Super Bowl Ads: The Good, The Bad, and the “What‑on‑earth‑is‑that?”
Who actually watches the whole game? For many, it’s just a parking lot of ad‑time—think pop‑corn and a side of short‑sighted laughs. Super Bowl LV (2021) is no different, with a lineup that’s as warm‑to‑cold as a Trust‑Fall exercise.
Who’s on the Block?
Picture this: the iconic Budweiser Clydesdale horses strutting onto the screen. They’re not newbies; these hunk‑of‑horses were all the rage back in the 1930s when the booze‑gate got lifted. The brewery’s CEO was gifted a herd by his son, and they ran beer carts right down the block. Fast‑forward: they’re now TV royalty, starring in ads that are as famous as their moo‑mood.
- 2015 — A heart‑warming pup who’s literally a puppy slow‑walks between “Happier, Together.” The ad drops a tear‑jerker in the middle of a row of horses.
- Every year, these horses slap the screen with a subtle “We’ll still be here” vibe, whether they’re the visual center or just in the background, soaking in the ad‑business spotlight.
What Sets the Stage
In the after‑game ritual of ad‑review, we list the 15 best and 15 worst commercials that defined the Super Bowl aesthetic. Some deliver the jugular & the giggle, while others leave you wondering why a brand thinks a three‑minute ad is the “big deal.” But one truth stays: ads are the part of the game fans expect to rebuff or embrace, no matter how long the flip‑book.
Super Bowl Skittles: Why Your Bowl Won’t Be Stocked With Singing Horses
Hold onto your popcorn, because the big game’s no longer a bit‑horses extravaganza. Budweiser dropped a bombshell in late January: after 37 years of scouring the Super Bowl for an ad slot, they’re taking a break.
Why the Great Hustle Has Stalled
Rather than flashing fancy commercials, Bud’s VP of marketing Monica Rustgi explained that this year the brand is putting its cash toward the real deal—boosting COVID‑19 vaccine awareness. “We’re helping folks get back into the groove with restaurants and bars,” she said. “And the best way is to give exposure to the vaccine.”
Everywhere Else is Doing the Same
- Coca‑Cola
- Pepsi
- Hyundai
These big names are all pulling their ads out of the Super Bowl too. That’s probably not a sign that the ads will crash. Instead, it’s a chance for Billboard and other smaller campaigns to up their game—and maybe even earn the iconic status.
Want to Remember the Rivals? Watch the Best & Worst Super Bowl Ads!
Even though the horses (and the pubs) are taking a step back, we’ve got an awesome gallery to see the top (and bottom) commercials ever aired. (Oh, and we’ve got the ImageGallery impression from the page… but you don’t need that, we’ll just use the real stuff.)
Worst: Dodge Ram And Martin Luther King Jr.?
When the Dodge Ram Meets Activist Chatter
Picture this: A 2018 commercial that tried to fuse the punchy voice of a social justice activist with the everyday dream of buying a truck. The result? A vehicle ad that felt more like a motivational speech than a sales pitch.
Why It Fell Flat
- Mixed Messages – Halfway through the short film, the narrator switches from delivering rallying slogans to pitching a good ol’ Dodge Ram. It’s like hearing a march and then, out of nowhere, a sales tax receipt.
- Audience Mismatch – Fans of activism expect substance, not a shiny truck graphic. Viewers were left wondering if the ad was from a car manufacturer or an activist organization.
- Timing Was Not on Point – Dropping a heavy political message in a commercial slot meant to be light and uplifting can feel jarring. The overall tone, midway between “you’re our hero” and “buy this dump”, stumped many viewers.
What the Marketing Team Probably Thought
“Set the tone of empowerment. The truck is an emblem of strength.”
Almost like they decided that every commercial could use a splash of courage and a dash of social progress. It makes sense—after all, trucks are tough—but the execution leaned too hard on the theatrical side.
Takeaway for Car Advertisers
Less is More when mixing impact and sales. If you want to inspire people, pair the right narrative with the right product, but keep the context clear. Toss a bold slogan, but let the truck do the talking.
