A Look at Commercials from July 1986
A Blast from the Past
Recently, I came across a VHS tape dated July 1986, and it was like stepping into a time machine. The commercials on the tape offer a fascinating glimpse into what people were watching and what products were being advertised over 35 years ago. Let's take a trip down memory lane and see what we find!
1. WBZ Eyewitness Sports Update with Don Shane
The tape starts with a local news segment, the WBZ Eyewitness Sports Update with Don Shane. This short clip reminds us of the importance of local news and sports reporting. Back in 1986, people relied on local channels to stay up-to-date on what was happening in sports.
2. Hyundai Excel - Cars that make sense
Next up is a commercial for the Hyundai Excel, a car that was marketed as being sensible and practical. In 1986, South Korean car manufacturers were just starting to make inroads into the American market, and the Hyundai Excel was one of the first models to achieve widespread success.
3. The Karate Kid Part II - 1986 TV Trailer
The excitement builds as the tape plays a trailer for The Karate Kid Part II, which was released in theaters in June 1986. This movie sequel was highly anticipated by fans of the original film, and the trailer does a great job of building suspense and excitement.
4. Coors Light - "Who's going to be at the Silver Bullet tonight?"
We then get a taste of 1980s nightlife with a commercial for Coors Light beer. The commercial features a catchy jingle and asks the question, "Who's going to be at the Silver Bullet tonight?" This commercial takes us back to a time when going to the bar with friends was a popular way to spend an evening.
5. Old Milwaukee Beer - Mexican Food on Olvera Street, Los Angeles and Old Milwaukee Beer - It doesn't get any better than this
Old Milwaukee Beer is featured next with a single commercial that showcases the beer's association with good times and relaxation. The commercial depicts people enjoying Mexican food on Olvera Street in Los Angeles and incorporates the tagline 'It doesn't get any better than this.' This advertisement paints a picture of a simpler time when people cherished the company of friends along with good food and drinks.
6. WBZ Supporting Jazz in 1986 - With John Henning - "You gotta have Arts"
The tape then takes a turn for the artistic with a public service announcement from WBZ supporting jazz in 1986. The PSA features John Henning and the message "You gotta have Arts." This PSA highlights the importance of supporting the arts and culture in our communities.
7. Cocaine. The Big Lie - PSA from MLB featuring Mike Schmidt
The mood turns serious with the final commercial on the tape, a public service announcement about the dangers of cocaine. This PSA features Major League Baseball star Mike Schmidt and the message "Cocaine. The Big Lie." This commercial is a reminder of the serious drug problem that the United States was facing in the 1980s.
A Look Back at a Different Time
Watching these commercials from July 1986 is a reminder of how much has changed over the past 35 years. The styles, the products, and even the way news and entertainment are delivered have all been transformed. However, some things remain the same: the desire to be entertained, the importance of local news, and the need to combat social problems like drug abuse. This VHS tape is a valuable piece of history that provides a window into a bygone era.