1. Apple – “1984”
This ad is widely regarded as one of the greatest Super Bowl commercials ever made. Airing during Super Bowl XVIII in 1984, it introduced the Apple Macintosh computer. Directed by Ridley Scott, the commercial had a cinematic quality that set it apart from traditional ads. With its dystopian imagery and themes of breaking free from conformity, it captured the spirit of the era and positioned Apple as a revolutionary brand.
Why it’s memorable: The ad was bold, futuristic, and sparked a conversation about technology, which made it a cultural landmark in the advertising world.
2. Coca-Cola – “Hey Kid, Catch!” (1979)
Coca-Cola’s Super Bowl commercial, featuring the famous “Hey Kid, Catch!” moment, has remained a classic. In it, a young boy tries to catch a Coke thrown from a passing truck, only to have a football player (played by Pittsburgh Steelers’ Mean Joe Greene) toss him his jersey in return. This simple yet touching commercial conveyed themes of kindness, friendship, and generosity.
Why it’s memorable: The emotional impact of the commercial has made it a fan favorite, and it is still considered one of Coca-Cola’s best advertisements.
3. Budweiser – “Whassup?” (2000)
The “Whassup?” commercial by Budweiser became an instant viral sensation. The ad showed a group of friends shouting “Whassup?!” to each other on the phone, an exchange that became a nationwide catchphrase. The fun, playful ad resonated with a wide audience, and the “Whassup?” phrase became a pop culture phenomenon in the early 2000s.
Why it’s memorable: The commercial’s comedic timing, simplicity, and catchy line made it unforgettable, and it perfectly captured the carefree vibe of the era.
4. Old Spice – “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” (2010)
Old Spice’s ad featuring Isaiah Mustafa, which aired during Super Bowl XLIV, was a game-changer in the world of advertising. With its quirky, fast-paced narrative, the commercial humorously portrayed the brand as something that could transform any man into an ultra-confident, attractive figure.
Why it’s memorable: The ad was funny, self-aware, and had an irresistible charm. It broke the traditional mold of masculinity in advertising, leading to numerous follow-up commercials and a complete rebranding of Old Spice.
5. Chrysler – “Imported from Detroit” (2011)
Chrysler’s ad during Super Bowl XLV featured a powerful voiceover by actor Eminem, paired with a visual tour of Detroit, showcasing the city’s resilience and the brand’s pride in manufacturing cars in America. The ad aimed to highlight Chrysler’s comeback during tough economic times and resonated with viewers who valued American-made products.
Why it’s memorable: The combination of Eminem’s strong delivery and the emotional appeal to national pride made this commercial both memorable and impactful.
6. Nike – “Take It To The Next Level” (2008)
Nike’s “Take It To The Next Level” ad featured an energetic montage of athletes in various sports, all trying to push their limits and reach the next level of greatness. It was a fast-paced, high-energy ad that captured the spirit of Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign. The commercial also included cameos from famous athletes like Kobe Bryant and Roger Federer.
Why it’s memorable: The ad perfectly encapsulated Nike’s message of hard work, dedication, and ambition. Its music and visuals made it a dynamic and inspirational commercial that left a lasting impression.
7. Volkswagen – “The Force” (2011)
Volkswagen’s ad, which featured a young boy dressed as Darth Vader attempting to use “The Force” on various objects around the house, became a fan favorite during Super Bowl XLV. In a twist, the boy manages to use “The Force” on the family’s Volkswagen Passat, and his dad starts the car remotely, making the boy think his powers worked.
Why it’s memorable: The ad was heartwarming and humorous, with a perfect mix of nostalgia (thanks to the Star Wars theme) and cuteness. It became one of the most beloved commercials of the year.
8. Snickers – “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” (2010)
This Snickers commercial starring Betty White became one of the most iconic ads of its time. In the ad, Betty White plays football with a group of young men, and after being hit hard, she transforms back into her true self after eating a Snickers bar. The tagline, “You’re not you when you’re hungry,” resonated with viewers and made the ad an instant classic.
Why it’s memorable: The humor, combined with the star power of Betty White, made it both funny and memorable. Plus, the relatable theme of hunger and its effects made the message stick with people.
What Makes a Great Super Bowl Commercial?
Creating a Super Bowl commercial that stands out requires more than just a big budget. Here are some key factors that make a commercial memorable:
1. Humor
Super Bowl ads that make people laugh tend to become viral. Humor is a powerful tool in advertising because it captures attention and makes the ad more shareable.
2. Emotional Appeal
Whether it’s heartwarming, touching, or inspiring, commercials that tug at the heartstrings are more likely to leave a lasting impression. Emotional connections help brands build loyalty and recognition.
3. Celebrity Cameos
Using celebrities in ads can help brands generate buzz and attract viewers. When done right, a celebrity cameo can elevate the commercial and make it more memorable.
4. Storytelling
A great Super Bowl commercial often tells a story that’s engaging and easy to follow. Whether it’s through humor, suspense, or drama, a well-told story can create a connection with the audience.
5. Memorable Catchphrases or Jingles
A catchy phrase or jingle can make a commercial unforgettable. When people start repeating the lines from a commercial, it’s a sign that the ad has made an impact.
Conclusion
Super Bowl commercials have become an integral part of the event, and over the years, we’ve seen some truly unforgettable ads that have shaped pop culture. From emotional moments to hilarious scenarios, these commercials have shown us the power of creativity and storytelling. Whether you love a good laugh or a moving message, Super Bowl ads continue to provide us with memorable moments year after year.
FAQs:
1. What was the most expensive Super Bowl commercial?
The most expensive Super Bowl commercials typically cost around $5.6 million for a 30-second spot, but this number can vary depending on the year and demand.
2. What is the most popular Super Bowl commercial of all time?
One of the most popular Super Bowl commercials of all time is the Apple “1984” ad. Its groundbreaking creativity and impact on the tech industry have made it a standout.
3. Do companies make money from Super Bowl commercials?
While the initial cost of Super Bowl ads is high, the exposure and engagement they receive can lead to a significant return on investment through increased brand recognition, sales, and social media buzz.
4. Can I watch Super Bowl commercials online?
Yes, many Super Bowl commercials are posted online after the game, either on YouTube, the brand’s official website, or social media platforms.
5. Why are Super Bowl ads so expensive?
The high cost of Super Bowl ads is due to the massive viewership. With millions of people watching, it’s one of the few opportunities for brands to reach such a large, diverse audience.
