Every week, I attempt to share a compilation of clutter-breaking creative ads and occasionally some commentary on the business of advertising. As many have noted, a majority of the ads out there go un-noticed, so managing to break the clutter is actually a big deal. Here are this week’s picks:
Spotify: all ears on you
Ad agencies and marketers are the key target audience for media brand owners. Back in the day, publications and TV channels would send direct mailers and brochures to media planners or brand managers giving reasons why their property should get investments. Decks would also be shared in networking meetings and such like. It is interesting to see Spotify pitch itself as a brand that delivers an engaged audience. I loved the visual metaphor of a bubble which is oblivious to the world – capturing exactly how we feel when we are lost in music or audio content we like. Simple, yet powerful.
Agency: FCB
McDonald’s UK: McDelivery idents
Remember the classic MTV idents way back when the channel only played music videos?Many were classics and master class in how a story can be told even in 10 seconds (or less). Since then many brands (Screwfix being an example) have created idents for shows or sporting events which they sponsor. Here are some lovely idents which brilliantly convey the genre (movies) and the irresistible nature of food.
Agency: Leo Burnett
Dhara: World Heart Day
A classic ad for a cooking oil brand Dhara is still very popular in India. It is a lovely example of a simple story well told. Here is another well-made film from the brand – it may not have the heart tugging sweetness about it but the unexpected twist in the tale is powerful.
Agency: DDB Mudra
Roku: the power of OK
One could say that comparing the easy navigation of a Roku service to that of inventing the wheel is too much of a hyperbole but the light hearted execution brings a smile and drives home the point.
Carlton: To the pub
Here’s a lovely piece of copywriting for TV. Makes you wonder if the new age digital agencies and ‘made for YouTube’ copy writers can come up with such.
Click on the image above to play the video on YouTube. Agency: Clemenger BBDO
The Royal British Legion: close your eyes
The Royal British Legion is UK’s largest charity for the Armed Forces. It was established to care for those who had suffered as a result of service during the First World War. The charity drives would have garnered great support during the periods when families had someone who had served in the war. In recent times, the armed forces personnel have been posted in conflict zones across the world in difficult conditions, managing complex tasks. A new campaign urges people to reflect on their services through a simple, familiar device – closing our eyes.
Agency: Leagas Delaney
Social media is used to highlight the individual stories of sacrifice. I think all of it works well to evoke a sense of gratitude which is an overwhelming emotion during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Which one was your favourite? Do comment in.