best commercials of all time,The Best Commercials of All Time: Inspiration for AI-Generated Advertising
This article explores 20 of the most memorable and effective commercials, analyzing what made them successful and how AI can learn from them to create better ads:
CommercialKey ElementsWhy It WorkedApple "1984"Storytelling, cinematic visualsCreated a powerful visionCoca-Cola "Hey Kid, Catch!"Emotional appeal, simplicityHeartwarming momentOld Spice "The Man Your Man Could Smell Like"Humor, quick cutsUnexpected and funnySnickers "Betty White"Celebrity cameo, humorSurprising and relatableVolkswagen "The Force"Pop culture reference, cute kidNostalgic and sweetAlways "#LikeaGirl"Social message, real peopleThought-provokingBudweiser "Puppy Love"Cute animals, emotional storyHeartwarmingGoogle "Parisian Love"Simple storytelling, product demoShowed real-life useDove "Real Beauty Sketches"Social experiment, emotional revealEye-opening messageNike "Dream Crazy"Inspirational message, controversyGot people talking
Key takeaways for AI-generated advertising: • Focus on evoking emotions and telling compelling stories • Use humor, surprise, and relatable situations • Incorporate pop culture references when relevant • Demonstrate product benefits in creative ways • Consider social messages that resonate with audiences
AI and human collaboration will be crucial for creating impactful future ads that combine data-driven insights with human creativity and emotional intelligence.
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How We Chose the Best Commercials
We picked the best commercials based on four main things:
- How easy they are to remember
- How clever they are
- How well they show what the brand is about
- How they make people feel
These factors help us find ads that people liked and that changed how ads are made.
Here's a breakdown of why these factors matter:
FactorWhy It's ImportantExampleEasy to rememberPeople think of the brand when they recall the adApple's "1984" - still known after 30+ yearsCleverCatches people's attention and gets them talkingCoca-Cola's "Hey Kid, Catch!" - funny and smartShows brand messageTells people what the company stands forOld Spice's "The Man Your Man Could Smell Like" - made the brand seem funMakes people feel somethingHelps people connect with the brandAlways' "#LikeaGirl" - made people think about empowerment
When we look at these things, we can see why some ads work better than others. This helps us understand what makes a good ad, which can be useful for making new ads, even with AI help.
1. Apple - 1984
Apple's "1984" ad, directed by Ridley Scott, is one of the most famous commercials ever made. Here's why it stands out:
Easy to Remember
The ad shows a dark future world, like in the book "1984" by George Orwell. People still talk about the scene where a woman throws a hammer at a big screen showing a scary leader.
Smart Ideas
Ridley Scott made the ad look like a movie. It used strong images and spooky music to make people pay attention. This was new for ads at the time.
Brand Message
The ad said Apple's Macintosh computer was about being free and different. It was the opposite of IBM, which was seen as the big, boring computer company then.
How It Made People Feel
Young people liked the ad because it was about fighting back and being yourself. It made Apple's computer seem cool and different from other brands.
AspectWhy It WorkedLookDark, movie-like scenesSoundSpooky music that fit the moodMessageApple = freedom, IBM = boringFeelingMade people want to be different
This ad showed how to make something people remember and care about. Many ads today still try to copy what "1984" did so well.
2. Coca-Cola - Hey Kid, Catch!
Coca-Cola's "Hey Kid, Catch!" ad from 1979 shows how a simple story can make people feel good. It stars "Mean" Joe Greene, a tough football player, and a young boy.
Why People Remember It
The ad surprises viewers. At first, Greene looks grumpy. But when the boy offers him a Coke, Greene smiles and gives the boy his jersey. The "Hey, kid... catch!" moment sticks in people's minds.
Smart Idea
The ad uses opposites to tell its story. A big, scary football player meets a small, friendly boy. This makes people curious about what will happen.
How It Made People Feel
The ad makes people feel happy. When the boy is kind and Greene becomes friendly, it warms people's hearts. The ad's message, "Have a Coke and a Smile," fits perfectly with what happens in the story.
