One of the drive-in intermission mainstays that doesn’t promote food is this one (below) for Pic mosquito coils. I’ve seen it a million times and it still amuses me, especially at the end when the doomed mosquito says, “Bye!” and drops to the floor, clutching a flower.
As a graphic designer by trade, I always watch for the quick glimpse of the Pic package at the end of the bit.
I’ve often wondered why the current package (below) doesn’t have a cartoon mosquito on it, for a little retro charm. It’s quite beautifully designed, but no fun at all. Even the logo is soulless.
Anyway, I recently discovered something on Ebay that I never thought I’d see: an actual Pic package – just like the one in the drive-in ad! I love the design; it’s simple and effective.
I love the mosquito too. He looks genuinely pissed.
Here’s another vintage Pic package currently on Ebay. It’s probably a little newer than the other one.
The addition of more color enhances it a bit. And unlike today’s modern package, this one is fun to look at. One mosquito has a bent stinger, and the others have packed their bags and are hitting the road.
