Q&As

How would like to get a call on your mobile phone from Catwoman?

Okay, you’re not going to be talking with Catwoman personally. But you could see a short video clip of her, attached to a promo for the movie, thanks to advanced mobile technology.

It was quite a sight. As John Williams’ theme to “Star Wars” trumpeted through the air, a majestic fleet marched forwarded.

The Imperial Guard? Think even more imposing. Try a battalion of mothers with fully loaded strollers making their way into the Loews Boston Common Theater.

Marketers who sell children’s products face a balancing act: Pitches need to appeal to kids while at the same time inducing grownups to open their wallets.

The Walt Disney Co. usually excels at this. Television commercials for its cruises showcase kid-friendly activities while letting parents know their little darlings would be out from underfoot long enough for adults to enjoy the trip as well. Not bad for a 30-second spot.

Viewers have powerful connections with the television characters they love. After all, unlike movie stars (or their brothers), TV stars like William Shatner – in guises such as Captain Kirk, T.J. Hooker and Denny Crane — visit their homes weekly or even daily. That makes for a powerful emotional connection that translates into ratings — and that translates into advertising dollars.

Americans consume 17 billion quarts of popped popcorn annually or 54 quarts per man, woman and child, according to The Popcorn Board. Approximately 70% is eaten in the home.

Wal-Mart Stores will remodel 1,800 stores over the next 18 months and expand its Metro 7 private-label clothing line to 1,500 stores as part of its ongoing effort to appeal to higher-end shoppers.

TurboTax is giving taxpayers up to $1,200 more on their tax refunds—via gift cards.

Subway restaurants are rolling out branded cash cards to ease payment options and give customers new gift-giving options.

SpongeBob SquarePants has returned to Burger King under a new promotion with the chain touting 20 different character premiums tied to a Nickelodeon episode and a new direct-to-DVD movie.

Forget that pretty sweater or fancy hat, it was all about gift cards over the holidays.