Ono Machiko Returns to Calorie Mate Ads After 25 Years: A Summer with 'Monsters'

Calorie Mate's New Ad Featuring Ono Machiko

After a long hiatus of 25 years, actress Ono Machiko has returned to star in the latest TV commercial for Calorie Mate, a balanced nutritional food product by Otsuka Pharmaceutical. The new ad titled 'Summer Vacation with Monsters', released on July 17, 2023, takes a humorous yet relatable approach to parenting during the chaotic summer break.

In Japan, where over 70% of families are dual-income, the quest for nutritional balance amidst the demands of work and childcare remains a critical concern for parents. The summer vacation, often filled with culinary challenges as children spend more time at home, highlights the need for convenient yet nutritious solutions. Calorie Mate positions itself as a supportive option, allowing children to easily maintain balanced nutrition even on the busiest days.

The commercial features Ono portraying a nurturing mother juggling the antics of her energetic children, who are comically depicted as 'monsters'. Diving into the summer leisure activities, we catch glimpses of the siblings splashing in the pool and filling the house with laughter and chaos. The ad encapsulates the lively essence of summer vacation when little ones often transform into 'monsters' in the eyes of their exhausted parents.

Among its many visual charms, the commercial introduces the Calorie Mate Liquid—an enjoyable source of essential nutrients available in three kid-friendly flavors. This nutritional drink provides balanced sustenance, making it easy for young ones to hydrate and nourish themselves during those sweltering summer days when they may not feel like eating solid food.

The narrative cleverly portrays a typical summer day in the household, beginning with a narrator's humorous statement: 'There are hungry monsters at home during summer vacation.' As the story unfolds, Ono's character embodies the real-life struggle and joy of parenthood. The kids slip in and out of their 'monster' personas, bringing humor and warmth to the portrayal of the family dynamic.

An intriguing aspect of the commercial is the transformation of the children into genuine monsters, lending a whimsical touch to the narrative while still striking a chord with the realities faced by numerous parents. After a fun-filled day at the pool, the children gracefully transition back to their human selves, indulging in their favorite chilled 'somen' noodles alongside the refreshing Calorie Mate Liquid. With smiles on their faces, they savor the meal while reinforcing their nutrient intake. Ultimately, these energized siblings morph back into 'monsters', rushing off with their bug-catching gear, much to their mother’s amusement and concern.

Ono reflected on her experience in the ad, noting the nostalgia of portraying a mother after previously appearing as a high school student in Calorie Mate's ads long ago. She expressed excitement about connecting with today’s parents, who have their own busy and chaotic lives. The vibrant atmosphere on set, featuring playful children who quickly formed brotherly bonds, added to the joy of the production.

The finished product brilliantly marries the surreal and the mundane, showcasing both the creativity of the 'monster' concept and the candid interactions between Ono and the children. The rich flavors of the Calorie Mate Liquid, particularly the nostalgic Fruit Mix flavor, promise to resonate with kids and parents alike. Ono hopes the commercial will inspire parents facing the summer rush, instilling a sense of positivity and understanding while ensuring children have a nourishing break.

To catch a glimpse of this delightful summer adventure, check out the new commercials here: 30-second version and 15-second version.