Rube Goldberg and Honda Accord

Last week we saw a great Japanese commercial of a "xylophone" in a forest, and read that it took 4 days to setup and get a successful take for the video.

That might seem complicated, but perhaps nothing will ever match the Honda Accord commercial.  It is called "Cog".  The team created a Rube Goldberg-type machine using actual parts from an Accord (actually, two).  In the end, the commercial required over 600 takes over a week to get it right... this after six months of planning, with total budget of $6 million.  It was created in 2003 by London agency Wieden & Kennedy.

No, there is no CGI here either, although the tires rolling uphill make people skeptical.  It *is* possible using clever weighting.  Final voiceover by Garrison Keillor.  However, although it appears that it was one long shote panning with the action, it is two shots linked together.

Honda followed-up with this commercial in 2006, but although neat, just can't compare to "Cog".  In this video, a 60-person choir makes the sound effects for driving a Civic.  Keep it up, Honda.

Comments

[Honda Accord India]

That's just spectacular! I am speechless. As I am a physics student, I think there is kind of physics is used in this commercial like in weight balance. It has inspired me to do some creative in my practicals. Honda Accord really fascinating work, keep it up.

[Frau A]

@Jane: Thanks for the comment. I always enjoyed Physics and hope your studies go well. Cheers, Herr J.