Darrell Lea has called back to the iconic Yellow Pages ‘Not Happy Jan’ ad, in a campaign to relaunch the brand in Australia.
In the new campaign, Deborah Kennedy reprises her starring role as the grumpy boss, but this time she yells down from the window, “No worries Jan”.
This sudden change in attitude is created by the superior taste of Darrell Lea chocolate which ‘Makes it Better’.
This is the first campaign for Darrell Lea created by Akkomplice since it won the creative account earlier this month.
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Kenny Hill, founder and creative director of Akkomplice said they wanted to respect the original ad for the Yellow Pages, but add something new to bring it back into Australians’ minds.
“It was a real thrill to be able to create this work for Darrell Lea. We were at pains to respect the original work but add something to it that would get people talking and bars flying off the shelves,” Hill said.
Darrell Lea explores the story of Jan even further with a 15 second spot which features her engaging in some classic workplace venting with a colleague, accompanied by a block of chocolate.
The new campaign marks the start of the confectionary brand’s return to the Australian market after spending several years recovering from falling into administration in 2012.
Tim Stanford, Darrell Lea’s marketing manager, said the new campaign will put the brand back on the map for Australians.
“This is big, bold and brilliant work from Akkomplice. It puts Darrell Lea back on the map and gives us the best launchpad for going up against established competitors. And this is just the beginning.”
The original ‘Not Happy Jan’ ad was created by Clemenger BBDO Melbourne. It can be seen here:
Credits
Client: Tim Stanford, Marketing Director Darrell Lea
Agency: Akkomplice
Creative: Kenny Hill; Sara Oteri
Producer: Nik Round
Production Company: The Producers
Executive Producer: Noelle Jones
Director: Mitch Kennedy
DoP: Kieran Fowler NZCS ACS
Post Production: Alt.VFX
Audio Production: Bang Bang Studios
Sound Design: Tristan Dewey
Creatives on original ‘Not Happy Jan’ ad: Clemenger BBDO, Melbourne
Tony Greenwood – copywriter
Sarah Barclay – art director
Paul Middleditch – director