Part of the AdWhat It DidSettingOne place, simple storyTalkingNot much talking, focus on feelingsMain IdeaCoca-Cola brings people togetherFeelingMakes people feel good
This ad shows that a simple idea, done well, can make people remember it and feel something strong.
3. Old Spice - The Man Your Man Could Smell Like
Old Spice's ad with Isaiah Mustafa, a former NFL player, became very popular. It talks to women, saying their men could smell like Mustafa if they used Old Spice. The ad works well because it's funny, uses people viewers can relate to, and has a clear message about the brand.
Why People Remember It
The ad sticks in people's minds because:
- It's unexpectedly funny
- Mustafa is very charming
- It has quick, snappy lines
- The situations are silly
- It uses the catchy phrase "The Man Your Man Could Smell Like"
Smart Ideas
The ad stands out because:
- It uses a former NFL player to speak to a new group of buyers
- It's very different from other ads
- It uses humor and silliness to get attention
What It Says About Old Spice
The ad tells people:
- Old Spice can make men more confident
- Using Old Spice can make men more attractive to women
- The message is simple: use Old Spice to be like the man in the ad
How It Makes People Feel
The ad connects with viewers by:
- Making them laugh
- Using a likable main character
- Showing situations people can relate to
- Creating a good mood
Part of the AdWhat It DoesScenesShows many silly situationsSpeakingUses quick, funny linesMain PointOld Spice makes men smell betterFeelingMakes people laugh and feel happy
4. Snickers - Betty White
Why People Remember It
The Snickers ad with Betty White stands out because:
- It's funny
- It uses a surprising idea: a 90-year-old woman playing football
- It helped make Betty White popular again
- It made more people buy Snickers
Smart Ideas
The ad was clever because:
- It used an old woman to play a tough football player
- It fit well with the "You're Not You When You're Hungry" idea
- The special effects and Betty White's acting were very good
What It Says About Snickers
The ad tells people:
- Snickers can help when you're hungry and grumpy
- The candy bar can make you feel like yourself again
How It Makes People Feel
The ad connects with viewers by:
- Making them laugh
- Surprising them
- Creating a good mood
Part of the AdWhat It DoesMain IdeaSnickers fixes hunger and bad moodsHumorUses unexpected situations to make people laughStar PowerBetty White's fame helps people remember the adMessageSimple and clear: eat a Snickers when you're hungry
This ad shows how using humor and surprise can make people remember a product and want to buy it.
5. Volkswagen - The Force
Why People Remember It
The Volkswagen "The Force" ad from 2011 is very popular:
- Shows a young boy dressed as Darth Vader
- Boy tries to use "the force" on things, including his parents' new Passat
- Got over 61 million views on YouTube
Smart Ideas
The ad is clever because:
- It uses Star Wars in a new way
- Shows a child's imagination
- Has good special effects and sound
What It Says About Volkswagen
The ad tells people:
- Volkswagen cars are good for families
- The company makes high-quality cars
- Volkswagen understands what customers want
How It Makes People Feel
The ad connects with viewers by:
- Reminding them of childhood
- Making them smile
- Showing a sweet moment between parent and child
Part of the AdWhat It DoesMain IdeaVolkswagen cars are fun and family-friendlyStar Wars ThemeGets people's attentionChild ActorMakes the ad cute and relatableSurprise EndingMakes people feel good
This ad shows how using a well-known movie idea and a cute story can make people remember a car brand and feel good about it.
6. Always - #LikeaGirl
Why People Remember It
The Always "#LikeaGirl" ad is well-known because:
- It got over 90 million views on YouTube
- The hashtag #LikeAGirl became popular for supporting women
- It made people think differently about what "like a girl" means
Smart Ideas
The ad was clever because it:
- Used a simple idea to challenge old ways of thinking
- Told stories that made people feel something
- Used social media to spread its message
What It Says About Always
The ad shows that Always:
- Cares about more than just selling products
- Wants to help girls feel good about themselves
- Believes in making positive changes
How It Makes People Feel
The ad connects with people by:
- Making them think about how words can hurt
- Inspiring people to share their own stories
- Starting talks about treating girls fairly
Part of the AdWhat It DoesMain IdeaChanges how people think about "like a girl"StorytellingUses real people to show why words matterSocial MediaSpreads the message using #LikeAGirlBrand ImageShows Always cares about girls' confidence
This ad shows how a simple idea can make people think and feel differently about something they hear every day.
