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Writer's pictureDominic Parker
Nov 15, 201820 min read

UK Christmas TV adverts 2018 Review

Updated: Nov 10, 2023



It's the time of year when social media goes gaga for great advertising.

Consumers across the UK eagerly await the arrival of the Coca-Cola truck, and salivate in anticipation of the latest tearjerker from John Lewis.

So, this month I thought I'd compile the offerings that are currently live.

The scores are based on my own personal opinion and there's no science behind the method whatsoever, other than my own taste which I like to think is excellent :)

I'll aim to keep building on this blog post as more companies release their seasonal offerings.

Merry Retail Festival everybody!

 

Company: Iceland

Title: Say hello to Rang-tan

Released: 8 Nov 2018

Copy: 'You won't see our Christmas advert on TV this year.

But we want to share our 'No Palm Oil' story with you this Christmas.'

Comment: This is the ad that inspired me to write a piece on the seasonal ads for 2018.

I don't think that any person with a conscience can knock the sentiment of this piece of film originally created by Greenpeace. Kudos to Iceland for promoting their ethical stance over palm oil in the products they stock. The use of the awesome Emma Thompson as voiceover adds additional weight. However, there is a question mark as to whether is this a well-planned PR stunt with them knowing that this would likely be 'banned'. There would be a strong chance that they would gain significant extra exposure via this route than if it was aired as normal, which has proved to be true. Iceland claims that it had already spent £500,000 booking prime-time TV slots, which is a significant investment, but as with any media planning, there must've been a consideration around approval between the producers and marketers before they submitted the piece.

There are questions over the ad, it's linked to the political of Greenpeace and it being 'banned' by Clearcast. Chris Munday MD of Clearcast issued a statement justifying the ban as a "matter of broadcasting law". This debate continues to rumble on.

According to The Drum the stumbling point was that the film was originally created by Greenpeace. Iceland's TV offering was "spiked" because it was deemed to be "an advertisement inserted by or on behalf of a body whose objects are wholly or mainly of a political nature".

Iceland has perhaps diverted to a plan B and it seems to be working well for them. But as it's not being shown on TV I can't give it top marks, but a great showing of public support for the issue and a brave route to take by Iceland.

Is it a good Christmas ad though? It looks great, it's making a moral point, it's brave. But in all honesty, this could've been released at any time of the year, nothing ties it to the festive season.

Score: 8/10

 

Company: M&S

Title: Must-Haves

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Copy: 'You’ll get the festive season off to a cracking start when you shop the Christmas advert.

We’ve got all the Must-Haves that make Christmas, from dazzling decorations to perfect partywear, glorious gifts and much more.

It’s never too early to start your preparations so browse our irresistible collection of Christmas Must-Haves and get your shopping all wrapped up in time for the big day.'

Comment: A warm and fuzzy idealised version of Christmas from M&S wrapped up with the popularity of Holly Willoughby. This ad looks great, looks festive and is well-positioned for the M&S demographic.

However, it's also a bit paint by numbers and doesn't provoke much of a reaction. Nice and safe from M&S, but given that interim financial results have been "trading behind expectations", according to Chief Executive Steve Rowe, you might've expected a bit more of a punch from the High Street favourite this year in the run-up to the festive season.

Score: 5/10


Company: M&S Food

Title: Discover your M&S Christmas favourite

Released: 8 Nov 2018

Hashtag: #MyMarksFave

Copy: 'This year, we’ve travelled the length and the breadth of the country to ask the nation what their M&S Christmas Favourite is. What’s your favourite M&S food?'

Comment: A stronger ad in my opinion from M&S Food than the main brand. The use of people discussing Christmas favourites gets you thinking about things that you like and is far more engaging. The return of the very popular M&S Food 'porn' with beautifully shot food really makes this ad, and for me, it's all topped off with the line "You made me like sprouts" (I already love sprouts).

Score: 6/10

 

Company: Aldi pt1

Title: Kevin the Carrot Christmas Cliff Hanger

Released: 2 Nov 2018

Hashtag: #SaveKevin


Coca-Cola truck tweet

Copy: 'Everyone needs to root for Kevin as he’s landed himself in a spot of bother. And is this just the start of his Christmas adventures? Keep your eyes peeled for more to come.'

