Even before you might have gotten a chance to take down the Halloween decorations, Christmas is already here. And the annual race between major retailers is on as they once again try to capture everyone’s attention through their Christmas ads for 2021.
While 2020 meant many creative studios and agencies couldn’t film in their usual settings because of the pandemic, this year has shown a lot of promise. There’s a mood of optimism and joy all around as people are trying to spend a “normal” Christmas this year with their friends and family- something that many of them couldn’t enjoy last year.
It’s this particular segment of happy going and enthusiastic customers that brands wish to capitalize upon. So, here we are with the 5 best Christmas 2021 ads that are garnering a lot of attention and receiving appreciation from all around.
1. TK Maxx: Christmas to the Maxx
For a consecutive sixth year, ad agency Wieden+Kennedy London has created the Christmas ad for TK Maxx. Directed by the acclaimed director Raine Allen-Miller, this year’s ad tells the story of an unexpected hero. The ad features Laurie, an awkward teenage boy, who is getting ready to perform at a Christmas comeback concert in his local town hall. The ad runs against the backdrop of high anticipation for the show as it was canceled last year.
The ad is a poignant reminder of how different Christmas 2020 was for many of us, which makes this year’s Christmas much more significant. The ad emphasizes the fact that that a truly thoughtful gift can bring about real joy for the recipient, along with their friends and family.
2. John Lewis & Partners: Unexpected Guest
John Lewis’ 2021 Christmas ad film, created once again by Adam&eveDDB, tugs at people’s heartstrings with a story on friendship. The ad was released a little earlier than planned as they understood the importance of a surge in online searches for festive gifts as shoppers are wary of any supply problems that might surface in the lead-up to Christmas.
The 2021 John & Lewis ad has moved from Hare and the Bear in 2013 and Monty the Penguin in 2014, the ad has continued to focus on small acts of kindness and helping charities and features a crash-landed alien girl who becomes friends with a human boy. The ad doesn’t feature any of John Lewis’ products, which has attracted some negative press too. But the retailer definitely doesn’t need to remind us what it sells.
3. Aldi: Ebanan Scrooge
Aldi’s 2021 Christmas ad showcases the story of the Christmas loathing Ebanan Scrooge, who is reminded of what Christmas stands for by Kevin the Carrot who has returned to screens once again this year, despite rumors suggesting otherwise.
The animated story created by McCann UK introduces us to a medley of fruit and vegetable characters, including Tiny Tom, Peas and Goodwill, and Kevin’s Dickensian family. The Aldi ad is a part of a seasonal campaign that will include the donation of 1.8 meals to families that need help across the UK during the upcoming festive season.
4. Marks & Spencer: Make the Season Anything But ordinary & PercyPigmas
Marks & Spencer has launched two Christmas ads for 2021 targeting both its clothing line along with its festive food and drink. For the food advert, Marks & Spencer has brought its iconic character of Percy Pig to life for the first time. Hollywood actor Tom Holland has lent his voice to Percy Pig.
The retailer’s clothing ad campaign has actor Madisyn Ritland as its star. The ad is a creative and nostalgic walkthrough of iconic Christmas moments. The ad has been created by ODD London and shot by Autumn de Wilde.
5. Coca-Cola: Chimney
The 2021 Coca-Cola Christmas ad focuses on the concept of community and features the story of a young lad who wants to create a chimney out of cardboard boxes so that Santa Claus can come to deliver presents. Upon realizing what the young boy is up to, his neighbors join in too and remind us of the community spirit that many of us experienced last year when the pandemic inspired people to reach out to others.
Wrapping Up
As many couldn’t celebrate Christmas last year because of the pandemic, it was certain that the celebrations this year were going to be huge. It has motivated brands to make an extra special splash to get all of us in the mood for the holidays with the perfect blend of magic and nostalgia. Here’s hoping that the upcoming festive season turns out to be just as much fun as these ads and gives us countless memories, again. Cheers!
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