DUOLINGO

#UNDUNKI With Duolingo English Test

Turned the most awaited film release of the year into a moment for Duolingo English Test
    Brand Experience
THE BUSINESS PROBLEM WE SOLVED

Given that the Duolingo English Test (DET) was a new player in the Indian market, its awareness was lower compared to its competitors. DET wanted to create an opportunity to showcase its USPs and why it was a 'smarter' option compared to other routes to go abroad. It also aimed to leverage and build on the awareness and brand love that Duolingo had in the market to make its mark.

Driven by the desire for global opportunities, many Indian students resort to illegal immigration, known as "Donkey Flights," due to frequent victimisation by fraudulent visa scams, falsified results, and illegal consultancies. Shockingly, in 2023, 96,917 Indians were arrested for attempting illegal entry into the US, highlighting the severity of the issue and the risks involved.  Capitalising on the release of Rajkumar Hirani's blockbuster film 'Dunki', DET seized the opportunity to raise awareness about smarter alternatives for studying abroad. Leveraging the characters' frustration with competitor IELTS showcased in the film's trailer, DET strategically positioned itself as the preferred choice, amplifying its message and leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

HOW WE DID IT

As the trailer for Dunki hit theatres, we swiftly devised a reactive strategy, seizing the ₹120 crore film's momentum. Leveraging Dunki's audience, we positioned DET as the smarter choice for studying abroad, sparking discussions and advocacy. We partnered with Red Chillies Entertainment and integrated DET's message into the Dunki trailer, leveraging Taapsee Pannu's influence for targeted promotion.

 

As we delved into collaborations with Gen Z influencers, we crafted engaging content that wove Dunki's storyline with the unique benefits of DET - by illustrating a scenario where the cast members of Dunki could have experienced a different fate if DET had existed. Influencers developed their theories leading to organic chatter on Instagram and X. Duo’s stunt outside PVR made huge waves among big Bollywood pages, publishers, and X users. On-ground activations, including Vox pops and challenges, amplified engagement, while ticket giveaways drove interest. Together, we turned a film release into a campaign success story, driving awareness and engagement.

IMPACT
  • 70%

    Rise in Social Traffic

  • 25Mn

    Views

  • 371k

    Engagements

  • 600%

    Boost in Social Impressions

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