Comment: A brave ad choice for Aldi to kick start the festive season.

They've been using the Kevin the Carrot character for a couple of years now and created a delightful spoof of the celebrated Coca-Cola truck which hoodwinked many viewers.

It's refreshing to see that Coca-Cola has embraced the spoof and responded to the truck being in peril with a sharp tweet, shown here. The two brands then engaged with each other and Coca-Cola took the opportunity to use it to help promote their truck tour of the UK. If Coca-Cola had taken this badly then there could've been lawsuits flying all over the place, but it seems that in the spirit of Christmas that everyone's a winner.

Score: 10/10


Company: Aldi pt2

Title: Kevin the Carrot and the Wicked Parsnip

Released: 7 Nov 2018

Copy: 'In this Christmas fairytale, it’s crunch time for Kevin the Carrot as he fights to save his family from Pascal, a wicked Parsnip living in a dark castle way up high. As the fairytale unfolds, join us on this enchanting adventure.'

Comment: The fairy-tail theme and adventures of Kevin the Carrot continue. A fun family-friendly advert but not a great showcase of the offering from Aldi this Christmas. The Coca-Cola version offered far better stand out but I'm sure Aldi will sell plenty of Colin the Carrot related merchandise on the back of this campaign.

Score: 6/10

 

Company: KFC

Title: Turkey comes and goes, but chicken's here to stay

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: N/A

Comment: I love this advert, but I can imagine it will be deeply unpopular with many, particularly in the vegan and vegetarian community.

The Wild West-style standoff between the turkey and the chicken is great fun and backed up by the awesome 'The Ecstasy of Gold' composition from the Good, The Bad and The Ugly. Whilst turkey rules Christmas, spoiler alert, the chicken wins the rest of the year.

Score: 9/10

 

Company: Sainsbury's

Title: The Big Night

Released: 11 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'The Show tells the story of the North Star overcoming her nerves to deliver a performance of a lifetime, to the amazement of mum. She is supported by a huge cast of 59 kids aged 6-11, all dressed as a variety of Christmas staples - including a turkey drummer and set of Christmas lights (plug included). The cast all dance and sing along as the stage transforms to reveal a 40ft Christmas tree and a 14ft glitter-filled gravy boat.

The children’s real parents were featured in the crowd too and were intentionally kept away from the castings and rehearsals until shoot day.

We hope you enjoy seeing our whole cast give all they’ve got for the ones they love. Celebrate Christmas with Sainsbury's!'

Comment: This one gives you 'all the feels' parents nervous ahead of school plays. The advert is reminiscent of the recent John Lewis Partnership ad using Bohemian Rhapsody but is original enough to feel different. The use of the new Radicals is an unusual choice of song and lacks the festive feel. Sainsbury's do seem to be borrowing heavily from the John Lewis formula here, but well-executed. The little boy dressed as a plug is a standout and he even has his own hashtag on Twitter now #PlugLife.

Sainsbury's have also released making-of videos and interviews with the kids to add a little extra to the campaign

Score: 7/10

 

Company: Boots

Title: Gifts That Get Them

Released: 8 Nov 2018

Copy: 'Celebrate your loved ones; not just for what they do but who they really are. This year, get them something that says… you get them.'

Comment: A reworking of the Robbie Williams song 'She's the One' and a daughter realising that her mum does loads for her. Nice but overly mushy for my liking. This ad is trying to pull on the heartstrings but doesn't manage it as well as other brands.

However, when compiling this list I did it with my partner and she found this the most emotional and touching of all of the ads so we ended up compromising on the score and bumping it up.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Heathrow Airport

Title: Making It Home Makes It Christmas

Released: 7 Nov 2018

Copy: 'It’s nearly Christmas, which means the #HeathrowBears are back! Watch the new film to see our furry friends preparing for the festivities like you’ve never seen them before.'

Comment: Christmas is a time for family. This sentiment is summed up beautifully by Heathrow Airport as their bears decided to leave the warmth of the Florida Keys for the warmth of home for the holiday season.

