Manulife Philippines scores viral hit with video about young comedian

The ad above marks Manulife's 110th anniversary in the Philippines with a story "loosely based" on the career development of a real-life standup comedian named Victor Anastacio.

It's not very funny, at least at the beginning. But that's sort of the point, as the entertainer hones his material in front of his stoic father. The jokes improve as the video moves along—although only slightly in Ad Nut's opinion. No offense! Humour is highly subjective, and Ad Nut can't argue with the nearly 3.4 million views. For an insurance ad, that's impressive. And after the sad trend of the last few years, it's nice to know that an insurance film doesn't have to be weepy to succeed. 

CREDITS

Creatives:
Dave Ferrer: Chief Creative Officer
Brandie Tan: Exec Creative Director
Javey Villones:Creative Director/Art Director
Boyet Custodio: Assoc Creative Director
Albert Millar: Copywriter
Account Management:
Golda Roldan: Managing Director
Pao Acosta: Client Service Director
Pat Cui: Senior Account Manager
Strategic Planning:
Pam Garcia: Exec Strat Planning Director
Iya Forbes: Strat Planner
Producer:
Jeng Floresca
Production House:
Film Pabrika
Lyle Sacris: Director
Marivic San Juan: Exec Producer
Jing Lopez: Exec Producer
Cheska Ramos: Line Producer
Berhil Cruz - DOP
Debbie Villanueva - Production Designer
Musse Cruz: Colorist
Liza Apuyan: Production Manager
Charmaine Betudio - Caster
Victor Anastacio: Lead Talent
HIT Productions:
Arnold Buena: Composer
Reggie Ambas: Sound Engineer

Ad Nut is a surprisingly literate woodland creature that for unknown reasons has an unhealthy obsession with advertising. Ad Nut gathers ads from all over Asia and the world for your viewing pleasure, because Ad Nut loves you. Check out Ad Nut's Advertising Hall of Fame.