In short, the 2018 Dodge Ram ad reminded us that branding is balanced. Trying to sell a vehicle while championing social justice in the same breath just didn’t hit the mark—some might say the truck tried too hard to pull the weight of a reform movement. A lesson in the art of staying singularly focused.
Best: Apple’s 1984 Ad.
Remember the Macintosh ad that shook the world?
Before iPods, iPads, and even the first iPhone
- It was the first time we saw a computer on the big screen – no, not a flickering blue logo.
- “The computer for the rest of us” became a rallying cry for anyone curious about tech.
- Humor and curiosity was the secret sauce that made the spot unforgettable.
- That ad set a new benchmark for marketing – advertisers tried, but nobody could top it.
Why it still feels fresh today
Think of the 90s‑era fitbit: a screen that told the story of a child’s curiosity, a sturdy office, and a gentle, motivational voice. In a world where people wanted to know how it works – not just “buy the gadget” – Apple delivered a narrative that felt human instead of corporate. That’s why it still made people go, “Whoa, that’s legit.”
The aftermath
After that first masterpiece, Apple’s studio had a tough time – the next year’s campaign wasn’t almost as legendary. Marketing firms scratched their heads, rewritten strategies, and many say the original hype just couldn’t be matched. It’s a classic case of a radiant star that no one can eclipse.
Worst: Apple’s Lemmings Commercial …
Apple’s “Office Overcliff” Ad: How a Cliff Could Be Their Newest Selling Point
So the media plays fancy, the product is shiny, but the message? Ouch. Apple tried to liven up their commercial by sending a squad of office drones into freefall. “Better not lose that office feeling?” you might ask.
Why the Ad Went Down the Drain
- Misaligned Theme: It was raining out of a literal cliff; no one shopping for phones wants to hear about suicide.
- Audience Disconnect: The ad cut through the usual “classy Apple” vibe and jumped straight into campy literalism – not exactly the sweet spot for the tech crowd.
- Negative Word‑of‑mouth: Word spread faster than the drones could fall. Pigeons can now easily reproduce this fiasco!
What We Can Learn
When you’re packaging tech, remember:
Lightning first. Pun intended.
- Stick to innovation, not cliffs.
- Don’t confuse your call‑to‑action with a literal free‑fall.
- Always double‑check if the theme vibes with your brand personality.
The Takeaway
Apple’s ad was a classic case of “you can’t win ’em all.”
Perhaps next time they’ll opt for a gentle glide over a majestic mountain instead of a bumpy descent.
Best: “Hey Kid, Catch!”
Remember That Super‑Bowl 1980 Ad?
Picture this: the Super Bowl XIV rolls around in 1980, and the screen lights up with a classic from Lisa Frank shoes, featuring none other than the legendary “Mean” Joe Greene from the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Why It Stands Out
- It aired right in the heart of the big‑game broadcast, grabbing millions of viewers.
- Joe Greene’s cool swagger turned a simple shoe ad into a memorable moment.
- The commercial earned a Clio Award for being one of the top TV spots of 1979.
In a Few Words
That ad was not just a marketing win—it was a cultural touchstone, bringing classic NFL charisma into every living room that night.
Worst: This Sad Robot …
When a Robot Skips the Bridge: Why GM’s 2007 Ad Makes Us Think Twice About Buying Cars
It wasn’t just a glitch, it was a backwards‑step drama
Picture this: a fresh‑new assembly‑line robot, all shiny chrome and state‑of‑the‑art sensors, gets a little too clever on a bridge and decides to take an unexpected plunge. That’s the reality of the infamous 2007 General Motors ad that has everyone asking, “Did they forget the safety script?”
Instead of showcasing the slickness of a modern vehicle, the ad lands on the very uncomfortable note that no one should ever jump off cliffs—even a machine. How’s that for a mood killer?
What makes us pull away from the purchase?
- It’s massively depressing—like the product’s ‘exit theory’ is actually a literal danger.
- We’re on the verge of giving this robot a hug, not a showroom treatise.
- And let’s face it, Alexa never feels this way—she’s probably too comfortable on the sofa.
Key takeaways for next time you watch a car advert
1. Read the fine print —it might let your subconscious scream “Caution: Bridge Danger.”
2. Humor saves the day—the ad attempted it, but it didn’t have the right punch. A robot that’s a mirror of our clumsy moments could truly resonate.