Nice and simple, fun and festive. No mention of queues at passport control or a scrum for a giant Toblerone in the Duty-Free areas though :)

Score: 8/10

 

Company: Argos

Title: The Christmas Fool

Released: 2 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: '#FoolproofYourChristmas with a little help from Argos! Get same-day delivery or collect your gifts in-store at Argos or Sainsbury’s.

With Argos, You’re Good To Go.'

Comment: A Grinch-esqe character tries to wreck Christmas but thanks to Argos Christmas is saved.

With the message around same-day delivery or collection at the heart of the Argos message this advert ticks the boxes and has some fun moments without greatly standing out from the crowd.

Score: 3/10

 

Company: Asda

Title: Bring Christmas Home

Released: 2 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: 'Christmas is coming and we just can't contain our excitement any longer! From gifts for everyone to delicious festive food, we've got everything you need to bring Christmas home.'

Comment: An explosion of Christmas imagery racing to get home for Christmas. This is a fun, slick and clear ad from Asda that showcases that they can offer the consumer all they need for Christmas.

Score: 6/10


UPDATE: Original ad removed from YouTube

 

Company: Waitrose

Title: Concert

Released: 8 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: 'Watch the new Waitrose & Partners Christmas ad, Carol Concert #TooGoodToWait

The whole village is gathered for the annual carol concert. The organiser is announcing the final carol when proceedings take an unusual turn.

Christmas is about enjoying great quality food with the people that matter most. But when it’s Waitrose food, you really will do whatever it takes to get to it as quickly as possible.'

Comment: A bit of fun from Waitrose. Another taking on the Christmas concert theme, but with the humour coming out as the audience and participants race for their festive wares. There is nothing new and exciting here but it puts a bit of fun into the advert and has a flavour of sister brand John Lewis.

Score: 7/10

 

Company: Amazon

Title: Can You Feel It

Released: 2 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'The Amazon boxes are back in full voice, singing out loud for those feeling the festive spirit.'

Comment: Singing boxes from Amazon display how they have become a festive monster and most homes can expect a delivery from them this Christmas.

The ad aims to build excitement around a delivery using the song Can You Feel it but the brown box delivery lacks the thought and personal touch of a wrapped gift.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Barbour

Title: Barbour Christmas

Released: 1 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: 'Maybe, just maybe the magic will come alive this Christmas.

The story of 'The Snowman' comes alive this #BarbourChristmas as we celebrate the 40 years of the much-loved Raymond Briggs children's book.

Share our Christmas story.'

Comment: Who doesn't love The Snowman at Christmas? The tinkle of the first music bars gets the hairs on the back of your neck standing up. A story shared around families over the years and a staple of modern-day Christmas tradition.

The association with Barbour is an unusual one, but the execution is lovely and gives a bit of Christmas magic, some humour and that warm fuzzy feeling inside.


It's interesting to see a different take on the version Irn-Bru offered up previously using the Raymond Briggs tale as inspiration.

Score: 9/10

 

Company: Visa

Title: Keep It Local This Christmas

Released: 8 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: 'All they want for Christmas is you!

Watch the 2018 Christmas Ad and join Visa in supporting the High Street #KeepItLocalThisChristmas

Visa's debut UK Christmas advert features nine real shopkeepers – including a butcher, baker, bookseller and a florist - inviting the nation to visit the high street this Christmas. Visa is switching the focus from what people are buying or who they are buying for - to where they are buying, encouraging shoppers to support their high streets and local communities this year.'

Comment: Lovely sentiment from Visa to support your local High Street instead of relying on internet shopping and large chains. The use of Mariah Carey adds the Christmas sparkle. But, this isn't really anything new it feels a bit like a safe festive advert that's been done before.

Score: 7/10


UPDATE: Original ad removed from YouTube

 

Company: Virgin Experience Days

Title: Gift Dreams

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Hashtag: #GiftDreams

Created by: ?

Copy: 'Discover gifts that make dreams come true this Christmas, from action-packed driving and indoor skydives, to arty days out and afternoon teas.'

