In contrast to the London 2012 video, here is a Japanese ad with global appeal.

I visited Japan for a 6-day work trip in October 2006. Marketing in Japan is surreal! Every one hustles to come up with the loudest, most innovative, and most attractive market presence.

Via Japan Marketing News.

Mike Fiorella of JMN notes: “Here’s a corporate image-building ad from Shiseido. Watch the expression on the actress’ face and see if you can: (a) not become completely choked up, and (b) not completely love Shiseido.”

He also draws our attention to the fact that “the ad doesn’t show a single identifiable Shiseido brand. And that it’s 90 seconds long.”

Below is a rough translation of the lyrics, via Mike’s blog:

Today my boyfriend broke up with me…
I guess I knew it wasn’t going to work out.
But, you know, at the time, he did have a faint smile on his face so. . .

And my mother, who used to wipe away my tears at times like this, is gone too. . .

I can forget. I can forget.
And become someone new.
I can forget. I can forget.
I can forget. I think I can.

I can forget. I can forget.
And become someone new.
I can forget. I can forget.
I can forget. I think I can.

Voice over: When you become someone new, a more beautiful tomorrow is certain.
Telop: For a moment. For a lifetime. Beautifully. Shiseido.