3. Emotion wins over gadgets—this ad tried to ship emotion, and ended up delivering ones that are more daytime soap than showroom innovation.
Bottom line: Thanks to this clip, we’re less excited about new cars and more keen to give a big robot hug (or a sarcastic walk‑away) instead of a purchase. If you’re setting out to buy a car, maybe try to find an ad that’s a bit less stunt‑y and a little less scary!
Best: Betty White. Period.
Betty White’s 2010 “Snack‑tastic Gridiron” Ad
Picture this: the queen of sitcoms, Betty White, knee‑deep in a game of football, flailing like a kindergarten kid on a first‑day bouncy castle. And just when you think she’s lost the game, a shiny Snickers pops up, and boom—she shifts into a complete football wizard.
Three Key Scenes
- Betty at the Field: She’s wobbling, swearing, and her teammates are rolling their eyes. The camera zooms in for a classic “Bruh, you dropping the ball again?” moment.
- The Snack Miracle: A teammate hands her a Snickers, and suddenly she’s wearing a scrimmage suit and dropping passes like a pro.
- Spin‑The‑Commentary: A fellow player whispers, “You’re playing like Betty White out there,” and she snaps back, “That’s not what your girlfriend says.” Gymnastic wit
Why the Ad Still Makes Us Laugh
It’s the classic “a little sugar goes a long way” joke, wrapped around a celebrity we love. The humor comes from the absurdity of a sweet bar turning a lady into a football star, and the playful banter that reminds us everyone has that secret cheerleader in them.
Takeaway
When life throws you into the end zone and you’re feeling like a total failure, remember: A Snickers might just be the cheat code you need to conquer the next play—or at least get a good laugh.
Worst: This SalesGenie Ad.
The Unexpected Upset: A Commercial That Overstepped
Take a moment and hit that play button
Ever watched a commercial that just… left you shaking your head? That’s exactly what happened with this new spot. The clip is short, the message is meant to be clever, but the reality? It landed hard on the “racist” tab.
Let’s break it down:
- Reinforced Stereotypes: The visual cues and cultural references feel like a throwback to outdated tropes, and that’s not going to sit well.
- A pitfall in humor: A joke that falls flat can end up sounding like a punchline that targets a group rather than everyone.
- Audience reaction: People watching and discussing it on social channels are echoing the same sentiment—this is uncomfortable and out of place.
The Bottom Line
It’s a reminder that a seemingly harmless ad can easily cross sensitive lines if it relies on old stereotypes or just misfires in the humor department. The lesson? Think carefully before you publish.
Best: Literally Any Budweiser Clydesdale Ad!
Remember Those Iconic Ads?
We’ve all been through the classic commercial shuffle. Some made us chuckle, others made us reach for the tissues—some even left us wondering who’s cutting onions in here?
Top 5 Cold‑Hard Emotional Sparks
- “Puppy Love” (2014) – Suddenly, a tiny furball turns the entire world into a rom-com. One look, one wag, and crying takes over.
- Robot Friendly – Instead of playful batteries, we got a sad machine that reminded us we’re never free from tears of tech.
- Onion Riddle – Whoever dreamed up a commercial where onions supposedly convey emotions? Not us, but our conscience sure was hit.
- Actual Ice Cream – A simple scoop of chocolate kaleidoscopes into the soul; never the same again.
- Fighting Apple Trees – A chaotic orchard drama that made humanity’s inner censor wish for a knife.
Why We Bawl (Even if Only Briefly)
It’s all context with context: happy, hopeful, or downright melancholy—the minds we’re playing around with aren’t even official. Ad drama really? Lmao.
Bottom Line
So next time a commercial drops your newsfeed, don’t forget whether it’s outrage, a puppy, or onions that’s lighting up the world. Let’s grin amicably and share the memes—one tear at a time.
Worst: LifeMinders.com’s “The Worst Commercial” Ad.
When a Funny Ad Misses the Mark
We get it—marketing teams love a laugh, but this commercial fell flat. The punchline? The “title lied” line was about as convincing as a cat pretending not to be a furry beast.
