on HowStuffWorks. Liked it and instantly posted it to my blog. Owned by The Discovery Company, How Stuff Works is an awesome general knowledge website. Go there.

iPod > iPhone > iPad > next... iPeed > iPood

2010-04-21T23:03:00.000-07:00

The Apple iPad Nano Private is here! An amazing tech innovation, this one's for women only. Ladies... rejoice. Lads... soak it up.

Here's an old spoof from MadTV. With all the hype and hoopla around the iPad, it's made quite an online comeback and enjoying many hits lately.

What's truly remarkable (and quite bizarre) is that it's actually an iPod spoof made in 2006 - four years before the iPad launched.

Not fall-down funny or anything, but I guess it deserves a standing ovulation... erm, I mean ovation - just for eeriely freaky timing.

Let there be light... lasers, waterjets, fire !!!

2010-04-18T22:23:00.000-07:00

A few posts ago, I said "Let there be light... and lasers please!". Seems like the uber-talented French heard me and now, there's no stopping them.

Titled 'Water Poster', here's a wonderful display of laser lights projected on water (via Paris creative agency BDDP & Fils) using supersmart technology called AquaScript.

To mark the occasion of World Water Day (Mar 22, 2010), it was conceived to raise awareness of the perils of unsafe drinking water. The sheer brilliance of the concept takes one's breath away. Enjoy!

Solidarité from La Boite Concept on Vimeo.

Meanwhile, in exotic India, another gifted Frenchman, Yves Pepin (Creative Director of ECA2, he was Artistic Advisor, with Steven Spielberg & Ric Birch, for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games Opening/ Closing Ceremonies) has collaborated with the good souls at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar (named after Mahatma Gandhi) to create a mega project called the The Water Show.

A multi-technology installation, The Water Show combines high-end pyrotechnics, powerful waterjets, laser lights and film projections on a huge 130 x 70-feet water-screen and a precision-sync'ed musical fountain - to create a spectacular display of sound n' light, a mind-blowing fusion of colour n' design or just simply, awesome outdoor entertainment.

Click here to view amazing shots from the Opening Ceremony

Both the above ambients are out-and-out celebrations of creativity. Truth be told, it's ideas like these that make me glad I am a creative. Someday, I hope to come up with one such stunner... Until then, Jai Swaminarayan.

Mr. Madness would like to thank Mick/ Michael of Campaign Brief

and Jainesh/ Kalpesh/ Vipul of Akshardham for this post.

Fatal Attraction... Love knows no Limits - 5

2010-04-16T00:05:00.000-07:00

For the first time in 2010, we bring back our Love Knows No Limits series.

This time we feature a honeymooning couple heavily in love. The intimate shots from their album clearly show love is blind - so are lovers. It's true. Real love knows no limits of colour, nationality, body shape or weight.

Acc. to skeptics, the man in the pics married drop-dead gorgeous Amazon Amanda, of USA, only for a Green Card. But from the lovey-dovey poses, methinks it's purely a case of fatal attraction. What do you think?

Mr. Madness would like to thank Zubin Singh for this post. No, it's not him above!

Woof barf howl = 'I am mad' in dog-lingo

2010-04-15T01:25:00.000-07:00

Of all those insane videos floating on the web, there's something nakedly human about this one. What I particularly liked is the wife remains absolutely calm through the crazed man's bizarre histrionics. She must be so used to him!

When Snoop Doggy Dawg heard about the incident, he instantly recorded this protest rap on behalf of the dogs, in pure Dawg-dialect:
Bow Wow Wow yippee-yelp, yippee-yo,
Drop it like a snizzle on my drizzle,
Put a chisel to yo Shih Tzu Schnitzel,
Drop it like a Bow Wow Wow (repeat x26)

Let there be light... and lasers please!

2010-04-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

Over the past 7 months in Auckland, I've seen some very cool light projections and laser displays.

Last year, it was Telecom Night Lights - a son 'et lumiere extraordinaire.

To see more videos on the same, click here to go to my Youtube Channel.

Last month, at Urbis Design Day... it was The Dub Module (same guys did Telecom Night Lights) who transformed a static, empty corner of a wall into a simulated dynamic environment with amazing laser projections of live fish, animated whiteboard and even a ticking clock. See the video. Be amazed.

Just the other day, I saw this Graffiti Wall built by the guys at Saatchi & Saatchi IT - Matthew Marsh & Peter. A nifty installation, it featured a laser projector beaming a paint application on to a glass window screen. Then they bluetoothed a Wii remote to create a motion sensor field all around it. And the most ingenious thing, a digital spray-can - Matthew actually soldered an Infra-red laser pointer into a bottle!

Matthew Marsh spray-painting his digital canvas

@Mr_Madness... I've been GRAFFITI'd

Everytime you press the head of the digital spray-can, it emits an IR beam which is detected by the Wii remote to turn the spray-can into a wireless mouse, and lo! behold... colour on the graffiti wall. Genius!

