In a world of overdone product placements and cross-promotions, it's hard to appreciate an advertising scheme done well. Whatever the reason may be, 'The Simpsons Movie' and its surprisingly fun gimmicks have proven successful in winning over the most reluctant audiences.

The greatest example of the extremely fun gimmicks are the cross-promotions. The top of that bill is the transformation of 7-Elevens nationwide into the famed Kwik-E-Marts. Roughly 6,000 7-Elevens are now carrying Buzz Cola, KrustyO's cereal and Squishees. And while the actual products are mediocre at best, they manage to get even the most aloof shopper in the Simpson spirit.

On a lighter note, even the cashiers dress in Apu uniforms - most of whom comically fit the stereotype.

While this is the best of the Simpsons Movie's cross-promotions, check out the parallel campaigns at Burger King
and Jet Blue.

Advertising, when well done, should end up well for both parties. The cross-promotions following 'The Simpsons Movie' has ended up good for three parties - the movie, the companies and the audience which has something to get pretty excited about.

For example, 7-Eleven comes off as being part of a joke, not just paying "x-amount" for a mention. It's a creative way of advertising to the masses, as opposed to just throwing a picture of the timely superhero near one of your establishment's products - hoping someone connects the dots.

Ultimately, The Simpsons creators got it. They understand the fan base, and evne how to keep it growing. This is displayed exceptionally well in the competition between the various Springfield's in the U.S. to host the Simpsons' premiere, which was won out by Springfield, Vermont.

'The Simpsons Movie' comes out July 27. We'll see if all this hubbub pays off where it counts - the box office.