"Speed Racer" is said to be lining up at least $80 million in marketing support from promotional partners.  This is a children’s movie so I guess I expected as much but certain aspects of it does upset me.  It’s not like in "Talladega Nights" where they clearly mocked the fact that they were promoting products for their sponsors.  Instead, these campaigns will target little kids and, while I understand it, I have to draw the line when it comes to food.

Here’s the list of their planned partnerships

• General Mills plans to put little ads for "Speed Racer" on the packaging of cereals, Betty Crocker cookie mixes, Old El Paso Mexican foods and more.
• LEGO is creating four "Speed Racer" themed playsets.
• Target will be the movie’s official retail partner.
• Puma is designing shoes based on the movie.
• McDonald’s will be peddling their boys and girls Happy Meals.

Ugh, did they have to include the Happy Meals?  I understand and I’m not one of those mothers who doesn’t allow her children to eat junk food but with childhood obesity on the rise, do we really need movies pushing McDonald’s and cookies on kids?  Just a thought…

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