2023-02-20
Ava Marquez
Design Dispatch, New York
Rihanna's Super Bowl performance was highly anticipated, and her choice of outfits sparked conversation among viewers. The artist's ability to seamlessly blend fashion with her music made for a memorable experience.
The annual spectacle that is the Super Bowl halftime show has once again proven itself to be a platform for music, artistry, and advertising innovation. This year's event did not disappoint, with some of the most creative and engaging commercials making their debut on the world stage. From a reprise of the hit Squid Game to a heartwarming tribute to Canadian inventions, here are five of the best adverts from this year's Super Bowl.
One of the standout moments of the evening came in the form of a Squid Game-inspired commercial for Apple. The company took a bold approach by creating an ad that was almost indistinguishable from its competitors' shows during the game itself. Dressed in a red tracksuit, a young competitor was seen participating in a series of challenges inspired by the popular Netflix series. Meanwhile, a group of teenagers were shown competing against each other to become "The Next Big Thing" in the world of artificial intelligence, with Apple's AI-powered tech being the ultimate prize.
Another ad that caught the eye was from Canadian manufacturer, Husqvarna. In a heartwarming tribute to the country's rich history and natural beauty, the company released an ad showcasing its iconic gas-powered leaf blowers. Set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and vast forests, the commercial featured footage of people using Husqvarna's products to maintain their outdoor spaces. But what made this ad truly special was its message of community and connection with nature – a timely reminder that sometimes it's not just about the product itself, but about how it brings people together.
Meanwhile, Chrysler took a more playful approach with its new ad for Ram Trucks. The company decided to poke fun at the traditional "tough guy" image often associated with pickup trucks, instead opting for a humorous take on what makes these vehicles so appealing. Dressed in a bright orange jumpsuit and sporting a mullet wig, a comedian was seen attempting to "toughen up" his appearance – only to realize that Ram Trucks were the real MVPs when it came to versatility and capability.
Perhaps the most surprising commercial of the evening came from Hyundai, which took a bold risk by partnering with the popular Korean television show Squid Game. In an ad that was equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking, Hyundai used footage from the show's third season to create a commercial that spoke directly to viewers' emotions. Featuring scenes of intense competition and human drama, the ad ended on a hopeful note – one that emphasized the importance of compassion, empathy, and community in our increasingly complex world.
But what really made these commercials stand out was their ability to balance creativity with brand relevance. Whether it was Apple's edgy take on AI or Husqvarna's ode to Canadian greatness, each ad managed to distill its message down to a clear and compelling core idea – one that resonated deeply with audiences and left a lasting impression long after the game had ended. As we look back on this year's Super Bowl ads, it's clear that some of the best advertising comes from those who are willing to take risks, push boundaries, and speak truth to power in ways that inspire and provoke us all.