This may make you cry with laughter

2010-04-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

Here's an outrageously hilarious commercial for Tide.

Conceived by Leo Premutico & Jan Jacobs (when they were ECDs at Saatchi & Saatchi NY, pre-Johannes Leonardo), it features a talking stain - the real star of the ad.

Simple idea. Killer execution. Memorable end result.

The above also features the best use of gibberish in an ad ever.
As for best use of gibberish in a feature film, this comes to mind.

This scene makes me fall off my chair - everytime!

Mission Bay Jazz Festival - a musical feast

2010-03-24T23:17:00.000-07:00

Live music well played is good for the heart n' soul. Few things in life can top it. Add in some fresh air by the beach, a full-moonlit beach and an outdoor bar with Mt. Rangitoto as the backdrop - and it all sounds dreamy.

That's exactly what Auckland's annual Mission Bay Jazz Festival is about. For $10 a pop, you can see 14 bands playing live - at the same spot.

My first time at the fest and I was half-expecting just jazz by the bay. Happily, I discovered some cool rock bands incl. two awesome ones:

The Recliner Rockers - true to their name, they belted out hard bluesy rock tracks. A seasoned bunch of performers, these guys are a class act!

Want to have a listen? Check out the videos.

The Flaming Mudcats - if blues is your thing, here it is. These talented pros are on top of their game. Wait till the harmonica meets the guitar!

Feel like some vintage blues?

Revista Época : One week means a lot

2010-03-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Here's a classic commercial from back in 2000. It features a soundtrack way ahead of its times.

The 3-minute commercial was produced by W/Brasil Publicidade in Sao Paulo, for Revista Época - a weekly news magazine. It was awarded the Grand Clio for commercials at the 42nd annual Clio Awards in Miami.

And the Nobel Peace Prize goes to...

2010-03-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

Guess who (rather what's) among the contenders for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010? The Internet = a weapon of mass construction. I heart that.

The most powerful social interface known to man being put to the good of mankind. To my mind, that's the smartest use of technology to date.

Power to the people. Love & Peace.

Can your feature-rich cellphone do this?

2010-03-14T16:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a hilarious commercial for Sprint. Always cracks me up. Just goes to show, sometimes silly funny just works. Have a look. Have a good one:)

The Power of Co-Creation - cool eye candy

2010-03-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

Another awesome Sony vid for Sony Ericsson. Good Sf/x. Have fun. N'joy.

Happiness just happens!

2010-03-11T19:26:00.000-08:00

06-03-2010... a special occasion, a memorable evening

Last Saturday, we had the pleasure & privilege of having two wonderful couples over for dinner. Our Guests of Honour:

Matt Shirtcliffe, Creative Director, Saatchi & Saatchi | DGS - the direct & digital agency; and his lovely wife, Mary
David Gapes, Editor, Admedia & Fastline - NZ's only advertising magazine; and his lovely wife, Ingrid

L-R: Me & Dee, Ingrid & David, Matt & Mary

Both, Matt & David, helped me a great deal in 2009 and for that, we invited them over to express our gratitude.

My lovely wife, Dee cooked up some yum home-style Indian and we had a memorable time amid spicy skewers, crispy papadoms, aromatic curries and some massages (on an electronic massage chair, mind you:)

All in all, a great time was had by all. Indeed a joy to know such nice people. Shall sign-off with an original:

When beautiful people get together, happiness just happens!

Horoscopes... with a humungous pinch of salt

2010-03-03T19:09:00.000-08:00

Noticed how, of late, people have become pros at prediction. Everyone's got 20-20 vision of the future and knows exactly what's going to happen.

That said, I reckon astrologers have mastered the art of random prediction. Ok! Ok! It's not all random. They have their moon-sky charts, vague intergalactic numbers and some astro-gunk on planetary angles.

Random or not, I think there's a funny side to horoscopes. Like all else in life, never take them too seriously.

Here's some highly unscientific stuff I made up that made it to the shelves. Instructions: To be taken with a massive pinch of salt. It's Ok if you vomit.

Ur horoscope for today: U will double-click on a picture to read it.

Then download & save it, says ur big fat Uranus.

Guess what? It's all going your way today. You... lucky you!

Even ur Pluto says the exact same thing as above. Jolly good heavens!

Q - Why do ads go viral? A - Ask Evian.

2010-03-02T17:38:00.000-08:00

Viral marketing is the cheapest and probably most effective form of marketing today. It involves content so contagious, it catches on and gets shared rapidly across online communities. Call it a social ripple effect.

Q - So why does some content (be it an ad, movie clip, song video, news story) go viral while some does not? That's a biggie and if you find the answer, let me know. Here's my A - If content is king, data is king-maker.

Media experts go to great lengths to ensure the ads go viral, at times adopting techniques like seeding. To seed an ad is to strategically plant content when & where the target prospect (a person most likely to spread the virus, pass it on, infect others) will receive it.

