How The Built-In Fanbase Can Make For A Big Hit
Television and the movies take us to another place. Whether we're watching our favorite sitcom or crying and cheering at the end of our favorite movie, Hollywood leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.
Taking brands from the screen to real life can captivate fans and become a huge success, whether it is a product, a restaurant or an experience. And a major new revenue stream. In this blog, Hollywood Branded looks at TV and movie brands that have been been made real and how entertainment marketing has helped them become major cash generators.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Company
Now a staple in many cities across the country, the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is a seafood joint inspired by the much-loved classic Forrest Gump.
If you live under a rock and have somehow missed the movie (if you have, go watch it - it's one of the best), the main character opens a shrimp company named after himself and his best friend after returning from Vietnam... aka Bubba Gump Shrimp Company.
The chain restaurant first opened in Monterey, California by Viacom, the owner of Paramount Pictures which released the film. It became a huge hit and spread throughout the United States. For big fans of the movie, it's a must-go. And the merchandise sells even more than the food.
And fun fact: Chris Pratt, star of the new Jurassic Park franchise, was discovered while serving at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company.
Golden Girls Cafe To Open In New York City
The classic favorite sitcom will be coming to life on the streets of New York when Rue's Cafe opens this summer.
Named after Rue McCalahan, the actress who played the witty and hilarious Blanche Devereaux, the cafe will be everything Golden Girls. In addition, they will feature over 40 costumes worn by the actress throughout the show as well as decorations, set pieces and props.
The menu will be themed after the show as well, including recipes created by its stars and dished mentioned in the series, such as "Looks Like Chocolate, Tastes Like Spice, You'll Wish You Had a Bigger Slice Marble Cake."
If the restaurant is anything like the show it will be sassy, delicious and an absolute blast to eat at.
The Anaheim Ducks
Did you know the Anaheim Ducks wouldn't exist without the Walt Disney Company?
Aptly located in Anaheim, California (where Disneyland also makes its home), the Mighty Anaheim Ducks hockey team was founded by the Walt Disney Company in 1993.
The idea for the team came after the wild success of the company's 1992 sports film The Mighty Ducks. Over the years it has changed hands, but found massive success in the NHL, even winning a Stanley Cup in the 2006-2007 season.
The Willy Wonka Candy Company
Inspired by Roald Dahl's beloved novels as well as the two hit Hollywood movies they were made into, the Willy Wonka Candy Company uses the brand's entertainment value to sell candy.
A subsidary of sweets giant Nestle, the candy company and its style and packaging are modeled directly after the books and films, complete with Everlasting Gobstoppers, Wonka Bars and all. In fact, the brand has run several 'golden ticket' sweepstakes just like in the story - and undoubtedly sold a lot of product.
Entertainment Adds Value To A Brand
Seeing a brand from your favorite movie instantly appeals to your memory and makes a consumer feel excited, curious and even trusting toward a brand. After all, if Forrest Gump named it after his best friend, it's gotta be good shrimp right?
Of course, not all brands seen on screen are real. Check out our article about fake brands in television shows.
Before you spend another dollar on traditional advertising, start thinking about ways to make your marketing more engaging to consumers. Watch our video to learn how to combat common advertising challenges marketers face daily!
