What We Can Learn from Some of 2024's Best Ads 🤔

2024 has had some standout moments for advertising, bringing a mix of humor, nostalgia, and creativity to our screens. With big brands and clever agencies pulling out all the stops, this year’s ads have given us much more than just entertainment—they’ve provided us with some valuable lessons. Let’s take a closer look at some of 2024’s best ads, not surprisingly most coming from this year's Super Bowl LVIII, and what we can learn from them! 🚀

01. Doritos – Dina and Mita Featuring Jenna Ortega

What Happened:

Doritos made waves during the Super Bowl with their fiery adventure featuring Jenna Ortega. The ad combined humor, a sprinkle of drama, and Ortega's star power, resulting in an unforgettable commercial that kept audiences glued to their screens.

What We Can Learn:

Quickly capitalize on relevant pop culture 🌟: Doritos did a fantastic job leveraging Jenna Ortega’s popularity and mixing it with a little fiery, intense drama. By tapping into the current trends and cultural moments, brands can create ads that resonate deeply with their audience. Staying relevant and in tune with pop culture keeps your marketing fresh and engaging.

02. Uber Eats – Worth Remembering

What Happened:

Uber Eats delivered a star-studded Super Bowl ads featuring Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer, the Beckhams, Jelly Roll, and Usher, all suffering from a collective case of amnesia. The ads were humorous and full of surprises, making it one of the most popular ads of the year.

What We Can Learn:

Humor is your best friend: Uber Eats nailed it by using some creative humor and celebrity appeal to create a memorable and shareable ad. Humor helps in breaking through the noise, and when done right, it can make your ad more relatable and memorable, leading to higher engagement and a lasting impression.

03. Dunkin’ – The DunKings

What Happened:

Dunkin’ delivered a royal twist during the Super Bowl with their ad “The DunKings,” a playful take on their coffee culture. The ad was unexpected, fresh, and perfectly executed.

What We Can Learn:

Unexpected Twists Keep It Fresh: Dunkin’ kept viewers engaged by introducing a surprise element, making the ad stand out. Adding unexpected twists or elements in your campaigns can create a memorable experience and keep your audience interested.

04. State Farm – Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Spectacle

What Happened:

Arnold Schwarzenegger took center stage in an unforgettable ad that mixed some classic humor, action, and his iconic charisma. The ad featured Arnold tackling everyday problems with his signature blend of over-the-top heroism and comedy, all while promoting the product in a way that only he could.

What We Can Learn:

Again, Star Power + Humor = Impact 🌟: Leveraging a well-known personality like Arnold Schwarzenegger not only grabs attention but also creates a memorable and entertaining experience. Combining star power with humor can make your ad stand out in a crowded market, engage viewers, and leave a lasting impression that drives brand recognition and affinity.

05. CeraVe – Michael CeraVe

What Happened:

CeraVe’s Super Bowl ad featured Michael Cera in a quirky spot that highlighted the brand’s products with a clever twist. The ad played on the actor’s personality, making it both funny and relatable.

What We Can Learn:

Leverage Unique Personalities 💧: CeraVe effectively used Michael Cera’s charm to personify their brand, making the product more relatable and memorable. Aligning your campaign with the unique qualities of your spokesperson can help create a more authentic and impactful message.

06. XBOX - Cheeky Controllers

What Happened:

Xbox's ad, "Cheeky Controllers: Deadpool & Wolverine Collaboration," showcased a playful integration of Xbox controllers with characters from the Deadpool vs Wolverine movie. The ad featured the controllers exhibiting personality traits reminiscent of Deadpool’s irreverence and Wolverine’s intensity, turning them into entertaining and collectible items that resonated with both gamers and fans of the franchise.

What We Can Learn:

Character Integration Drives Hype 🎮: By embedding the unique traits of popular characters into their product, Xbox created a buzzworthy collectible that engaged both gamers and movie enthusiasts. This approach not only enhanced brand visibility but also leveraged franchise popularity to drive excitement and connection. Ads that integrate well-known characters or themes can significantly boost engagement and create a stronger emotional link with the audience.

Final Thoughts

2024 has brought us some truly creative and inspiring ads. From leveraging nostalgia and humor to embracing quirkiness and cultural relevance, these ads offer valuable lessons that we can all learn from and apply in our marketing strategies.

Which ad do you like the most? What are some other great campaigns from this year?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 💬