Q - But how does one identify a target prospect?
A - Relevant, accurate and scientifically sorted data.

Q - And just how does one acquire such quality data?
A - Ask Google Analytics, Dataminers, Media Researchers. Or Evian:)

The highly contagious Evian Waterboy

The very infectious Evian Roller-babies

Here's a list of the Top 10 viral ads (all 10 are winners!) from back in 2007, when viral marketing was just about taking off. Although the list is dated, it's enjoyable all the same & even has all the YouTube links. Enjoy!

News Dots - Interactive News Mapping

2010-03-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

Came across a cool social networking tool the other day.

News Dots - an interactive news map based on the premise that all news stories around the globe are linked, if not directly then through another.

Can't help wondering, could this be the new model of how we consume our news? In these times of live video streaming and breaking news as they happen, I tend to agree. It sure seems a viable alternative to me.

Click here to check out the interactive tool and learn about the back-end tech that makes News Dots work.

______________________AND NOW_______________________

Here's a smart application of the social networking concept i.e. localisation on a commercial basis: Worth Talking Over from Monteith's beer of NZ.

They constructed an interactive map of all the red-hot-newsy topics of conversation (or Trending Topics, as Twitter calls it) and linked them together to give an indication of what's getting New Zealanders buzzing.

The brewers figured once they got them Kiwis chatting about the talk of the town, they'd talk it over a chilled beer (Monteith's, of course) for company. Definitely an idea worth talking over. I'll say cheers to that!

Sachin Tendulkar scores first ever 200 in ODI

2010-02-24T22:55:00.000-08:00

At the age of 36, Sachin Tendulkar - the Little Master - claimed the most elusive ODI record of all when he became the world's first cricketer to score a double century in the game's 38-year-old history.

The moment of glory... the stadium erupts... the crowd roars

Vital Stats of Sachin Tendulkar's record-breaking double ton:
He scored the historic knock of 200 not out (slamming 25 fours and 3 sixes off 147 balls) in the last over of the 2nd One Day International match v/s South Africa, on Feb 24, 2010 at Gwalior, while setting up a 153-run victory, leading India to a 2-0 series win.

Tendulkar beat Saeed Anwar & Charles Coventry's record of 194 runs, after beating the Indian record of 186, set by himself in '99 against New Zealand. Listen to Sachin speak right after his moment of glory:

Sachin Tendulkar... a living legend... yet so humble

Here are some eloquent words of praise for Sachin from Michael Clarke, Aussie Twenty20 skipper and Daniel Vettori, NZ cricket captain.

To check out the incredible haul of World Records Sachin has set during his illustrious sporting career, and to read about his rise to super-stardom from very modest beginnings, visit his Wikipedia page.

Power of slommo - goosebumps guaranteed

2010-02-24T21:15:00.000-08:00

Watch this TVC. It's goosebumps guaranteed. That's the emotive power of film in slommo. Cleverly used, it can say so much so well.

All public service ads serve good causes. But the degree of impact differs.
This ad in particular has cut-through. Watch it. Share it. It could save lives.

The above also shows that film as an effective communication medium is still unparalleled. Nothing can quite surpass the sensuality of audio-video. Whether you watch it at work, at home or on the bus - it still works.

Parting thought: Why don't we have seat belts on trains and buses ???

Old Spice TVC - a bloody MAN of an ad

2010-02-24T20:10:00.000-08:00

Here's a wickedly awesome Old Spice ad. A commercial that makes you fall for it the first time you watch it. (*Love at first frame.) Not only does it keep you rivetted from start to finish, it has you laughing out loud.

It uses a powerful film technique where the protagonist speaks to the viewer in first person - taking full charge of the narrative by talking directly into the camera. Opens on this rock-solid dude (more on him later) talking product benefit as scenarios morph seamlessly and props drop in suddenly - without digressing or diluting the humour.

Indeed, a rare ad that combines expert story-telling and crafty film-making. The true genius of this flick is in its taut, quick-paced edit.

Once you've got a good thing going, recreate the magic in half the time...

For more dope on the ad, check out the interview with Craig Allen & Eric Kallman of Wieden+Kennedy, Portland, the guys behind this gem of an ad.

I guess a lot of the credit for this ad goes to the flawless timing and delivery of its main man. He is Isaiah Mustafa, a former NFL footballer (that explains the godly bod). Since appearing in the Old Spice ad (Feb 2010), Isaiah's become a Twitter phenom, made it on The Ellen Show and even has his own page on Wikipedia. Indeed, he's on a horse!

*Love at first frame - Now I know I've used that phrase before. That was for the Sony GT4 ad which once again, is a rare blend of fine story-telling and killer film-making. (Click here to view the ad)

Truck Art - not just legs, this idea's got wheels

2010-02-22T15:32:00.000-08:00

If you thought all truckies were big, burly, loud-tooting, oft-swearing, mean menacing mofos hurtling down in metallic monsters on the motorway, it's time you brought in your perceptions for a rehaul.

