I’m not really in the mood for the upcoming Olympics.  The infusion of steroids, high-priced athletes, and lack of a true rivalry of Soviet proportions have made the Olympic Games just another athletic competition.

 

However, I have enjoyed the VISA Go World campaign. These inspirational ads are wonderfully shot, motivational and really hit to the point of the Olympic spirit.  The spots feature great moments of Olympics past and create a little chill every time you watch them (especially the Derek Redmond spot). Add Morgan Freemans’ narration and you have a winner.

 

I imagine this Olympics will be full of controversy, especially with China as the host nation. With the time difference, the ratings will probably be low. Additionally, with the exception of Michael Phelps and Dara Torres, there isn’t a great athlete/story to get behind. We are way beyond the Dream Team being interesting.


With all this being said VISA attempts to convey true Olympic spirit, and they overwhelmingly succeed. The Olympics are really about that one great moment, that special story, and the unexpected twist. That might be reason enough to watch.

 

 

Judge for yourself: