The holiday season is upon us, and so are the much-anticipated Christmas TV adverts that bring a touch of festive magic to our screens. Retail giant John Lewis has unveiled its 2023 Christmas advert, joining the ranks of brands vying to capture our hearts and minds during this time of year. John Lewis Christmas advert
Released on a Thursday, the John Lewis advert weaves a heartwarming tale featuring a little boy and an unexpected companion, a giant Venus flytrap. While opinions on social media are divided, with some finding it a tad eerie and others appreciating the light-hearted narrative, it’s certainly making waves.
Some viewers expressed their disappointment, while others joked that the John Lewis creative team might have taken inspiration from “Little Shop of Horrors,” the musical featuring a man-eating plant. But there are those who find solace in the advert’s uplifting message during these challenging times.
According to Charlotte Lock, customer director at John Lewis, the company sought to move beyond its previous campaigns and offer something distinct. In contrast to the glitz, glamour, and fame seen in other Christmas adverts this year, John Lewis has chosen to focus on the theme of a modern family Christmas and the evolving nature of traditions.
The advert is set to the soothing tones of “Festa,” performed by the legendary opera singer Andrea Bocelli. It introduces us to a young boy named Alfie, who plants his very own Christmas tree, only to witness it transform into a carnivorous Venus flytrap named Snapper. Eventually, his family embraces this quirky tradition, even enlisting Snapper’s help in opening Christmas presents.
Other retailers have taken a different approach, often enlisting famous personalities to front their campaigns. From Michael Bublé and Rick Astley to Sophie Ellis-Bextor, A-list stars are gracing our screens this holiday season. These celebrities hold a certain cultural sway that makes them appealing choices for advertisers during the festive season, which is often characterized by safe and familiar choices.
Marks and Spencer, for instance, features Dawn French as a festive fairy in its Christmas food advert, accompanied by Hollywood actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. In a playful manner, the advert encourages people to ditch Christmas traditions they no longer cherish.
Notably, M&S faced criticism and later apologized after an outtake from its advert, showing red, green, and silver hats being burned in a fireplace, was likened to the colors of the Palestinian flag. The controversy and public reception remain to be seen.
Asda’s advert showcases the return of Michael Bublé in a new role as Asda’s chief quality officer, tasked with deciding what the nation should eat for Christmas. It generated mostly positive responses, though some felt it didn’t quite match up to the previous year’s “Elf” advert.
Rick Astley features in Sainsbury’s advert alongside real supermarket workers as they explore Santa’s Christmas dinner. A significant year for Rick Astley, he also made his debut at Glastonbury Festival and led a mass sing-along of his classic hits.
Overall, advertisers are anticipated to spend a record-breaking £9.5 billion this festive season. Though the true impact on attracting new customers remains uncertain, these adverts serve as cultural moments that capture our attention, spark conversations, and become part of the history of television. The focus on empathy, care, and nostalgia in these ads reminds us of the importance of traditions, love, and joy during the holiday season.
In conclusion, while the Christmas adverts this year vary in tone and approach, they all aim to spread some much-needed holiday cheer and warmth. And, as they say, it’s the season for giving, and advertisers are giving it their all to make us smile and celebrate together.
Controversies aside, the heartwarming narratives and star-studded appearances set the stage for a joyful and memorable holiday season. As the adverts keep rolling in, we’ll eagerly anticipate the next one that captures our hearts and spreads the Christmas spirit.