Here's a bunch of German truckies with appreciation for art and love of creativity. Spreading smiles for miles and having a bit of fun on the way as they trail massive loads across interstate borders in Europe.

Last one left... time to stock up

Pepsi Lite - so light, it defies gravity

If you must tug a load, tote it

Hmmm... something fishy going on in there

Truth be told, his head is up his arse

Amazon Kindle - One library to go, please

Pringles Hot & Spicy... Caution: Highly inflammable. Keep safe distance.

As they say, an idea can come from anywhere.

But only the good ones go places.

Mr. Madness would like to thank Meeta Parekh for this post.

Winter Olympics 2010 - deadly mesmerizing

2010-02-16T19:26:00.000-08:00

The Vancouver Winter Olympics 2010 are simply mesmerizing.

Just look at the figure skating pairs... they are incredible. It's difficult enough to stand straight on both feet in snow. Wonder how the skaters leap, loop & land on blades on ice. And they make it look so easy.

Russians, Germans, Croats and Chinese figure skating pairs... executing beautifully choreographed and painstakingly practised routines. The phrase - practice makes perfect - comes alive in every performance.

At the time of writing, I'm watching the Silver Medal winners (Chinese duo, Qing & Jian) - their set was jaw-droppingly perfect. Apparently, they've been practising & perfecting the fine art of ice-skating from the age of 6!

About the Gold Medal winners (Chinese duo, Xue & HongBo), they are a married couple who came out of retirement last year to try for the Olympic gold medal - their last shot at winning - which has eluded them since they began skating together in 1992. Finally, they have their first (and China's first ever) gold medal in figure skating - a medal held by Russia for the last 46 years. A huge, historic win indeed.

As for the deadly side of the Vancouver Winter Olympics 2010, I have to mention the tragic death of Georgian luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili, who died shortly after a horrific high-speed crash into an iron pillar, during a qualifying run. A promising young athlete, all of 21, lost in pursuing his passion for sport. A most unfortunate event.

Watch CBS News Videos Online

Incidentally, artificial track Luge is the fastest and most agile sledging sport of all. The Vancouver luge track is the fastest in the world and lugers have reached speeds as high as 97 miles per hour!

Meet Stephen Wiltshire - The Human Camera

2010-02-15T23:07:00.000-08:00

The Lord works in mysterious ways. Take Stephen Wiltshire for instance.

As a child Stephen was mute, and did not relate to other human beings. Aged three, he was diagnosed with autism (the neural disorder famously portrayed by Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man). He had no language skills and lived entirely in his own world, cut off from all normal social interaction.

Yet today, at 35, Stephen Wiltshire of London, is a popular artist with his own art gallery, personal website, a Wikipedia profile and a growing body of world-renown work. So much so, his unparalleled art is lauded as the work of a beautiful mind. Just what is so special about him?

Stephen Wiltshire is a human camera. He is not only blessed with a photographic memory, but also has the uncanny artistic ability to sketch giant panoramas of cityscapes - down to intricate details - after seeing them just once via a short helicopter ride !!!

Here are a few amazing videos of Stephen drawing Tokyo, Rome and his most recent opus, a 20 ft canvas of Manhattan.

Now here's a fresh idea... DriveTime

2010-02-15T21:25:00.000-08:00

If my blog has a theme, it's... ideas, passion and passion for ideas.
On that note, here's a fresh, original one.

DriveTime - Ravi Jain's videoblog about encounters with people in his car (aka Studio A) on his commute to work in Boston, USA. What began as random chance encounters gradually grew (through his blog) to people calling in and asking to be interviewed. Over time, he moved on to chatting with celebs and interesting sorts.

I first caught a glimpse of this ingenious idea on a re-run of Beyond Tomorrow - a science and technology television show from "Down Under". In Nov 2005, Episode Six, (above) Ravi interviewed Kim Watkins - the TV host who travelled all the way from Oz to Bos to cover DriveTime on her show.

Cabbies, please take note (and some inspiration). There's a lot you can do with a webcam, a car and a steady stream of everyday people. But you must be willing to spend hours on film editing & compression for web. Luckily, Ravi had the support of his part-time co-blogger and full-time wife, Sonia.

Over 3 years, DriveTime garnered a steady base of viewers from all over the world. Judging by the positive comments to his posts, Ravi's idea seems to have caught on and gained a fair bit of popularity.

Can't help wondering, at a time when videoblogging has gone mainstream, where & why has this pioneer V-blogger vanished? I sure hope a Hollywood producer has spotted Ravi and is making a movie called...
DriveTime - coming soon to a traffic jam near you!

Another big & brilliant idea from VW

2010-02-15T19:57:00.000-08:00

The Fun Theory is an idea arising out of a beautiful thought:
Something as simple as fun is the easiest way to change people's behaviour for the better.

