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Movie review: Art & Copy

Art & Copy gives an interesting history at the look of the world of American advertising from the 1960s through the present day. Directed by Doug Pray, this 90-minute documentary is fresh as the advertisements were when they debuted via print and/or on air with candid interviews with the brains behind the ads.

Some of the most famous advertisements and tag-lines are highlighted such as Nike's "Just Do It," and "I Love NY." Advertiser George Lois steals the show with his colorful language and blunt insight on how the advertising business worked. Even fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger was a highlight among all the creative minds interviewed on what goes on in the industry delivering candid responses.

 Pray's documentary was highly educational as an introduction to how the advertising business worked, however I feel like it was skipping the detailed process of making the advertisement itself. They did go through the steps of "selling" the ad to companies, but it appeared at times the in-between process from selling the idea to the ad appearing publicly was brushed over. Another minor detail that would have been beneficial to cover was a look at other big names in various companies such as a soft drink, chain stores, and so on. It is understandable that not everything can be covered, but a taste of one more company or the broadening of the companies covered could have been even more interesting to add for the benefit of the viewers. 

This documentary is recommended to those interested in the advertising industry or just want to see something different from the norm, which was quite refreshing. This film is not rated, but adult language is used so parental discretion is advised. You may view the official trailer here.

For more information: Please visit the Plaza Theatre's website at http://www.plazaatlanta.com or the film's official website at http://www.artandcopyfilm.com/. This film is playing at the Plaza until Thursday, September 24.