Super Bowl Ads 2015: The Best, Funniest, And Most Viral
The Super Bowl is not just a sporting event; it's a cultural phenomenon, and a huge part of that is the ads. Every year, companies shell out millions of dollars for a few seconds of airtime during the game, hoping to capture the attention (and wallets) of the massive audience. 2015 was no exception, and the Super Bowl ads that year delivered a mix of humor, heart, and a few head-scratchers. Let's dive into some of the most memorable commercials from that year.
Memorable Super Bowl Ads of 2015
Super Bowl commercials in 2015 were truly a spectacle, showcasing some of the most creative and impactful advertisements in recent memory. These ads not only entertained a massive audience but also left a lasting impression, sparking conversations and setting trends in the advertising industry. The Super Bowl has always been a battleground for brands, each vying for attention with clever narratives and high-profile celebrity endorsements. In 2015, several commercials stood out for their unique approaches, whether through heartwarming storytelling, laugh-out-loud humor, or thought-provoking messages. One notable ad was the tear-jerking spot from Nationwide, which aimed to raise awareness about preventable childhood accidents. While it sparked considerable debate due to its heavy subject matter, it undoubtedly captured the audience's attention and highlighted the brand's commitment to safety. On the lighter side, comedic genius was on full display with ads like the Snickers commercial featuring Danny Trejo as Marcia Brady, a hilarious take on the classic sitcom. This ad was a perfect example of how to leverage nostalgia and humor to create a memorable and shareable experience. Another standout was the BMW i3 ad, which cleverly mocked the typical Super Bowl commercial tropes while showcasing the innovative features of their electric car. The success of these commercials underscores the importance of originality, emotional resonance, and strategic placement in creating Super Bowl ads that truly resonate with viewers. As we reflect on the 2015 Super Bowl ads, it's clear that the brands that dared to be different and connect with their audience on a deeper level were the ones that ultimately emerged victorious in the advertising arena. Whether it was through laughter, tears, or a simple, yet effective message, these ads proved that the Super Bowl is more than just a game; it's a cultural event where advertising takes center stage.
Humorous Highlights
In 2015, humor reigned supreme during the Super Bowl, with several ads opting for a lighter, more comedic approach to capture viewers' attention. These commercials not only entertained the audience but also proved to be incredibly effective in making a lasting impression. Among the most memorable was the Snickers ad featuring Danny Trejo as Marcia Brady from The Brady Bunch. The juxtaposition of the tough-guy actor in the iconic role was both unexpected and hilarious, perfectly embodying Snickers' "You're not you when you're hungry" campaign. The ad was brilliantly executed, tapping into nostalgia while delivering a modern, comedic twist that resonated with a wide audience. Another comedic gem was the Doritos "Crash the Super Bowl" contest winner, which featured a mischievous boy using a time machine to get his hands on Doritos. The ad's clever premise, combined with its quirky humor, made it an instant hit. Its success was further amplified by the fact that it was created by an amateur filmmaker, demonstrating the power of user-generated content in the advertising world. Bud Light also joined the comedic fray with its "Up for Whatever" campaign, which featured a series of unexpected and humorous scenarios. While the campaign received mixed reviews overall, its Super Bowl ad managed to deliver a few laugh-out-loud moments, contributing to the game's overall lighthearted atmosphere. The prevalence of humor in the 2015 Super Bowl ads reflects a broader trend in advertising, where brands are increasingly recognizing the value of making consumers laugh. By creating commercials that are genuinely funny and relatable, companies can forge stronger connections with their audience and increase the likelihood that their message will be remembered and shared. As we look back on these comedic highlights, it's clear that the brands that embraced humor were among the most successful in capturing the hearts and minds of Super Bowl viewers.