WOW is all I can say in awe of this brilliant initiative from Volkswagen.
To see other clever ideas, visit the website TheFunTheory.com

Ever met a Zombie Client... straight outta Hell?

2010-01-28T19:30:00.000-08:00

Clients come in all shapes and sizes. There are the cool, collected, smart tech-savvy sorts. And then there are 'Zombies' - the diabolically demanding, clinically clingy, painfully possessive and awfully anal sorts.

Ask anyone who's ever dealt with clients esp. in the creative field and they'll speak of nightmarish ordeals with zombies crazed about typeface, obsessed over logo size, possessed with ridiculous ideas, fixated on one or a choice of colours...

Check out these horror stories from around the world:

"Here is some hair I cut off of my poodle. Make my fabric match my poodle."

"Your hourly rate is okay, as long as you don’t need more than an hour. And you can show me how you did it so I can do it on my own next time."

"I don't care if it loses 90% of visitors, we cant have a skip on the website intro, we paid a lot of money for that and everybody has to see it."

"I need to get moving on this. I'm sure you can do some work on your vacation. That’s a long vacation, I bet you’ll get bored anyway, and this is back-and-forth via email, not phone, so it shouldn’t cause you any stress..."

"I like how the poster looks, the illustration, the font, everything, but….can you do it again but better?"

Client: “I have a great idea, and I’d like to bring you on board as a partner.
Me: “Go on..”
Client: “It’s great. I want to recreate Google, but make it better.
Me: “How?
Client: “Well that’s where your expertise comes in.”

"Can you show Joanne [client’s secretary] how you designed our business cards. I don’t want to pay you for doing them."

Click here to visit the official "Clients from Hell" network on tumblr.

Maybe you too can share your Zombie story and relieve your pain.

Mr. Madness would like to thank Jainesh Patel (veteran Zombie survivor) for this post.

Found this inspiring. Hope it helps you too.

2010-01-25T21:03:00.000-08:00

62 WAYS TO MAKE 2010 YOUR BEST YEAR YET...
written by Robin Sharma, January 3, 2010.

1. Remember that leadership isn't about your position. It's about your influence.

2. Get fit like a pro athlete.

3. Lift people up versus tearing people down.

4. Protect your good name. An impeccable reputation takes a lifetime to build. And 60 seconds to lose.

5. Surround yourself with positive, ethical people who are committed to excellence.

6. Remember that even a 1% daily innovation rate amounts to at least a 100% rate of innovation in 100 days.

7. Believe in your dreams (even when others laugh at them).

8. Measure your success, not by your net worth but by your self worth (and how happy you feel).

9. Take an intelligent risk every 24 hours. No Try-No Win.

10. Read "Buffett: The Making of an American Capitalist".

11. Watch "Man on Wire".

12. Regardless of your title at work, be a team builder.

13. Remember that business is all about relationships and human connections.

14. Say "please" more.

15. Say "thank you" more.

16. Know your Big 5: the five things that need to happen by the end of this year for you to feel its been your best year yet.

17. Read your Big 5 every morning while the rest of the world is asleep.

18. Read "As You Think". At least twice this year.

19. Be willing to fail. It's the price of greatness.

20. Focus less on making money and more on creating value.

21. Spend less, save more.

22. Leave everything you touch better than you found it.

23. Be the most positive person in every room you're in.

24. Run your own race.

24. Stay true to your deepest values and best ideals.

25. Write a handwritten thank you note to a customer/friend/loved one every day.

26. When you travel, send love letters to your kids on hotel stationary. In time, they'll have a rich collection to remember your travels by.

27. Read "Atlas Shrugged".

28. Be a problem solver versus a trouble maker.

29. Rather than doing many things at mediocrity do just a few things-but at mastery.

30. Honor your parents.

31. Commit to doing great work-whether anyone notices it or not. It's one of life's best sources of happiness.

32. Give more than you receive (another of the truths of happiness).

33. Have your 1/3/5/10/25 years goals recorded on paper and review them weekly.

34. Be patient. Slow and steady wins the race. The only reason businesses that went from zero to a billion in a year or two get featured in magazines is because 99% of businesses require a lot more time to win.

34. Underpromise and then overdeliver.

35. See part of your job as "a developer of people" (whether you work in the boardroom or the mailroom).

36. Wear your heart on your sleeve. When people see you're real, they'll fall in love with you.

37. Be authentic versus plastic.

38. Read "The Alchemist".

39. Remember that life wants you to win. So get out of your own way.

40. Consider that behind every fear lives your next level of growth (and power).

41. Eat less food.

42. Drink more water.

43. Rest when you need to.

44. Read "SUCCESS" magazine.

45. Write your eulogy and then live your life backwards.

46. Demand the best from yourself.

47. Remember that the more you go to your limits, the more your limits will expand.

48. See everything that happens to you as an opportunity to grow (and therefore, as a precious gift).

49. Be obsessed with learning and self-development.

50. Become comfortable alone (you are the only person you get to be with your whole life).

51. Smile. It's a stunningly effective way to win in business and life.

52. Reflect on the shortness of life.

53. Be bold when it comes to your dreams but gentle with those you love.

54. Remember that success is dangerous because it can kill drive/innovation/passion and going the extra mile. Be successful yet stay hungry.

