Another Titanic tragedy?

Look at this poster for ONE SECOND only and then close your eyes...

OK, now that you've opened them again, STOP looking at the poster. Don't scrutinize the message, the image, the colours or typeface any longer. 'One second' of your time is actually five times longer than you normally give to the 2,500 messages subconsciously received every day. 
So, what do you think of it? Did anything grab your attention long enough to make you look longer? Drop me a quick email, I'd love to know.


Here's the thoughts from the ZiG Zone 
Well, it's Northern (and) Ireland Tourisms' attempt to 'piggyback' the plethora of media coverage surrounding the 100th Anniversary of the sinking of Cunard's prize passenger ship, RMS Titanic. Titanic is probably even more famous today than it was back in 1912. With TV documentary's, radio, national press coverage etc., now is an excellent time to push awareness of the NEW Titanic Museum opening in Belfast in April. 


But I'm not convinced that this poster captures the excitement of the moment.

Unless you know what the dramatic shape of the museum is (not dissimilar to Mann Island near Museum of Liverpool), then I just don't think (in the infamous words of Louis Walsh) that people will 'get it'. 

Not only does the subtle imagery let it down but the headline too. Firstly, it's difficult to read as it's SET IN CAPITAL LETTERS and we don't read words we read shapes. 

Secondly, how uninteresting is the headline? An angular block is landlocked? Mmm, fails to stir me and make me want to 'jump in' and fly over to Ireland. 

Sadly this is a poor execution and a severe waste of clients budget. 

If your marketing is to work, i.e. you see a good return on your spend, then the message and imagery needs to be attention grabbing.

Unfortunately this poster doesn't stand out and British museums can hardly throw money away. The ZiG verdict: Yet another Titanic tragedy. If it's any consolation, I'd love to go to the museum after seeing the video on the museum website.

P.S. How long did it take you to notice the boy looking at the submerged wreck at the bottom? More than 0.2 seconds?