Our favorite holiday ads from over the years
Happy holidays! Ryan here, SRH copywriter and Christmas enjoyer.
Along with raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, holiday ads are a few of my favorite things. Why? Because the holidays are silly, magical, joyful and powerful … and the best holiday ads crank the spirit of the season up to 11.
Believe it or not, some people moan and groan about the commercialization of Christmas. I know! Those people are wrong. Even Santa looks like Santa because Coca-Cola decided that’s what Santa looks like. So let’s take a moment and celebrate the real reason for the season … ads.
Is every holiday commercial a work of art? Of course not. These absolutely are.
One of the things I love about “Faint” — beyond the ad itself, which is hilarious — is that it doesn't pretend Christmas is all about M&M’s. They’re part of the fun, sure, but they’re not the star. M&M’s gets it … unlike that luxury car over there with the big red bow on it.
Old Navy — ‘Twas the Jordan Knight Before Christmas
Featuring the iconic Johnny Mathis, Jordan Knight from New Kids on the Block and the Three Wise Boyz II Men, this Old Navy spot is festively bananas in the best possible way.
This four minute (!) commercial stars Adrien Brody as a train conductor who saves Christmas. Directed by Wes Anderson, this ad is as charming and off-beat as you would expect.
Kids today with their faces buried in their iPhones, amirite? Nope. Sweet, human, lovely. And the editing is … *chef’s kiss*.
If there was a World Cup for Christmas ads — and there should be, this is a VERY GOOD IDEATM — the high-end British department store John Lewis would probably win the whole thing. Here’s a magical, heartfelt ad from 2015. I’m not crying, you’re crying.
Need a beautiful story and a cathartic ugly cry? Apple’s got you. Oh, and is that music from the movie “Up”? Yes, it is. Go on, let it out. You’ll feel better.
Hershey's Kisses — We Wish You a Merry Christmas
One more. From 1989, this ad is simple, joyful, timeless and clever as hell. Love it.
Well, that was festive. I think my heart grew three sizes today … and I should probably get that checked out.
There are plenty more brilliant holiday ads out there.
What are your favorites?
—Ryan