Is Pepsi’s new viral video faked…and does it even matter?

Pepsi isn’t the first brand to attempt to lure huge audiences with the kind of viral video stunt that begs the question: “Was that real or fake?”

The beverage giant’s new video ad features brand ambassador David Beckham performing some exceptionally fancy footwork. If it is a hoax, it follows in the footsteps of such hits as Microsoft’s long-distance water slide (ultimately a fake); Roger Federer’s tennis tricks which pulled in millions of views for Gillette’s (also faked); the Head Shave helmet and the iPhone with the power to control Times Square. The latter two, unsurprisingly both fakes, were the creations of creative agency thinkmodo.

There’s no doubting the viral potential of well-executed fake clips. Whether viewed by believers or sceptics, they are likely to be shared, often resulting in fantastic brand awareness.

But has Pepsi got it right with its latest stunt? The answer, according to Jeremy Scott at www.reelseo.com, is a resounding no. In Scott’s opinion, the YouTube clip is fundamentally flawed. He cites overzealous audio and editing, high quality footage and unbelievable football skills among his criticisms.

If you ask us, it’s the poor acting skills of both Beckham and his over-enthusiastic off-screen onlookers that make this clip implausible. Whether faked or not, however, the video has already pulled in well over one million views in just three days. The majority of YouTube viewers don’t seem to be fooled, but they are definitely watching.