Comment: This advert feels like it's been made for use across social media rather than TV. It uses a generic bed and doesn't greatly excite with its content. Virgin Experience Days offer so many options from adrenaline junkies to the craft orientated ones displayed in the advert. This variety just isn't showcased at all.

Score: 2/10

 

Company: PDSA

Title: Christmas Miracles

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: 'This Christmas thousands of sick and injured pets will be fighting for their lives.

When there is nowhere else to turn PDSA is there to provide expert treatment and loving care when it’s needed most. A ray of light when owners are hoping for a miracle but are fearing the worst.

PDSA performs life-saving miracles for poorly pets every single day.

But we’re a charity and urgently need your help.'

Comment: Ok, this one is set up to be a tearjerker.

This formula works very well for various charities and I would expect a few more ads of this ilk before the season is over. They stick to their formula and do very well, so this is a tough one to score. They do a great job at a tough time of year and they're a charity sticking to what they know works for them, but this offers nothing new and this formula has been executed by others better before.

Score: 2/10

 

Company: Currys PC World

Title: The Magic of Christmas Upgraded

Released: 1 Nov 2018

Copy: 'Our new 2018 Christmas TV advert is here! The Magic of Christmas, upgraded.

Shop the Magic of Christmas at Currys PC World'

Comment: What would happen if a traditional Victorian Christmas was upgraded with modern tech? This is a fun concept and offers something a bit different to modern families watching big screen TV's.

Score: 8/10

 

Company: The Range

Title: The Twelve Days Of Giftmas

Released: 5 Nov 2018

Copy: 'Get everything you want this Christmas with The Range! Watch our wonderful "Twelve Days of Giftmas" tv advert.'

Comment: Maybe I'm getting the wrong end of the stick here but it seems that this ad is suggesting that The Range sells a load of stuff that no one wants, then, in the end, the chap just gets a bit of sympathy.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: TK Maxx

Title: The Neverending Stocking

Released: 7 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Festive tidings! This year at TK Maxx find a neverending stocking in-store or online and get gifts delivered all year round. Yup, it's the gift that keeps on giving, literally. Just another one of our Big Gifts at Small Prices.'

Comment: A neverending stocking that seems to be a cross between Beetlejuice and Audrey II from the Little Shop of Horrors.

This advert is promoting an in-store competition to win gifts for a year, something different to the others listed so far. The concept is interesting and well-executed but promotes greed over a festive feelgood message.

Score: 7/10

 

Company: Debenhams

Title: Do a bit of Debenhams: do a bit of you-know-you-did-good

Released: 6 Nov 2018

Copy: 'This Christmas, we’re celebrating you – the gifter. Pull it out of the ‘box’ & do a bit of #youknowyoudidgood'

Comment: This campaign is odd. There's a series of ads celebrating the giver, great idea. However, the gift has already been given and then they realise that they made the right choice. Surely they should have an idea about that before they make a purchase rather than just hoping for the best and celebrating when they seem to get lucky with their choice? Sorry, it's a swing and a miss for me here Debenhams.

Score: 3/10

 

Company: Tesco

Title: However you do Christmas

Released: 6 Nov 2018

Copy: 'We know that everyone's Christmas is unique. Whether you're sitting down to turkey, beef, or cauliflower wellington this year, we’ve got Christmas covered, with all the trimmings.

However, you do Christmas #EveryonesWelcome at Tesco.'

Comment: Celebrating the little differences that make up a Christmas Day. This is a cute and well-executed advert from Tesco. It showcases their produce well, is warm and festive and also adds a bit of humour. Thumbs up.

Score: 8/10

 

Company: Next

Title: Family Festivities

Released: 1 Nov 2018

Created by: ?

Copy: 'Whatever your plans this Christmas, we've got you covered. Whether you're playing host on Christmas Day or keeping things low key, we're here to help make the festive period feel like magic! From decking the halls with Christmas trees and decorations to finding the perfect stocking fillers to put in those stockings above the fireplace. Our Christmas Shop has all the Christmas presents your family and friends would want from beauty to novelty gifts as well as everything you need to prepare for and enjoy the festive period.'

