7 Ways WWE Have Slowly Manipulated Us Into Optimists
6. Nostalgia Factor
Nowadays there is no easier way to have an idea than to just take an old one. Whether it be exploring the ‘80s in Stranger Things, watching Hollywood remake of the ‘90s, or fashion becoming a more expensive Salvation Army, nostalgia is one of the biggest marketing tools companies employ. So it was no surprise to see the WWE take notice. After all, think of all the wonderful matches that we have seen in Saudi Arabia because of what we remember these old men being when they weren’t old men. Nothing like killing your heroes to make them relive their glory days!
The problem with nostalgia is that it's highly addictive. Everybody dives into Tony Montana mountains of nostalgia nose deep and nobody seems to know how to stop once they're hooked. Look at pipebomb version two once again. It tried to be what we had in 2011, when we were all shocked by the gall of Punk as he shot from the hip with a sense of selflessness that felt as if his words were presents to the wrestling world. And while the moment did a good job reminding you of those feelings, that is often the problem with nostalgia. Nothing like the first rush.
Even the end of that angle traded on this. A Stunner to a McMahon by a babyface who is sick of the overbearing authority. Wasn't there an iconic gimmick based around this? Wonder what that stunning blonde guy from WCW is up to. Point is, they are trying to make you remember how much you loved the Attitude era by copying it. Kofi’s finger to Samoa Joe may have had some inspiration from Stunning Steve. And speaking of ideas from 2001...