7. Budweiser - Puppy Love
Why People Remember It
The Budweiser "Puppy Love" ad is very popular because:
- It tells a sweet story about a puppy and a horse becoming friends
- Many people have watched it online (over 37 million views on YouTube)
- It makes people feel happy and want to share it with others
How It Makes People Feel
The ad makes viewers feel:
- Happy
- Nostalgic
- Connected to others
These feelings help people remember the ad long after they've seen it.
What It Says About Budweiser
The ad shows that Budweiser:
- Cares about more than just selling beer
- Wants to bring people together
- Understands what's important to its customers
Part of the AdWhat It DoesStoryUses a cute puppy and horse to make people feel goodFeelingsMakes people want to connect with othersBrand ImageShows Budweiser as a friendly company
This ad proves that a simple, heartwarming story can make people remember a brand and feel good about it. By focusing on friendship and connection, Budweiser creates an ad that people want to watch and share with others.
8. Google - Parisian Love
Why People Remember It
Google's "Parisian Love" ad stands out because:
- It tells a love story using only Google searches
- Many people watched it during the Super Bowl
- Viewers often recall the ad long after seeing it
Smart Ideas
The ad shows Google's clever way of telling stories:
- Uses only search terms and results to create a story
- Different from usual Super Bowl ads
- Catches people's attention with its simple approach
How It Makes People Feel
The ad connects with viewers by:
- Making them feel happy
- Reminding them of their own experiences
- Creating a warm, fuzzy feeling
Part of the AdWhat It DoesStoryShows a love story through Google searchesFeelingsMakes people happy and nostalgicGoogle's ImageShows Google helps connect people
This ad proves that a simple story can make a big impact. By focusing on how people use Google in their daily lives, the company creates an ad that viewers enjoy and remember.
9. Dove - Real Beauty Sketches
Why People Remember It
Dove's "Real Beauty Sketches" ad is well-known because:
- It got over 163 million views on YouTube
- It made people think about beauty in a new way
- It helped women see themselves differently
Smart Ideas
The ad did something new:
- Used an FBI sketch artist to draw women
- Compared how women see themselves to how others see them
- Showed the difference between the two drawings
How It Makes People Feel
The ad touches people's hearts by:
- Showing women they might be too hard on themselves
- Making viewers think about how they see themselves
- Starting talks about beauty and self-image
Part of the AdWhat It DoesTwo SketchesShows how women see themselves vs. how others see themReveal MomentSurprises women when they see the drawingsMain MessageTells women they're more beautiful than they think
This ad shows how a simple idea can make people think and talk about important things like beauty and self-image.
10. Nike - Dream Crazy
Why People Remember It
Nike's "Dream Crazy" ad from 2018 is hard to forget because:
- It features Colin Kaepernick, a former NFL player who sparked debate
- The slogan "Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything. Just do it." caught people's attention
- It got people talking and thinking
Smart Ideas
The ad:
- Shows athletes doing amazing things
- Tells stories that make people think
- Uses bold words and images
What It Says About Nike
The ad shows that Nike:
- Wants people to believe in themselves
- Thinks it's good to stand up for what you believe in
- Supports athletes who push limits
How It Makes People Feel
The ad:
- Makes people want to try hard things
- Gets people talking about important issues
- Helps viewers feel strong and brave
Part of the AdWhat It DoesColin Kaepernick's StoryShows someone who gave up a lot for his beliefs"Believe in something" SloganTells people to stand up for what they think is rightAthletes Doing Hard ThingsShows that working hard can lead to big wins
This ad shows how a company can make people think and feel strongly about something. It's a good example of how ads can do more than just sell things.