Comment: A nice ad but this is Christmas TV advertising by numbers. A Dad struggling to cook the food, sprouts jokes, tangled lights, snow, Wizard on the piano, a showcase of items available from the store, games around the table and sleepy grandparents. There is nothing wrong here at all, it does the job, but it's just a bit 'meh' compared to some of the others in this list.

Score: 4/10


UPDATE: Original ad removed from YouTube

 

Company: Very.co.uk

Title: Find the gift that helps them find their Gift

Released: 1 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'At Very we believe a meaningful gift can be worth so much more. It can inspire a child to find their own gift and reach for the stars. See what inspired Elsie in our beautiful Christmas story.'

Comment: Gifts that inspire the future. It's fairly simplistic, doesn't showcase what the brand has to offer or really say much about what the brand does. It looks great but has an element of style over substance.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Quality Street

Title: What's your favourite favourite

Released: 29 Oct 2018

Copy: N/A

Comment: This feels like a bit of a token gesture to Christmas from Nestle. They know that they need to create something but the heart isn't really in it. As tins get smaller and costs are cut out of the seasonal treat it feels like the same has happened with the advertising. They could've done more with the favourite flavour idea to bring it to life.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Vodafone

Title: Glide Through Christmas

Released: 9 Nov 2018

Copy: 'It’s panic stations for Martin as Aunty Sue arrives unannounced at the family gathering and he realises he hasn’t got her a Christmas present.

Luckily, thanks to our best ever 4G network, a present is ordered and awkwardness is averted. Martin expresses his joy by gliding on to the nearby ice rink and giving the performance of his life'

Comment: Martin Freeman is still new to being the face of Vodafone. Using the network to make a last-minute Christmas purchase makes sense. However, devoting half of the ad time to watching his stunt double skate is probably a bit overkill.

Score: 2/10

 

Company: Cadbury

Title: Secret Santa

Released: 9 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Send chocolate to someone special and join our biggest Secret Santa ever.'

Comment: Cadbury is encouraging people to give the secret gift of chocolate this Christmas. A good ad, a nice idea, but a big step down from the creativity they displayed when working with the agency Fallon a few years ago.

Score: 6/10


UPDATE: Original ad removed from YouTube

 

Company: Fortnum & Mason

Title: We’ve been making Christmas merrier since 1707

Released: 1 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: N/A

Comment: This ad feels a bit more like something that would be shown internally as a training video for new starters. It's ok but doesn't showcase the delights and luxury that you can pick up from the store. Nor the meaty price tag that accompanies them.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Littlewoods

Title: Littlewoods Christmas

Released: 7 Nov 2018

Hashtag: #owntheshow

Copy: 'Own the show this Christmas with Littlewoods.com'

Comment: The use of the Greatest Showman soundtrack adds some sparkle. This is short and sharp but doesn't feel very ambitious, in fact, it's fairly forgettable and a bit average compared to some of the others in this list.

Score: 5/10

 

Company: JD Sports

Title: Always The Leader

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Hashtag: #IAMJD

Copy: 'Back and better than ever, join us in the ice cave this Christmas with a few friends you might just recognise.'

Comment: This doesn't really feel like a Christmas ad. It packs a punch, but as it's not really aimed at my demographic I'm probably missing something as I only recognise half of the stars appearing in it. It's slick and stylish but feels like Christmas with an attitude which to me isn't what Christmas is about.

Score: 5/10

 

Company: intu

Title: The Impossible Gift

Released: 1 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Find every gift, however impossible, at your intu shopping centre'

Comment: Not much to say about this. It's trying to be cute with an Orville type character but just doesn't really land on any level for me. intu has a number of high-profile shopping centres across the UK and this feels as generic as you can get in trying to cover this challenge.

Score: 2/10

 

Company: The Original Factory Shop

Title: Love Christmas - Gifts for Those you Love

Released: 24 Oct 2018

Hashtag: ?

Copy: 'Love Christmas - gifts for those you love.

This Christmas, we've something for everybody, with up to 70% off big brands!

From unicorn or llama TV Slippers for the kids and big kids to Adidas Samba trainers for the men in your life. Designer jackets from Trespass, Regatta, and Slazenger will help keep everybody warm outdoors, while our comfy family pyjama sets will ensure a cosy Christmas Eve around the tree.

