An Open Letter to Mattel
Tuesday, December 16th, 2008By Glinda
Dear Mattel,
I heard about your recent court victory against the makers of Bratz dolls for copyright infringement. Congratulations!
From what I understand, as early as February 11 of 2009, you will have complete control over the Bratz line. You can legally do whatever you wish with the line of vampy dolls with big lips and even bigger attitudes hated by parents the world over. Because even though Barbie is anatomically incorrect, at least she doesn’t look like she could be carrying a shank.
If you don’t mind, I have what I think is a superior marketing tactic that will blow you away with its genius.
I propose that Mattel hold what I call “Bratz Bonfires.” That’s right. Mattel has a once-in-a-lifetime chance to bond with communities, and more importantly, potential Barbie customers. Every major city can hold their own “Bratz Bonfire” and it can be a night of hot cocoa, popcorn, and watching those little tramps burn.
Every pre-teen can experience the thrill of throwing her Bratz doll into the growing heap, and who doesn’t love participating in a countdown? Especially one that will result in flames! After holding hands and singing campfire songs as the plastic melts, (you may want to provide optional breathing masks) you can give out a free Barbie promotional item. I mean, I don’t even have a daughter, but I would so totally go to something like that.
Of course, this means that the molds of the Bratz must be destroyed, never to sully a Target shelf again. I urge you to resist the temptation to make money, and instead, think of the children.
Sincerely,
Glinda