Action Man: Battlefield Casualties

Action Man: Battlefield Casualties is not for kids, as it is dark. However, it is done so to put out a message. Made by Veterans for Peace UK, a group of war veterans, these three PSAs were made with the intent to challenge the British Army's policy allowing teenagers as young as sixteen to join (a controversial rule that I agree should be changed).

Done in the style of a VHS recording, the PSA shows three commercials for a line called "Action Man: Battlefield Casualties" (Action Man being the U. K.'s version of G. I. Joe). The three figures are basically Action Men who suffer from an effect of war, like PTSD, disabilities, or even dying, as the aim is to show the reality of joining the military. And the kid playing with these toys are all happy despite the grim nature, as it basically takes a stab at military propaganda effects children, as they only show one side of military service (as this PSA and an exhibit to display the toys were done in the run-up to Armed Forces Day). This is not for kids, as the PSA is not for the faint of heart (Dead Action Man being the darkest), but I think they have a good lesson to teach.

This short will touch anyone with a taste for dark humor. It had me in stitches. It perfectly parody's 70-80's action figure commercials.

This gem shows how the toy companies marketed the glory of war with out any of the horrific consequences.

Definitely watch.