Enjoy Up to 70% off RRP on toys, fragrances, electricals and fashion plus great value home accessories and decorations.

Get more for those you love this Christmas!'

Comment: A functional advert with a generic festive bed. Probably a limited production budget, but they do pretty well with it. The ad showcases their products and brands in stock and that's it. Simple, job done.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Primark

Title: Everyone's Invited

Released: 5 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'This season, everyone’s invited to get ready for Christmas, with Primark. We’ve got the festive feels, big time, and our stores are chock-a-block with seasonal style to get you prepped for Christmas. From party dresses and smart suits to downtime casuals and loungewear, we know Christmas should be all about fun and fam, so whatever your plans, don’t forget to add a little sprinkle of Primark magic!'

Comment: This is hectic, messy and just an awful viewing experience. Zero Christmas cheer.

Score: 1/10

 

Company: Avon

Title: Christmas All Wrapped Up

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Gifts for Mum, Dad, Sister, the kids.... we've got presents for the whole family.

Discover your brightest Christmas at Avon.'

Comment: This ad has a similar feel to the Original Factory Shop one above. It's showing off product and just reminding audiences that they're there at Christmas. Functional and basic that does a job but won't shift the dial much for the company.

Score: 3/10

 

Company: Drayton Manor

Title: Magical Christmas

Released: 12 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Take a look at our Magical Christmas TV advert which will be playing out across screens this Christmas.'

Comment: Most theme parks close down over the winter months, but it seems that Drayton Manor is embracing the period and promoting it's offering throughout December. A simple and clear advert to raise awareness that they're open. Plus, you get to meet Father Christmas, what more could you want.

Score: 4/10

 

Company: Starbucks

Title: It’s back… Starbucks Red Cup

Released: 31 Oct 2018

Hashtag: #RedCup

Copy: 'That’s right. It’s back. The original. The Starbucks #RedCup'

Comment: I was surprised by this ad. I'm not a big follower of Starbucks and don't really get the hype around the 'Red Cup'. But I really liked the execution of this and it made me smile. For those who are big Starbucks fans, I can see these reactions happening across the country as people post to Instagram pictures of them with their festive drinks, covered in cream in a big Red Cup. Mission accomplished Starbucks.

Score: 8/10


UPDATE: Original ad removed from YouTube

 

Company: Jacamo

Title: Live Your Moment

Released: 8 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Bring on winter. Now all you need is to Live YOUR Moment, in sizes S-5XL. Check out our new winter campaign, featuring Youngr & Brett Morse, launching today.'

Comment: A bland generic Christmas ad with no real stand out. It doesn't really offer anything different but does reasonably well to get the message across about what the Jacamo brand offers its consumers.

Score: 3/10

 

Company: Sky Cinema

Title: Where The Magic Happens

Released: 13 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Happy Christmas from Sky Cinema!'

Comment: Whether you're a fan of the films on offer or not this advent calendar style works well for Sky showcasing how they're offering something for everyone every day across the festive season. If I recall they did something similar last year, but if a formula works then why mess with it.

Score: 6/10

 

Company: Peacocks

Title: Where The Magic Happens

Released: 11 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: N/A

Comment: Nothing's gonna stop us now by Starship gives this ad a real 80's flavour. A take of the movie Mannequin with a bit of Dirty Dancing thrown in makes this just out and out fun.

If I'm honest I wasn't expecting something like this from Peacocks but they deliver something different from everyone else that puts a smile on faces. Plus, I imagine this is bang on for their target demographic. My favourite bit was the family of mannequins flossing.

Score: 8/10

 

Company: Burberry

Title: Close Your Eyes and Think of Christmas

Released: 13 Nov 2018

Copy: 'A collaboration with artist and photographer Juno Calypso, starring Matt Smith, M.I.A., Kristin Scott Thomas, Naomi Campbell and Valerie Morris-Campbell.

