Five Subliminal Message Buttons

A set of five 1.25" pinback buttons inspired by the 1988 cult film ‘They Live.’ THEY LIVE WE SLEEP

WATCH TV, DO NOT QUESTION AUTHORITY, MARRY AND REPRODUCE, NO THOUGHT, STAY ASLEEP

‘They Live’ is a 1988 American science fiction film written and directed by John Carpenter, and based on the 1963 short story "Eight O'Clock in the Morning" by Ray Nelson. The movie tells the story of an alien race that has taken control of humanity using subliminal messages embedded in billboards, magazines, and other media to brainwash society into submission, while cultivating a group of human elite that has sold out mankind for their own financial and material gain to help secure the alien’s grip on this planet. NO THOUGHT

A small group of rebels are fighting back against this covert invasion by trying to wake up humanity, but at times it seems like a losing battle. When a drifter picks up a pair of rebel-made sunglasses, he discovers secret messages embedded in everything around him - even money! The film starred Roddy Piper (aka wrestler “Rowdy” Roddy Piper), Keith David and Meg Foster. WATCH TV

The film was a minor success at the time of its release, debuting #1 at the North American box office. It initially received negative reviews from critics, who lambasted its social commentary, writing, and acting; however, like Carpenter's other films, it later gained a cult following and experienced a significantly more favorable critical reception. It is now regarded by many as a largely underrated work. STAY ASLEEP

Artist Shepard Fairey credits the film as a major source of inspiration, sharing a similar logo to his "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" campaign. "They Live was…the basis for my use of the word 'obey'," Fairey said. "The movie has a very strong message about the power of commercialism and the way that people are manipulated by advertising." NO IMAGINATION

Wear these buttons while shopping for bubblegum, visiting a bank, or just drifting in the wind.  MARRY AND REPRODUCE

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Pin back on each button. FUS penny for scale. Penny and ruler NOT included. 1.25 inches = 3.175 cm.

Keep us asleep, keep us selfish, keep us sedated