Helvetica

     In our Motion Graphics class we viewed a documentary based around the typeface, Helvetica, which is used almost universally in basic advertising, and used for street signs, subway signs, titles of buildings, etc.  The font was praised by individuals who used it for it being "neat" and "comfortable" looking, without having any unnecessary serifs or bulges in the letter design.  Some disagreed with this and said that the typeface is overused, boring, and "safe"  because of its widespread use and success.  One woman even went as far as to (albeit, sarcastically) say that this font was used to create posters for the war, and therefore created the war itself.

     I have to agree with those who opposed the font, as I am in the exact same boat as those who think the font is too safe.  One man printed out a collection of words all in Helvetica such as 'explode' and excited', but the words do not look explosive or exciting at all.  Helvetica is a beautifully smart, and safe font to use when you are simply trying to get a helpful message across (like street signs and maps in general), but as far as actually using this font to advertise,  I feel like it would have to be used in very creative ways for this typeface to make any more of an impact than it already has.  Just simply being a common, safe, typeface already makes the thought of it less appealing,  and if anything just inspires me to use something else instead.