Philips launches online comedy series

Consumer electronics manufacturer Philips has today launched an online comedy series to promote its new range of products.

Titled Nigel And Victoria, the eight-episode, mock documentary series follows the fledgling romance between product reviewer Victoria and Philips marketing manager Nigel, who keeps interfering in her work.

Ben Willbond (The Thick Of It, Rev) plays Nigel, while Dutch actress Victoria Koblenko (Dead End, American Dreams) is Victoria. The first three-and-a-half minute episode is available now on video sharing site YouTube.

The project began as just eight product reviews for items such as iPad accessories and headphones. However, Philips commissioned online video production company Wenneker TV and comedy outfit Hoot to create a behind-the-scenes narrative to form the basis of the comedy series.

Philips said that the on-set dynamic between Victoria and Nigel "provides an entertaining take on product reviews".

"Today's online savvy consumers expect a brand to do more than simply push its products. Consumers want brands to engage with them in an open and credible way," said Gary Raucher, Philips Consumer Lifestyle vice president of integrated communications.

"They also want brands to make entertaining content that they can discover for themselves and share online. Nigel And Victoria is a great example of this, and we hope the public embrace the show."

Nigel And Victoria follows Philips' Parallel Lines campaign earlier in the year, which featured cutting-edge films being shown on Philips TVs.