Analyzing Subway’s Chess-Themed Ad with Viswanathan Anand
At Sunnyday Consulting, we have a shared passion for all things delicious and creative. And Subway has always rescued us from those 5 o’clock hunger pangs when it is too late for lunch but too early for dinner also.
It’s safe to say that our team has a diverse set of taste buds, and when it comes to Subway subs, we each have our favorites. From the classic Italian B.M.T. to the veggie-packed Veggie Delite®, our taste preferences make ordering a delightful adventure in itself.
So, when Subway dropped a new ad we were excited to see what new combination they are offering up. So here’s our take on Subway’s latest advertisement, featuring none other than the brilliant chess legend, Viswanathan Anand.
But before we dive into the analysis, let’s make one thing clear: we absolutely adore Anand!
He’s an inspiration to many, not just on the chessboard but also in life.
So, what’s our verdict on this intriguing ad? After all, we didn’t like Upgrad’s use of Sundar Pichai’s likeness. Let’s find out together!
A Flavorful Blend or a Recipe for Disaster?
When Subway released its newest ad, we were all ears (and taste buds). The thought of seeing Viswanathan Anand, a true icon in the chess world, on screen was thrilling. However, as the ad unfolded, we couldn’t help but feel a slight “ick” factor creeping in. Why, you ask? Let’s break it down.
Subway’s Strategic Move: Chess Meets Subs
Subway’s marketing team, undeniably clever, attempted a unique approach by fusing the strategic game of chess with the art of crafting a perfect sandwich.
The concept was intriguing, no doubt.
But here’s where the divide begins.
Sweat and Food – A Surprising Combo
As much as we love Anand, seeing him sweating it out while contemplating a sandwich order raised eyebrows (and our heart rates).
Sure, chess is intense, and the same goes for making decisions at Subway, but combining sweat and food isn’t a match made in culinary heaven.
Like do the air conditioners at Subway not work, was our question!?
The Relatability Factor – Missing a Critical Move
As we pondered the ad’s premise, we couldn’t help but feel a bit disconnected.
Chess is all about strategic brilliance and calculated moves. Ordering a Subway sandwich, however, is more about personal preferences and taste. (We don’t think anyone is going to use the Queen’s Gambit or the Scandinavian Defence when planning their sandwich!)
While we can empathize with the overwhelming choices at Subway, we didn’t quite feel that chess and subs could harmoniously blend in the context of a commercial.
Viswanathan Anand’s Charisma Shines – A Winning Move
Now, let’s talk about the highlight – Viswanathan Anand himself.
His charisma and intelligence are magnetic, and it’s always a delight to see him grace the screen.
But we can’t help but wonder: could the script have showcased Anand’s brilliance without the exaggerated sweat and stress?
The Sunnyday Consulting Twist – A Recipe for a Memorable Ad
We’ve been loyal Subway customers for years. (read more about how to inspire brand loyalty here.)
The plethora of choices can indeed be overwhelming, but we view it as an opportunity to curate our own culinary masterpieces.
So how could this ad have been more relatable to us?
Tapping into Anand’s Genius – Crafting the Perfect Ad
Imagine if Subway’s ad took a different approach – one that truly celebrated Viswanathan Anand’s strategic brilliance and connected it seamlessly with the process of ordering a Subway sandwich.
Picture this: the ad opens with a captivating scene, where Anand, with a confident smile, stands in front of a Subway counter, ready to embark on a culinary chess match.
A Strategic Feast Unfolds
In this revamped ad, the focus shifts from sweat-inducing queries to a captivating display of Anand’s tactical genius.
As he begins to order, the chessboard appears before him, and with each move he makes, a delightful Subway ingredient falls into place, just like a well-coordinated chess strategy.
Our Take on Mastering the Combinations: Anand’s Signature Moves
Rather than overwhelming viewers with the plethora of choices, the ad zooms in on eight well-loved Subway combinations. Each combination represents a brilliant strategic move on the chessboard, perfectly aligned with Anand’s character and playing style.
1. The “Queen’s Gambit” – Chilli Cheese Sensation
Anand’s vegetarian approach shines as he confidently selects the Chilli Cheese Sensation, much like a player initiating a well-known chess opening like the Queen’s Gambit. Just like the queen on the chessboard, this sandwich reigns supreme with its spicy kick and cheesy goodness.
2. “The Grandmaster’s Checkmate” – Paneer Achari
Anand’s boldness is mirrored by his choice of the Paneer Achari, reminiscent of a decisive checkmate move on the chessboard. This delectable combination of succulent paneer and tangy achari sauce leaves your taste buds captivated, just like a grandmaster’s move leaves the opponent in awe.
3. “The Sicilian Defense” – Crunchy Mexican
Anand’s mastery over the Sicilian Defense is matched by his selection of the Crunchy Mexican – a strategic counter to his opponent’s moves. This delightful sub, with its crunchy veggies and zesty Mexican sauce, offers a formidable defense against any hunger pangs.
4. “The Double Attack” – Italian Pesto
Just as Anand employs the Double Attack tactic on the chessboard, he combines Roast Beef and Turkey to create a flavorful duo of taste with the Italian Pesto sub. The mouthwatering taste of pesto sauce in perfect harmony with tender meats delivers a double delight to the palate.
5. “The Castling Maneuver” – Chicken Tikka Achari
Anand’s preference for strategic maneuvering translates into his choice of the Chicken Tikka Achari, a combination that skillfully balances flavors. This sub showcases the rich flavors of tender chicken tikka complemented by the tangy twist of achari sauce – a move your taste buds won’t forget.
6. “The Pawn Promotion” – Spicy Chick’N Cheese
Anand’s tenacity reflects in the choice of Spicy Chick’N Cheese – a humble yet triumphant combination, just like a pawn promotion to a queen. This spicy chicken sub, topped with creamy cheese, elevates the game of flavors with each satisfying bite.
7. “The Nimzo-Indian Defense” – Great American BBQ
Anand’s mastery of the Nimzo-Indian Defense finds a culinary match in the bold flavors of the Great American BBQ sub. Much like the strategic defense, this hearty sandwich features smoky BBQ sauce that keeps you coming back for more, time and again.
8. “The Smothered Mate” – Pepper Chicken Supreme
And finally, the ad culminates with Anand’s strategic coup – the Pepper Chicken Supreme – akin to executing a smothered mate, leaving a lasting impression. This tantalizing combination of succulent pepper chicken and delectable toppings ensures a winning finale to the culinary chess match.
Checkmate: An Unbeatable Feast
As the ad unfolds, viewers witness the brilliance of Anand’s chess moves gracefully intertwined with the art of crafting Subway subs.
Each Subway sandwich embodies Anand’s strategic prowess, making the ordering process both exciting and delicious.
With no sweat or stress, the ad captures the essence of Anand’s genius, guiding Subway customers through the exploration of these eight iconic combinations.
This imaginative approach would undoubtedly strike a more relatable chord with both chess enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Checkmate or a Missed Move?
Tapping into Viswanathan Anand’s genius and intertwining it with Subway’s offerings could have created an unbeatable combination. The ad would celebrate Anand’s iconic chess moves while simplifying the process of ordering a Subway sandwich.
At Sunnyday Consulting, we firmly believe that this approach would have left a lasting impact on viewers, inspiring them to experience the thrill of crafting their own signature subs with the finesse of a true chess grandmaster.
So, let’s toast to Anand’s brilliance and the creative possibilities that await us in the world of ads and chess-inspired sandwiches!
Bon appétit and happy chess playing!
Have a different opinion? Let us know in the comments.