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11. John Lewis - The Bear and the Hare
Why People Remember It
The John Lewis Christmas ad from 2013, "The Bear and the Hare," stands out because:
- It uses both animation and music in a new way
- Lily Allen sings a cover of Keane's "Somewhere Only We Know"
- People still talk about it years later
How It Makes People Feel
The ad touches people's hearts by:
- Telling a story about two unlikely animal friends
- Making viewers feel warm and happy
- Reminding people of good times from the past
What It Says About John Lewis
The ad shows that John Lewis:
- Cares about being kind and giving
- Wants to make customers happy
- Thinks friendship is important, especially during holidays
How It's Different
The ad stands out because:
- It uses special animation that looks different from other ads
- The music fits the story well
- It pays close attention to small details in the pictures
Part of the AdWhat It DoesAnimationMakes the ad look special and differentMusicHelps tell the story and makes people feel somethingStoryShows the importance of friendshipOverall FeelMakes people think of Christmas and being with friends
This ad shows how using art and music together can make people remember a store and feel good about it, especially during the holidays.
12. Metro Trains - Dumb Ways to Die
Why People Remember It
The "Dumb Ways to Die" ad by Metro Trains is hard to forget because:
- It has a catchy song that sticks in your head
- The cartoon characters are funny and cute
- It talks about train safety in a fun way
- Many people shared it online
Smart Ideas
The ad does some clever things:
- Uses humor to talk about a serious topic
- Has colorful characters that people like
- Spreads its message on different platforms (posters, books, etc.)
- Makes train safety interesting instead of boring
How It Makes People Feel
The ad connects with viewers by:
- Making them laugh
- Using characters they can relate to
- Helping them understand why safety matters
- Encouraging them to be more careful
What It Says About Metro Trains
The ad shows that Metro Trains:
- Cares about keeping people safe
- Knows how to talk to young people
- Wants to make a difference in people's behavior
Part of the AdWhat It DoesSongMakes the message easy to rememberCharactersMakes safety fun and relatableHumorGets people's attentionSafety MessageTeaches people to be careful around trains
This ad shows how making something fun can help spread an important message. By using music, humor, and cute characters, Metro Trains made people think about safety in a new way.
13. Mountain Dew - Puppy Monkey Baby
Mountain Dew's "Puppy Monkey Baby" ad is odd but hard to forget. It shows a strange creature with a pug's head, monkey's body, and baby's legs to sell their "Kickstart" energy drink.
Why People Remember It
The ad sticks in people's minds because:
- It has a weird creature
- The "Puppy Monkey Baby" song is catchy
- Many people watched and shared it online
Views and SharesNumberOnline views2.2 millionSocial media shares300,000
It was the most talked-about Super Bowl ad when it aired.
New Ideas
The ad makers tried something different:
- Mixed three things people like online: puppies, monkeys, and babies
- Used humor to get attention
- Made something very different from other ads
What It Says About Mountain Dew
The ad shows that Mountain Dew:
- Is different from other drinks
- Isn't afraid to be weird
- Wants to appeal to young men
How It Makes People Feel
The ad tries to:
- Make people laugh
- Entertain viewers
- Create a fun mood
This shows that making people laugh can help them like and remember a brand.
14. Amazon - Alexa Loses Her Voice
Amazon's "Alexa Loses Her Voice" ad is funny and shows what Alexa can do. In the ad, Alexa can't talk, so famous people like Gordon Ramsay and Rebel Wilson try to help.
Why People Remember It
The ad sticks in people's minds because:
- It has many famous people in it
- It's funny and surprising
- It keeps people watching to see what happens next
New Ideas
The ad does something different:
- It makes up a funny story about Alexa not working
- It uses jokes to show what Alexa can do
- It mixes real Alexa features with silly made-up ones
What It Says About Amazon
The ad shows that Amazon:
- Likes to try new things
- Wants people to think Alexa is helpful
- Can laugh at itself
How It Makes People Feel
The ad tries to:
- Make people laugh
- Keep people interested
- Make people like Alexa more
Ad SuccessNumbersPeople who watched online50.1 millionRanking in Super Bowl ads#1 (USA Today Ad Meter)
This ad shows that making people laugh can help them remember and like a product.
