Crafting Commercials That Stick
Brands Who Created Ads We Remember Long After the Big Game
Whether you’re watching a big game, a major event, or just browsing through your favorite shows, some of the most memorable moments are the commercials. Brands are always pulling out all the stops to create ads that stand out from the crowd – some with heartwarming messages, others with quirky humor, and a few that leave us scratching our heads.
While the Super Bowl is often the most high-profile stage for these creative efforts, the true takeaway is the long-term impact of a memorable ad. It’s not just about one commercial, but about how these brands make a lasting statement and ensure they’re remembered long after the final whistle blows. Regardless of whether you were watching this year’s Super Bowl for the Eagles, the Chiefs, or Taylor Swift, we know you were also there for the commercials.
With a mix of humor, heart, and innovation, this year’s ad lineup was no different from past years with brands bringing out all the stops, like celebrity cameos for days, nostalgic movie throwbacks, and silly stunts that left us talking long after the commercials ended.
Here are a few brands that cooked up ads that resonated with us – some for good reasons and others not so much.
Nike: “So Win.”
We can always count on Nike to inspire us to put on our uniforms and get out on the field/court/mat to compete. This year’s “So Win” campaign was no different, featuring some of the biggest headline-making female athletes from the past few years celebrating the relentless pursuit of victory, no matter the odds. With their classic cocktail of empowering visuals and motivational messages, Nike’s ad was a bold reminder that winning is a mindset you carry with you no matter what anyone says. Also, #girlpower.
Instacart: “We’re Here”
If this wasn’t the definition of a feel-good 30 seconds then we don’t know what is. Instacart brought out the big guns of brand mascots with everyone from the Pillsbury Doughboy to the Jolly Green Giant, Mr. Clean, Kool-Aid guy, Energizer Bunny, and even Chester Cheetah. They managed to bring to life the convenience and reliability of their grocery delivery service with a touch of nostalgia and a heartfelt message of support and connection.
Doritos: “Abduction – For The Bold”
Building on its legacy of quirky humor, it was no surprise that Doritos went with an out-of-this-world alien abduction scenario. Because why would the aliens come here for humans when they can have Doritos? Love it or hate it, this was very on-brand for the brand who seems to always nail the “memorability” piece of the ad game.
Coffee Mate: “Cold Foam Tongue”
Sorry not sorry, but we got the ick from the dancing tongue in this one. This feels like even more of a miss since it was launching their new line of Cold Foam coffee creamers. Despite the catchy jingle, strobe lights, and fireworks, we just can’t get past the spinning tongue. No thank you.
Häagen-Dazs: “Not So Fast, Not So Furious”
With a playful take on the high-speed, action-packed world of Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, and Ludacris, Häagen-Dazs slowed things down with a reminder that the best things in life (aka their ice cream) are meant to be savored, not rushed. This was cute and hit us a little bit in the feels. We also can’t help but wonder if there is a Fast & Furious 135 on the horizon…
Pringles: “The Call of the Mustaches”
Adam Brody? Love. Nick Offerman? Love. Flying mustaches? Don’t love. We aren’t sure why there were multiple commercials with flying body parts, but this kind of gave us the ick, too. Don’t get us wrong – we thought the premise was clever and it even made us chuckle once or twice – but the flying hair made us feel uncomfortable. Also, seeing Andy Reid without a ‘stache seems wrong. It’s like when dads shave their beards and it makes their kids cry.
Everyone Wins
At the end of the day, whether a commercial hit or missed, the real magic lies in how memorable it is. Brands spend millions to make sure we not only notice them in the moment but carry their message with us long after the event has passed. So, while we may have opinions on the specific ads that aired, one thing is certain – these commercials sparked conversation and left a lasting imprint on our minds.
As we look ahead, we can only imagine how brands will continue to push boundaries (I’m looking at you, AI) and take new creative risks in their quest to make an unforgettable impact. After all, in advertising, it’s not about being seen, it’s about being remembered.