Every year, as it starts to get colder, you can hear the sound of big retailers rejoicing. This is when their profitable and highly-anticipated Christmas adverts are put out there for the nation to see. Often these ads have been in the works since January, and are the first sign of the festive season for many of us in Britain. Here are the ones which really shone this Christmas…
1. Sky Cinema’s Family Classic
Family traditions are a staple part of Christmas for most households, and the touching use of The Sound of Music to follow one family’s story is enough to make anyone look forward to cosy days spent in front of the television.
2. A Debenhams Cinderella Story
A Christmas advert which features Ewan McGregor is bound to make the top five of anyone’s list. However, it’s the subtle and sweet modern retelling of the well-loved fairy-tale that nudges Debenhams’ effort up the rankings and gives it the happy ever after it deserves.
3. The adventures of Paddington with Marks & Spencers
Although M&S have come under fire for their ‘unimaginative’ use of an already iconically British bear, their advert still undoubtedly warms the heart. The story of Paddington unwittingly helping a robber to ‘deliver’ the presents he has just stolen is charming, funny and wrapped in Christmas warmth.
4. The inevitable John Lewis advert
Perhaps the most highly anticipated advert, John Lewis are becoming slightly predictable but still pleasant enough. The mellow Beatles cover, loveable monster under the bed and a beaming child on Christmas morning were expected but not any less enjoyable than the concepts of Christmases past.
5. Something for everyone at Morrisons
This winter brought a series of adverts from Morrisons, the hidden gem turned out to be one about gluten free festive food. Surprisingly lovely and reminiscent of one of the ‘true’ joys of Christmas, it showed the relationship between a caring brother and his more cautious sister as he encourages her to enjoy herself during the festive season.
An honorary mention should be awarded to the Sainsbury’s 2014 advert featuring the story of the famous ‘Christmas Truce’ which occurred on the battlefields of WWI 100 years previously. A reminder of peace and friendship in the name of Christmas, it is guaranteed to touch the heart of even the stingiest Scrooge.
by Kate Finlay