Heartstring-Pullers
Not all Super Bowl ads rely on humor; some aim straight for the heart. In 2015, several commercials took a more emotional approach, seeking to connect with viewers on a deeper level. One of the most talked-about (and controversial) ads was Nationwide's spot about childhood accidents. The ad depicted a young boy listing the things he'd never be able to do because he died, a stark and unsettling message. While the ad sparked debate about its appropriateness for the Super Bowl, it undoubtedly got people talking about the importance of child safety. Whether it was effective is up for debate, but it was certainly memorable. Another ad that aimed for emotional resonance was McDonald's "Pay With Lovin'" campaign. The commercial featured people paying for their orders with acts of kindness, such as hugs and compliments. The ad's heartwarming message and emphasis on human connection struck a chord with many viewers, generating positive buzz for the brand. However, it also faced criticism for being overly sentimental and lacking substance. Always' #LikeAGirl campaign also made a splash during the Super Bowl. The ad challenged the negative connotations associated with the phrase "like a girl," aiming to empower young women and redefine societal norms. The ad's powerful message and emotional impact resonated with viewers, sparking conversations about gender equality and challenging stereotypes. These heartstring-pulling ads demonstrate the power of emotional storytelling in advertising. By tapping into viewers' emotions, brands can create deeper connections and leave a lasting impression. However, it's crucial to strike the right balance and avoid being overly manipulative or sentimental. The most successful emotional ads are those that are authentic, relatable, and aligned with the brand's values.
The Unexpected and Viral
Super Bowl ads are often designed to be surprising and generate buzz, and in 2015, several commercials achieved this through unexpected twists and viral appeal. One of the most talked-about ads was the Fiat commercial featuring an elderly gentleman who takes a Viagra pill, only to be revealed that it was to give him the energy to drive his Fiat. The ad's unexpected humor and playful tone made it an instant hit, generating significant buzz on social media. Another ad that capitalized on the element of surprise was the Clash of Clans "Revenge" commercial. The ad featured Liam Neeson parodying his role in the movie Taken, delivering a menacing speech about revenge to a Clash of Clans player who attacked his village. The ad's unexpected celebrity cameo and humorous take on a popular movie trope made it a viral sensation. Newcastle Brown Ale also took a unique approach with its self-aware and meta Super Bowl campaign. The brand released a series of mock ads leading up to the game, humorously acknowledging that they couldn't afford a real Super Bowl commercial. The campaign's clever and self-deprecating humor resonated with viewers, generating significant buzz and proving that you don't need a big budget to make a big impact. These unexpected and viral ads demonstrate the power of originality and creativity in the Super Bowl advertising landscape. By breaking the mold and delivering something truly unique, brands can capture the attention of viewers and generate buzz that extends far beyond the game itself. However, it's essential to strike the right balance between surprise and relevance, ensuring that the ad's message aligns with the brand's values and resonates with its target audience.
Lasting Impact and Takeaways
The Super Bowl ads of 2015 left a lasting impact on the advertising world, offering valuable takeaways for brands looking to make a splash during future Super Bowl games. One of the key lessons learned from the 2015 ads is the importance of originality and creativity. The most memorable commercials were those that dared to be different, whether through humor, emotional storytelling, or unexpected twists. Brands that simply rehashed tired tropes or played it safe often faded into the background. Another important takeaway is the power of emotional connection. Ads that resonated with viewers on a deeper level, whether through heartwarming messages or thought-provoking themes, were more likely to be remembered and shared. However, it's crucial to strike the right balance and avoid being overly manipulative or sentimental. The 2015 Super Bowl ads also highlighted the importance of social media integration. Commercials that generated buzz on social media, whether through viral videos or hashtag campaigns, were able to extend their reach far beyond the game itself. Brands that actively engaged with viewers on social media were able to amplify their message and create a more lasting impact. Finally, the 2015 ads underscored the importance of relevance. The most successful commercials were those that aligned with the brand's values and resonated with its target audience. Brands that tried to be something they weren't or targeted the wrong audience often missed the mark. As we reflect on the Super Bowl ads of 2015, it's clear that the brands that embraced originality, emotional connection, social media integration, and relevance were the ones that ultimately emerged victorious in the advertising arena. These lessons remain relevant today, offering valuable guidance for brands looking to make a splash during future Super Bowl games and beyond.