It’s Gen-Xers vs. Superman in Battle of the Cards

Advertiser: Visa

Agency: BBDO, New York

Challenge: Continue the “Everywhere you want to be campaign” in a spot aimed at the Gen-X viewers of “Seinfeld,” whose star endorses American Express.

The Ad: Way-too-hip young adults check out the goods at the Attic, a trendy clothing store in Las Vegas. They enjoy themselves immensely, trying on gold boots, feathered hats, leopard print undergarments and toe rings. The commercial ends when a narrator says that “the only thing that’s out of style [at the Attic] is using American Express.”

Comment: Though Visa previously has run ads during “Seinfeld,” its decision to advertise during the conclusion of the 9-year-old sitcom borders on ambush advertising. The spot, with its stereotypical rendition of Gen-Xers as edgy and out-there, is no match for Jerry and sidekick Superman. $