Analysis:

Visual metaphors are some of my favorite ways to stand out and use humor-based positioning to reframe competition. By placing high-tech razors in a police lineup and labeling them “guilty of charging too much,” the ad uses our narrative bias (we naturally love a good story with a villain), expensive razors = villain, and hero = Dollar Shave Club. The layout is clean, cinematic, and memorable because it is in no way “typical”, helping the ad stand out and showcase a value prop. It's not just clever, but it’s clear and strategic satire.

How you can apply it:

1. Use a metaphor to dramatize your value prop and turn features into stories or scenes.

2. Position your competitors as the problem, not just as “alternatives.”

3. Lean into humor or wittiness to stand out.

4. Make your visuals do the heavy lifting.

5. Always close with your benefit (here: affordability), clearly and confidently.

Prompt:

Create an ultra-realistic static ad image titled “The Razor Lineup” for Dollar Shave Club. The ad should show a police mugshot lineup with four razors lined up side by side in front of a height chart wall, like criminal suspects. Each razor has exaggerated, ridiculous features:

Razor 1: Has 8 blades, bulky and overdesigned

Razor 2: Has a vibrating motor and LED lights

Razor 3: Has a USB charging port and digital display

Razor 4 (furthest right): A simple, sleek Dollar Shave Club razor, clean and minimal

Lighting is dramatic and gritty, like a real crime scene lineup. Each razor should have a small number card under it like suspects do. Add the caption in white bold text at the bottom: “Guilty of charging too much for a shave.” The Dollar Shave Club razor should look innocent, minimal, and logical, visually contrasting the overhyped ones. Place the Dollar Shave Club logo in the bottom right corner. Aspect ratio: 4:5