The Iraqi journalist who was jailed after nearly pegging President George W. Bush with his shoes in December will be freed next month. The three-month early release of international hero Muntader al-Zaidi is “a victory for the free and honorable Iraqi media,” according to the shoe throwing journalist’s lawyer. |NYP|
He might be considered one of the most unpopular presidents in world history, but George W. Bush’s image can still move artwork, especially when it’s of him nearly getting pegged in the head with a shoe by Iraqi journalist Muntader al-Zaidi. This oil painting depicting the infamous shoe tossing incident recently sold on eBay for $321.42 after 26 bids.
While most of the world was jubilantly cheering the inauguration of the 44th president of the United States others, like this radical group of Canadians were protesting the president—not Barack Obama mind you, but the outgoing disgrace George W. Bush. To show their support for quick thinking, infamous footwear tosser Muntadar al-Zeizi and disdain for W, a group of protesters threw their shoes at a poster of what could be the world’s most hated president. More photos can be seen here.
|Photo: Anirudh Koul|
Ebay Makes Big Impact On Shoestring Budget
Since it’s listed as posted by Belgium’s Proximity BBDO (BBDO is ebay’s agency of record), this :20 video is probably real. And definitely real funny. It’s the best use of current events in advertising I’ve seen in quite awhile. And it’s the best Holiday ad I’ve seen this season, because it gets right to the heart of the true meaning of Christmas—people at gatherings getting shit they don’t want/need tossed to (or at) them. It’s also a wonderful example of what makes a great spot: a great idea, not a million dollar production budget. Just Imagine how much Bush could get for those shoes…he could put the money towards the auto bailout plan…or donate it to needy women’s organizations (ha)…or set it aside for the reconstruction of Iraq (nah).
|Video: Illegal Advertising|
International hero and shoe tossing Iraqi journalist, Muntader al-Zaidi, has spawned quite a following. After throwing both his shoes at President Bush during a recent press conference—the ultimate sign of disrespect in the Arab culture—he’s become a cause celebre with activists and politicians demanding his release. Prominent Arab-American journalist and comedian Ray Hanania is supporting the young man’s action by encouraging people to mail their shoes directly to President Bush. Although he does suggest you write “Shoe Protest” so as not to totally freak out the Secret Service.
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