DirecTV’s latest ad spoofing popular 80s films features Craig T. Nelson and the late Heather O’Rourke playing their characters in Steven Spielberg’s Poltergeist. For those of you who don’t know, Heather (Carol Anne) O’Rourke died in 1988 during the making of Poltergeist 3 of a stomach condition. She was only 12.
Some insensitive ad agent thought bringing her back to life by using actual film footage, a body double and computer generated imagery would be cool. Not cool. Did they consider how sensitive of an issue this was to “reanimate” a dead child? Sound cute?
It would appear Craig T. Nelson, who played Carol Anne’s father, had no problem with this flash of insensitive creativity. Maybe he needed more money for hair plugs. I blame him as much as DirecTV for stooping so low.
Moviehole.com commented, “I think a fine line has been crossed here… and wouldn’t be surprised if someone ends up in court defending their actions.” I sincerely hope so, and am glad I subscribe to Dish.
– Darrin Stock
Watch the ad below, then discuss it in this dedicated HDR Forum thread.