55. Read "The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin".

56. Be of deep value to this world.

57. Own beautiful things but don't let them own you.

58. Use excellent words.

59. Laugh more.

60. Don't complain, gossip or be negative.

61. Plan as if you'll live forever but live as if you'll die tomorrow.

62. Feel free to pass these lessons on to those you want to help.

The HERO... a must-see short film.

2010-01-21T14:15:00.000-08:00

The HERO... a must-see short film. It's won 4 Golden Globes this year and is sure to win big at the 2010 Oscars.

Just btw... guess who's starring in it? Click here to view the film.

To give credit where credit is due, I laud DraftFCB, Stockholm for this brilliant promo and thank my good mate, Captain Zubin (no... he's not an imaginary friend) for sending it to me.

2010 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule & Groups

2010-01-18T21:41:00.000-08:00

Double-click on image to view / download hi-res version.

For more match info, team photos & player bios, click here.

SONY make.believe... Love at first frame

2010-01-17T19:21:00.000-08:00

Something instantly likeable about SONY's latest TVC. Got me right from the start. A fine fusion of film-tech and story-telling. Quite love how the audio builds tempo. In short, a classic creative... from the get go.

A college friend makes his Bollywood debut

2010-01-10T19:37:00.000-08:00

It's not everyday that a college buddy of yours makes a full length feature film. What's rarer still is one fine day, out of the hazy blue, a preview pops into your Inbox with his name leading the credits and a release date on it:

Chandan Arora is the Producer/ Director of "Striker" and he's roped in some top Bollywood talent. Hope his opening break strikes the sweet spot at the box office.

Oye Chandan... take it away mate. Hats off and very well done.
Wish you and your unit a 'boric powder' smooth & successful 2010.

I declare 2010 open. Let the madness begin...

2010-01-07T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hello all... Happy New 2010.
Let's begin the new decade with a bit of a chuckle.

Now we all know why Xmas is called the silly season. But some goofy goons take that too seriously. Here's a case of epic stupidity I spotted:

"Avoiding police is easier if you don't fall asleep on the horn of a stolen car at 1am and wake up an entire street.

But that is exactly what one burglar did on Boxing Day, making him a late contender for the "stupidest crim of the decade" awards. The man was arrested after residents on Whitney St, Blockhouse Bay, were woken by the sound of a horn blasting from a Pajero 4WD.

"I heard all this noise," said one man. "This guy looked stoned out of his mind and he was asleep on the horn. He woke the entire neighbourhood and seemed too spaced out to know what was going on."

And if you thought that's a gone case, check out this global gonzo:

An underwear bomber from Nigeria,
Passed all airport security criteria,
But his evil plans were no big deal,
Guess what he got for in-flight meal?
A sauteed sausage & terminal diarrhoea.

Copenhagen... we have a problem

2009-12-29T20:30:00.000-08:00

World... watch out!
The delicate ecological balance of our planet is under threat once again.

In the past, cows that farted & belched a lot almost triggered off a greenhouse gas crisis with their deadly methane emissions.

Now, the world is on the brink of another potential catastrophe - rising water levels - caused by turtles farting without a care in the world.

An aquarium recently had to lower the water level in the tanks after gas emissions from turtles set off overflow alarms in the UK. Apparently, the turtles were on a diet of sprouts and beans!

I urge world powers in Copenhagen to treat the above as a serious matter and not just another blogger emission.

And that rounds off my blog for 2009 - a stonkingly stinky fart of a year.

Here's hoping 2010 is a ripping blast... albeit of an entirely different sort.

Bish! Bam! Boom!

AVATAR... a game-changer indeed

2009-12-20T19:57:00.000-08:00

Saw Avatar in Digital 3D on Friday. What a movie! What an experience!
A spell-binding visual treat, I'd call it a must-watch this Xmas.

Been a very long time since a movie created such excitement and anticipation within me. Actually pre-booked our tickets a week in advance. (Could call it the Cameron effect.)

Avatar is James Cameron's magnum opus. He spent 12 years making it. Could hardly wait to see how the animated Na'vi and the entirely CG-ed planet Pandora looked on big screen in 3D.

And all those sneak previews & reviews and blog posts were all screaming 'Go Go Go watch it'. Watch it I had to. Now that I have, here's what I think:

While the storyline is as straight (and uncomplicated) as a Na'vi arrow, it's the visual joy of Avatar that beholds you right through its 3 hour duration.