Juno explores the dance between the reality and fantasy of a very British Christmas, drawing on her own experiences and rituals; from the unpredictable British weather to family togetherness, delayed trains to festive feasts'

Comment: There are a lot of big names in this and a lot of beautiful people. They're cast to look like living mannequins but they all just look miserable and present a Christmas image that's cold. If you were at their party you can imagine an awkward conversation with no joy from anyone in the room and definitely no good snacks to eat. It looks lovely but is another one for the style over substance group.

Score: 3/10

 

Company: John Lewis

Title: The Boy and The Piano

Released: 14 Nov 2018

Copy: 'Watch the new John Lewis & Partners Christmas TV advert, The Boy and The Piano.

This year’s story is about the power of a gift. And how that gift inspired, changed and influenced the course of a little boy’s life. That little boy just happens to be Elton John. The film begins in present-day and works backwards chronologically through Elton’s life right until the moment on Christmas morning when he received the special gift that changed his life.'

Comment: Here's the big one. Everyone's aware of the annual anticipation around the John Lewis advert. From monsters under the bed to Month the Penguin they're highly shareable, usually emotional and are now a part of Christmas TV tradition in the UK.

I'm going to be controversial here though, I don't think that this is their best. The idea of a gift that nurtures a gift is a great starting point. However, the use of Elton John who is currently promoting his farewell UK tour and a new biopic film about his life feels like he's only doing to for self-interest and it just lacks the festive feels of some of their previous efforts.

It looks amazing and must've cost a fortune to put together with his star power but it just lacks a little festive magic dust for me this year.

Score: 7/10

 

Company: McDonald's

Title: Reindeer Ready

Released: 18 Nov 2018

Copy: 'McDonald's 2018 Christmas ad is here. Time for everyone to get Reindeer Ready.'

Comment: Healthy eating from McDonald's in this ad.

All the children of the UK have forgotten to leave a carrot out for the reindeer but Father Christmas is doing ok for mince pies. Thankfully he spots a handy 24hr Maccies and is able to treat the sorrowful animals.

This ad shows the availability of McDonald's stores and their healthier options. The reindeer are cute and it's a nice idea. A shame for all of the workers who will have to be manning the fort on Christmas eve though.

Score: 7/10

 

Company: Superdrug

Title: Christmas Advert

Released: 21 Nov 2018

Hashtag: N/A

Copy: 'Whether you wanna bag the perfect gift or amp up your makeup for party season, Superdrug has got you covered!'

Comment: If you take out the scene with the Christmas tree then this ad could appear at any time of year. It's very generic. The use of an old Jessie J track makes it feel like it would've fit in better a few years ago and is one of the main reasons why it doesn't feel festive. This feels more like an ad they felt that they had to make because everyone else does one. Fairly forgettable but it would be easy to repurpose for another time of year.

Score: 3/10


UPDATE: Original ad removed from YouTube

 

Company: Moonpig

Title: Christmas Postie

Released: 23 Nov 2018

Copy: 'Our new Christmas TV advert is out and we’re thrilled to be able to share it during this fantastically festive time of year. This year’s story is all about sending cards and gifts to your nearest and dearest – because the perfect present will mean everything!

We are offering 20% off when purchasing a card and a gift together, and because this is such a stellar seasonal offer it’s keeping a postwoman very busy in the lead up to Christmas. Resembling a scene from Santa’s workshop, her sorting room is brimming with Moonpig’s colourful boxes. While she initially looks distressed, she becomes overcome with emotion when she discovers there’s a present just for her in the stacks of boxes (voiced by Diane Morgan).

Christmas is the perfect time to send a card packed full of a year’s worth of a life lived, and gratitude for the people who enrich it. There are so many simple, yet brilliant things that can happen when we all come together to acknowledge each other’s presence in the world. Choose one of our personalised Christmas cards or photo cards that’s just their style and remind them of another fantastic year spent loving one another.'

Comment: This ad has probably been re-purposed and used in multiple countries, and that's fine. It's simple, puts a smile on your face and gets across the message that Moonpig is offering cards and gifts at a discounted rate this Christmas. It does the job nicely for them.

Score: 5/10

 

Please don't be upset if I didn't like your advert, these are just my opinions.

Happy Christmas!

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