Mad Men Mania

AMC’s third season of the colossal success that is Mad Men returns this Sunday at 10pm.

In case you’ve just emerged from decades in your fallout shelter (in which case this series will make you feel right at home), you're probably well aware of Mad Men’s acclaim, including Emmy and Golden Globe nods, not to mention its influence on fashion and all around cool culture (one word: hats).

Before times of sensitivity training and political correctness, it gives us a refreshing view of “bad” behavior in the workplace that is somehow still…refined. When throwing back a scotch at the office was commonplace, and the idea of casual Fridays would’ve been absurd. And what is a better backdrop for this “anarchy” but Sterling Cooper, a Madison Ave. advertising agency in the 60’s.

Not only does the series demonstrate mastery from an art direction and writing standpoint, it seems to have some real staying power, leaving audiences wanting more and more inappropriate ad agency drama.

Clever also have been the sponsor's tv spot executions during the show, often leading into commercials with an artcard factoid about whose spot you are about to see.

Art imitating life imitating art.

This seems to be the concept in promoting the 3rd season as well. You can create a ‘60s style Mad Men avatar of yourself or win a walk on role in conjunction with Banana Republic.

But like the storylines, the new season doesn’t come without industry drama. About what else, but...advertising.

To sell more advertising space and make up for lack of revenue, AMC has shortened the length of each episode by 2 minutes of actual programming. However, due to this thing called an economic downturn, most advertisers aren’t able or willing to purchase the spots. Thus leaving AMC to sell the space at a premium or form partnerships with the likes of Vanity Fair, Banana Republic, Clorox, Variety.com and BMW, who will be the exclusive sponsor of the Season 3 premiere, providing limited commercial interruptions.

Just another reminder that Mad Men is really about the good ‘ol days of advertising. Will they ever be back?

Make mine a double.