The exquisitely detailed forest (the humungous Home tree, the Sacred tree of Eywa, the enchanting flora, dense bushes and leaves)
The meticulously created characters (the Na'vi tribe, the Avatars and all the wild creatures... wonderfully described in the Pandorapedia) and
The beautifully crafted scenes (the dragon birds (ikran) in flight, the fight sequences, the glorious floating hallejuhah mountains)...

are sheer eye-candy and a treat to watch in digital 3D.

Much praise for Peter Jackson & Richard Taylor's teams at Weta Digital. The CGI is incredibly seamless. Like never before, the animated characters blend in so smoothly, one can hardly tell they're computer-created. Also, since the Na'vi are not too unlike humans, it's not difficult for viewers to identify with and feel for them.

Once again, James Cameron has succeeded in the art of story-telling. He has masterfully spun a fantasy out of his head and put it out there. Right from the first reel of Avatar, you feel like you're transported to a whole new world. I'm talking complete yet credible suspension of disbelief. And that's the beauty of a simple story well told.

In the final analysis, Avatar (3D) is a game-changer. It's the best thing that's happened in ages for 3D cinema, for good, clean family entertainment, and of course for Weta Digital & James Cameron - the man himself... who has just spawned a new empire of games, toys, memorabilia and lots more to follow.

Bring on the sequel, but first, I'll be seeing Avatar again... can't pay the movie a bigger compliment than that.

Go Tiger... go get 'em!

2009-12-16T22:21:00.000-08:00

Tiger Woods has taken a hiatus from golf. But he leaves us a legacy of mirth and merriment. And for that, I salute him and crack a few:

Can you really blame Tiger for what happened? From a very young age, every time he got his rod out in public, people cheered.

Not just that, they’d get him to autograph their balls and would even touch his rod. And whenever he’d hole one, they'd clap and egg him on to another hole. So then, who’s really to blame?

Just so you know, I don’t blame Tiger for what he did. I blame the guys at Nike. They kept going Just do it. Just do it. So he did it. And did it.

Uh-oh… we have to interrupt blogcast for a live update. Word's just in... Tiger Woods’ WTS (Women Tiger Shafted) tally has gone up to 15 birdies! Little wonder then, he's been named Athlete of the Decade. Sorry about that blogoitus interruptus. Back to where we were…

Just the other day, we asked his Coach what went wrong with Tiger. He had this to say ‘Tiger is a very driven player. He tried to get a birdie aka hole-in-one every time he played. Every morning, Tiger would wake up at 5am to work on his drive. Now we know he was working on his sex drive!’

We also know Tiger’s wife bludgeoned his SUV with a golfing iron. His fans are thanking the heavens he's not a baseball player.

Apparently, Steve Williams, Tiger’s caddy for 10 years, has recently been competing in saloon car racing. Good call, Stevo.

Why did Tiger do waitresses and porn stars? Well… they must've been good. After all, he uses Gillette - the best a man can get.

Speaking of which, did you hear about the blockbluster the Chinese are making on Tiger Woods: Crouching Tiger Hidden Pussy.

Actually, the media should’ve seen the whole thing coming. It’s all there in his name. Tiger… tigers like to hunt. Woods… the perfect setting for hunting. Put the two together and... go Tiger, go get 'em!

Got any fresh Tiger Woods jokes? Send them in and I’ll add them here.

Photo-Crashing... the next big fun fad

2009-12-14T20:27:00.000-08:00

Could this legendary News-Crasher have sparked off a new fun fad?

Anyway, this one's called Photo-Crashing and here's how it's done...

A picture is worth a 1000 licky-licks

2009-12-14T17:15:00.000-08:00

Drooly yummylickylicious = summerspeak for quite a mouthful.

Can't get enough of these shots. More please... one for each flavour.

Best advtg artwork I've seen in a while, be it in a Kapiti or cone.

Awesome ad campaign by Colenso BBDO, Auckland.

It's that time of the year again...

2009-12-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

Compliments of the Season. Enjoy your holidays.

Have a Joyous, Prosperous & Marvelous Twenty Ten.

What's the weirdest video you saw in 2009?

2009-12-13T14:24:00.000-08:00

Hardcore researchers will research anything they can get their hands on. But this is frickin' bats. Fruit Bat Fellatio is the weirdest vid I saw in 09.

WARNING: This video is sexually explicit and was edited & soundtracked (!!!) by the researchers.

Female short-nosed fruit bats have been observed performing fellatio on their partners during copulation. Mating pairs spent more time copulating if the female did so.

Cynopterus sphinx live in south-east Asia. The males often roost with small groups of females.

The bats copulate dorso-ventrally, with the male mounting the female from behind. During mating, the females reached over to lick the base of the male's penis in 14 of the 20 pairs that copulated.

The tip of the penis had already penetrated the female's vagina, and the males did not withdraw when the female licked the base of the penis.

Both the duration of an individual copulation, and the overall time a mating pair spent copulating, were increased if the female performed fellatio.

