Not All Fairytales Have Happy Endings: Cartoon Draws Out Realities of Dementia
By Alexa Heah, 22 Sep 2023

Alzheimer’s Research UK, in collaboration with creative agencies Above+Beyond and Yonder Media, has launched an emotionally charged animated film designed to shed light on the harsh reality faced by individuals battling the dreaded disease.
At first, the poignant film, narrated by acclaimed actress Olivia Colman, seems to employ the familiar framework of a traditional fairy tale. However, unlike the usual “happy endings” seen in classic Disney cartoons, it takes an unexpected and heart-wrenching turn.
Viewers look on as the prince’s character and appearance deteriorate due to Alzheimer’s—casting a narrative twist serves as a stark representation of the cruel impact of the illness.
More importantly, the spot concludes with a jarring revelation that the story mirrors the everyday life of nearly one million individuals in the UK grappling with a similar situation.

Despite the somber statistics highlighting that someone develops Alzheimer’s every three minutes, there is still a message of hope.
The commercial ends with a notable call to action, reminding the public: “But with research, it can be cured. You can change the ending.”

[via Marketing Beat and Creative Review, images via Alzheimer’s Research UK]
This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been manually reviewed & edited.