Mercury Ad Campaign Blames Aliens

Mercury Insurance's latest campagin is a bit silly. The ads and website, by MarketPower Group, focus on Dr D.B. Selwick and his research that Mercury Insurance has such low rates because it's run by aliens from Mercury. Playing off a conspiracy theory theme, the site has "evidence" as well as some of the TV commercials.

"A dry list of facts may have sold auto insurance in the past, but not anymore. Today, audiences want to be entertained by advertising," said Erik Thompson, director of advertising. "This campaign gives us the ability to communicate Mercury's core values -- low rates, great service and financial stability -- in such a way that will leave a lasting impression upon consumers while we entertain them."