This is the kind of brand story that could really have its ups and downs.

On March 24, the CW Network will begin airing "Fly Girls," an eight-week reality television show that follows the lives of five female flight attendants who really work for Virgin America, the upstart US division of Virgin Airlines.

As is typical of reality TV, "Fly Girls" will offer viewers an inside, uncensored view of the women's escapades – and therein lies what could be a huge risk to the Virgin America brand. Already, the Association of Flight Attendants union is expressing disappointment that the show "appears to portray flight attendants as party girls in search of fun and adventure." Indeed, the show does seem to reinforce the less-than-savory stereotype of "stewardesses" in the good old days – not to mention the fact that one-third of Virgin America's flight attendants are male.Continue reading...

 Film director Brett Ratner is doing his part to blur the line between commercialism and cinematography.

"Filmmakers should align themselves with brands," says Ratner, 40. "They can help each other."

Ratner recently collaborated with Kerzner International, a global casino chain and owner of the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

CEO Sol Kerzner wanted to rejuvenate his brand and thought the director, known for his Guitar Hero commercials and blockbuster movies, could help.Continue reading...