15. IKEA - Red Lamp
Why People Remember It
The IKEA "Red Lamp" ad sticks in people's minds because:
- It makes you feel sorry for a lamp being thrown away
- It has a funny twist at the end
- A Swedish man appears and tells viewers not to feel bad for the lamp
New Ideas
The ad does some clever things:
- Tells a story that surprises people
- Uses humor in an unexpected way
- Makes a simple idea work well
What It Says About IKEA
The ad shows that IKEA:
- Thinks their products are useful but not too special
- Can laugh at itself
- Wants people to think about why they buy things
How It Makes People Feel
The ad tries to:
- Surprise viewers
- Make people laugh
- Get people thinking about their stuff
Part of the AdWhat It DoesSad musicMakes you feel sorry for the lampSwedish manAdds humor and surprises viewersMessageTells people not to get too attached to thingsOverall feelMakes you think and laugh at the same time
This ad shows how using surprise and humor can make people remember a brand and think about it in a new way.
16. Cadbury - Gorilla
Why People Remember It
The Cadbury 'Gorilla' ad is hard to forget because:
- It shows a gorilla playing drums to Phil Collins' song 'In the Air Tonight'
- It's not what you'd expect from a chocolate ad
- The mix of a gorilla and chocolate surprised people
New Ideas
The ad did some new things:
- It didn't show the product or talk about chocolate
- It used music and visuals to make people feel good
- It told a story instead of just selling something
How It Makes People Feel
The ad tries to:
- Make people happy
- Get people excited about the music
- Connect good feelings with Cadbury chocolate
What It Says About Cadbury
The ad shows that Cadbury:
- Wants people to think of their chocolate as fun
- Isn't afraid to try new things
- Cares more about how people feel than just selling chocolate
Part of the AdWhat It DoesGorillaSurprises viewers and makes them laughMusicCreates excitement and good feelingsNo chocolate shownMakes people curious and remember the adOverall feelLinks Cadbury with happiness and fun
This ad shows how using surprise and music can make people remember a brand and feel good about it. It helped Cadbury sell 9% more chocolate, showing that sometimes not talking about your product can work well in ads.
17. Dollar Shave Club - Our Blades are F***ing Great
Why People Remember It
The Dollar Shave Club ad stands out because:
- It uses strong language that surprises viewers
- Its funny approach is different from usual razor ads
- The video is fun to watch and easy to share online
New Ideas
The ad does some clever things:
- Makes fun of typical razor commercials
- Uses a simple, homemade look to seem more real
- Speaks directly to viewers in a friendly way
How It Makes People Feel
The ad tries to:
- Make people laugh
- Show it understands why shaving can be annoying
- Create a good mood around the brand
What the Ad DoesHow It WorksUses humorMakes people laugh and remember the adTalks about shaving problemsShows it understands what customers deal withLooks homemadeMakes the brand seem more honest and down-to-earth
This ad shows that being funny and talking like a real person can help people like and remember a brand. By making jokes about shaving and using simple language, Dollar Shave Club got people's attention and made them want to try their razors.
18. Thai Life Insurance - Unsung Hero
Why People Remember It
The Thai Life Insurance "Unsung Hero" ad is very popular because:
- It tells a touching story about a kind man
- Many people watched and shared it online
- It makes viewers feel strong emotions
Online ActivityNumbersYouTube viewsOver 6 millionFacebook shares800,000Tweets22,000 in one week
How It Makes People Feel
The ad touches people's hearts by:
- Showing everyday good deeds
- Using music and images to create feelings
- Helping viewers think about being kind to others
What It Says About Thai Life Insurance
The ad shows that Thai Life Insurance:
- Cares about love and sharing
- Thinks helping others is important
- Wants to connect with customers through feelings
What the Ad DoesHow It WorksCreates feelingsMakes people care about the brandShows a real-life storyMakes the company seem honestFocuses on helping othersShows the company cares about people
This ad proves that making people feel something can help them like and remember a brand. By showing a simple story about being kind, Thai Life Insurance got people's attention and made them think about what's important in life.
