CineVegas Blog

In the last few days the internet has been a buzz over four PSA-style online videos that promote Microsoft’s Internet Explorer 8. Starring Lois and Clark actor Dean Cain, the ads have become instantly infamous for their crude humor and edgy style in the most un-Microsoft way. One in particular was apparently too edgy and pulled because, according to a MS rep, “some of our customers found it offensive.” The director of these spots, comedian-turned-writer/director Bobcat Goldthwait, is a friend of the Festival and was kind enough to talk about them.

How did you come about getting the Microsoft commercial gig?

Fred Savage turned it down. (I’m not kidding.)

Were you surprised that you were asked to direct these? What was your first thought?

Yes. It was like Christmas and my Birthday all rolled up into one.

Did you write the commercials or were you given an outline of sorts?

Brain Harris and Craig Moore at the Bradley and Montgomery advertising firm out of Indiana wrote the spots. After that we would all pitch ideas and collaborate together. It wasn’t any different than how I worked with Jimmy Kimmel or Dave Chappelle.

How many different commercials did you make? Are there still more to come?

Four spots altogether. I’m not aware of anymore being ordered but I did hear that if we do Microsoft requested much more vomit this time.

Speaking of vomit, one commercial in particular, OMGPIP, has just recently been pulled off the net. Did you know about this? Any thoughts?

I was surprised when it was pulled. It seems pretty tame compared to a Comfort Wipe commercial.

What do you think of “viral videos” in general? Have any favorites?

Viral videos are a great distraction from the fact that we are all marching to the grave. With that said I like any video with dogs wearing clothes or that features funny monkeys.

See also:

• MASTER OF THE INTERNET
• THE IMPORTANCE OF THE UNDERGROUND
• THE CONVERSATION: NEW FORMS OF STORYTELLING