Talking about weird, this 1995 video of Susan Boyle (that went viral in 09) is right up there too...

So what's the weirdest stuff you saw in 2009?

AVATAR... the trilogy

2009-12-13T14:03:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time on the distant moon Pandora, some very weird creatures began to appear. On closer examination, it was just me.

All Whites are kicking arse on grass

2009-12-10T21:01:00.000-08:00

A new high for footy in NZ.

The New Zealand All Whites have not only qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2010 in SA by beating Bahrain 1-0 in the play-offs...

...they even held reigning World Champions Italy to a draw in the qualifier held for forming the final 8 Groups playing the FIFA tournament.

Winter - U2... another piece of audio magic

2009-12-08T21:39:00.000-08:00

Love Bono's smooth vocals?

Click here to check out Winter by U2.

This 90 second clip is from the OST of the Jim Sheridan movie 'Brothers'. Dunno much about the movie, but the track is master class.

Aus-some break. Awesome views in Qld, Aus.

2009-12-07T15:40:00.000-08:00

Just spent 3 weeks in Australia. Landed in "Brisbeen" - capital of the sunshine state of Queensland. Drove down to the Gold Coast for a week, and then up to the Sunshine Coast for another. Took a dip at some of the best beaches I ever got sand between my cheeks on.

Every place we visited in Aus had awesome views to offer. Sure enough, we took heaps of touristy pics. Will upload them all on my Facebook soon.

Here I am getting all posey with it by the sea-front... with the ocean-kissed town of Mooloolaba behind me.

When I say every place in Aus has a view to offer, I mean every place!

Nike Air for Women - just toot it

2009-12-06T21:23:00.000-08:00

What the Thais really mean is the shoes feel like you're walking on air.

So Ladies, slip 'em on and toot away... these boots are made for fartin'

All I know is I know nothing - Socrates

2009-11-09T15:01:00.000-08:00

A series of mind-boggling factoids coming at you @ the speed of thought. A treat for trivia buffs and conversation fuel for all those occasions when you must come across as ooh-aah well-informed and worldly-wise.

Mr. Madness would like to thank Divyesh Patel for this post.

How to lose weight in 40 days

2009-11-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

The God-awful Gabriel Method... the quickest way to lose weight.

They take your family, your money & your home by force and go:

"If you want any of that back, RUN... and don't stop for 40 days."

The God-awful Gabriel. Never fails. Always works.

Call today to get your family kidnapped - kids under 3 go free !!!

Shit happenstance = moment of frickin' truth

2009-10-27T13:45:00.000-07:00

Private Randy Cockburn performs a dromedary drill

A picture is worth a 1000 turds

Powerful heat wave expected to hit nether regions of the country

Ouie Fontaine a la French Riviera

Forget Bird Flu. Beware of Bird Poo.

The Starship Enterprise No.9 boldly goes where no man has been

Hello... may I speak to myself?

Spot the Crown Jewels in the picture

C'mon Ref... that's gotta be a RED card.

Good Evening, the Headlines... IT WASN'T ME.

Mr. Madness would like to thank Zubin Singh for this post.

Yoga Workout or Binge Blackout. Do one daily.

2009-10-20T22:17:00.000-07:00

Shavasana
Position of total relaxation.

Balasana

Position that brings the sensation of peace and calm.

Setu Bandha Sarvangasana
This position calms the brain and heals tired legs.

Marjayasana
Position stimulates the midsection and the spinal column.

Halasana
Provides excellent relief for back pain and insomnia.

Dolphin Pose
Excellent for the shoulder area, thorax, legs and arms.

Salambhasana
Great exercise to stimulate the lumbar area, legs and arms.

Ananda Balasana
This position is great for massaging the hip area.

Malasana
This position, for ankles and back muscles.

Vomitasana
This position helps get rid of 'excess alcohol' instantly.

Mr. Madness would like to thank Sunny Nirula for this post.

Happy Diwali with Peace & Prosperity

2009-10-14T23:06:00.000-07:00

Wishing a Happy Diwali to you and your family.

Hope you have a prosperous & peaceful 2010.

Best Wishes & Kind Regards,

Amar Trivedi

{Eco-tip: Save energy. Light an oil lamp.}

Fake Zebra. Original Idea.

2009-10-13T23:21:00.000-07:00

A zoo in Gaza has used hair dye, masking tape and a paint brush to transform two donkeys into zebras.

Facing Israeli restrictions on the import of animals, zoo owner Mohammed Bargouthi decided instead to paint the white female donkey, delighting Palestinian children.

Bargouthi told Reuters that painting the animals was much cheaper than paying $40,000 to smuggle real zebras through tunnels into Gaza City.

This ad is more than an ad

2009-10-13T21:58:00.000-07:00

This month is for b(.)(.)bs

2009-10-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Take Action.

I'm sorry Mr. Trump... you're WIRED

2009-10-11T14:01:00.000-07:00

Cool Appsgreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info