19. Google - Loretta
Why People Remember It
Google's "Loretta" ad is easy to remember because:
- It tells a touching story about an old man using Google to remember his late wife
- It makes people feel nostalgic and warm
- Many viewers can relate to the story
How It Makes People Feel
The ad touches people's hearts by:
- Showing a story about love and loss that many can understand
- Using music and pictures to create strong feelings
- Helping viewers think about their own memories and loved ones
What It Says About Google
The ad shows that Google:
- Wants to help people in their daily lives
- Understands that technology can be used for personal, emotional reasons
- Cares about connecting with users on a personal level
Ad ElementWhat It DoesStoryShows how Google Assistant helps remember loved onesEmotionsMakes viewers feel nostalgic and touchedTechnologyDemonstrates Google Assistant's helpful featuresBrand ImagePresents Google as caring and understanding
This ad proves that telling a personal story can make people remember and like a brand. By showing how Google Assistant can help with memories, the company connects with viewers on an emotional level.
20. Budweiser - Whassup!
Budweiser's "Whassup!" ad became famous and showed friends having fun together.
Why People Remember It
The ad is easy to remember because:
- It's simple and funny
- People still say "Whassup?" today
- It shows friends talking while drinking beer
New Ideas
The ad did something different:
- Used a simple idea that worked well
- Made people laugh
- Became part of everyday talk
What It Says About Budweiser
The ad shows that Budweiser:
- Is about friendship
- Goes well with hanging out
- Likes when people have fun together
How It Makes People Feel
The ad:
- Makes people want to connect with friends
- Is funny and easy to understand
- Reminds people of good times with friends
Part of the AdWhat It Does"Whassup!" sayingMakes people remember the adFriends talkingShows how Budweiser fits in with hanging outFunny momentsMakes people enjoy watchingOverall messageLinks Budweiser with friendship and fun times
This ad shows that a simple, funny idea can make people like a brand. By showing friends having fun and using a catchy phrase, Budweiser made people think of their beer when hanging out with friends.
What AI Can Learn from These Ads
The best ads connect with people and make them feel something. AI can learn from these ads to make better ones. Here's what AI can pick up:
Feelings Matter
Good ads make people feel things. AI can look at what people like and make ads that speak to them. By knowing what makes people happy, sad, or excited, AI can create ads people remember.
Telling Stories
People love stories. AI can learn to write good stories for ads. By looking at how the best ads tell stories, AI can make ads that keep people interested.
Keep It Simple and New
The best ads are often easy to understand but have new ideas. AI can come up with fresh ways to talk about products. It can look at what worked before and try new things.
People Still Know Best
While AI can look at lots of information, people still understand other people best. AI should work with people to make sure ads make sense and don't upset anyone.
What AI Can LearnHow It HelpsUnderstanding feelingsMakes ads people care aboutTelling good storiesKeeps people interestedSimple but new ideasHelps brands stand outWorking with peopleMakes sure ads work well
AI and Human Teamwork in Future Ads
As we look ahead, AI and humans working together will be key in making great ads that people like. By using the best parts of both AI and human thinking, we can make new kinds of ads that tell good stories and connect with people.
Mixing AI Skills with Human Know-How
AI can:
- Look at lots of information
- Make many different ad designs
- Find what works well in ads
Humans can:
- Understand feelings
- Know what fits a brand
- See things from different views
To make good ads, we need to use both AI and human skills. This way, we can make sure AI-made ads fit with what a brand wants and what people like.
What's Next for Big Ads
As AI gets better, we'll see new ways to use it in ads. Here are some ideas:
New Ad TypesHow They WorkAds you can play withAI makes the content, people check it's okayAds made just for youAI finds who to show ads to, people make sure they're friendlyAds that changeAI makes ads work better, people add new ideas
Wrap-up
Looking back at the best ads ever made, we can see they have a big impact and give us ideas for new ones. When people and AI work together, they can make even better ads in the future. By using both, we can make ads that tell good stories and connect with people.
As AI gets better at making ads, we'll see new and interesting things:
New Ad TypesHow They WorkAds you can play withAI makes the content, people check it's okayAds made just for youAI finds who to show ads to, people make sure they're friendlyAds that changeAI makes ads work better, people add new ideas
When people and AI team up, they can make ads that:
- Tell stories people like
- Make people feel something
- Connect with people in new ways
As we move forward, mixing what people and AI do best will help make ads that people remember and enjoy. This team effort will lead to new ways of making ads that work well and stick in people's minds.
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