I must be getting old if I object to adverts

I must be getting old. I used to laugh at those who complain about adverts on TV, radio, newspapers and magazines - but now I find myself joining the ranks of the, "disgusting innit - shouldn't be allowed" brigade.

Well, not quite but you get my drift.

Take for an example an advert displayed on the side of Sydney buses promoting an upmarket shopping complex and the ease with which you can get there by bus.

The advert is split in two - either side of what is always called, "the back door" (which is actually in the middle - you get used to that sort of thing in Sydney) and features a young "punk" looking female travelling to and from the complex by bus.

In the first section she is seen relaxing in her seat and carries the tagline, "Arrive by coach." The other shows her returning home, accompanied by the slogan, "Leave on a high". In this section the girl looks zonked out of her mind. Perhaps that is not the intent - but it is certainly the perception I get.

Another advert I find slightly disturbing promotes video cameras. The advert starts with a young girl and an equally young man, sharing an extremely long and passionate kiss. I rather like that bit so no complaints from me there!

During the advert the couple slowly revolve - still kissing. With each rotation the female gets older while the male remains the same age. The final shot shows a very mature aged woman and a young boy looking at each other. The tagline is along the lines of "memories that last forever".

What disturbs me is the look on their faces in that final shot. The still love-struck woman seems saddened by the way the boy is looking at her - a look that appears to be a mix of puzzlement and disdain. Which just goes to show what a plonker he is because I rather fancy her myself!