What Went Wrong?
- Music Overkill: Yeah, that relentless soundtrack started as a charm and ended up like a doorbell that never stops ringing.
- Unclear Humor: The joke felt like a meme that doesn’t sit right on a meme page.
- Audience Disconnect: What resonated with the creative squad conveniently didn’t hit home with viewers.
What to Take Away
If you’re planning a spot that’s meant to tickle, make sure the timing is tight and the punchlines land where you expect. A mottled soundtrack can drown even the best gags. And remember—humor is a two‑way street; calories are burned and laughs earned only if each side gets the heck out of the car.
Best: “Where’s the Beef?”
Wendy’s 1984 Fame: From Fast‑Food Screens to Political Debates
The Cookie‑Crunching Classic
Back in ’84, Wendy’s dropped a quick, quirky promo that did more than just taste good—it turned the Fast‑Food Hall of Fame.
What Made It Iconic?
- Bold, almost rebellious “Bite into something that’s actually real” – a phrase that stuck in the minds of viewers as quickly as a twin‑topping bacon burger.
- A playful jingle that felt like a slap in the face to the bland, scripted ads of the time.
- Totally minimal graphics, letting the bold verbal punch do all the heavy lifting.
From Kitchen to Scrum‑Hall
Surprisingly, that single line snuck its way into a televised debate on the eve of a U.S. presidential election. Why? Because politics loves to tap into pop culture, especially when it’s hot and ready to eat.
Did It Bite Even Harder?
- “No, it didn’t” – the phrase is so short, it’s almost like a snack that doesn’t require a fork.
- Humor? Check. It’s the paradox of a quick bite that’s still biting back.
- Emotion? Definitely. The line loops back into countless memes and memes about how quick your political decisions can be.
Bottom Line
The Wendy’s ad from ’84 wasn’t about perfect mozzarella or extra onions. It was about the power of a quick punch of real‑talk that could even throw a political debate into the spotlight. That’s what makes the ad iconic, not just great.
Worst: Literally Any GoDaddy Commercial.
When the Bad Stuff Starts
Whoever started the “always bad” vibe in these shows, you’re definitely going to catch the eye-rolls.
Why You’ll Want to Hit the Bathroom
- Timing Matters: If the calamity hits right during the Super Bowl, that’s the perfect cue to step out.
- Badness Level: It’s so bad that you’re forced to leave the chair to avoid a cringe‑fest.
- Just Don’t Stick Around: Even the most dedicated fans will get that “let’s go” signal.
Feelings? Oh, The Feelings!
It’s almost a mix of embarrassed sighs and hushed “not again” whispers. A bout of cabin fever saves you from the urge to regret binge‑watching the entire season.
A Quick Takeaway
When the show is terrible, the best maneuver is a quick bathroom break. Trust us, you’ll thank us later.
Best: Tide Ad?
When Tide Turns Every Ad Into a TV Binge
Imagine stepping into a room where every splash, swirl, and scatter is a Tide ad. Sounds like a prank? Nope, it’s the reality we’ve got thanks to a rock‑star commercial from 2018 featuring none other than David Harbour from Stranger Things.
Why David Harbour Makes Tide Ads Lit
- He’s got that “hero” aura that turns laundry day into a mission.
- His “keeps on, keeps on” vibe fits with Tide’s promise of lasting, strong clean.
- The drama? It’s a refreshing twist—no more dull detergent commercials.
A Quick Breakdown of the 2018 Classic
- Opening shot: dusty, grimy clothes—obviously a real-life struggle.
- Enter David Harbour, mold‑free, unafraid of the grime.
- He brings his crew, tackles stains with relentless vigor.
- Final reveal: whites sparkle, colors stay vibrant—no cape required.
Can Tide Beat This?
Definitely a tough fight. The ad’s two‑hour feel, the show‑stopping heroism, the almost binge-worthy storytelling—it’s almost too good for repeat.
But hey, it’s not all about beating the record. It’s about learning how creative hype turns a simple brand into an icon, and the fact that, in the end, every wash can feel like saving the world—one dirty shirt at a time.
Bottom Line
Every Tide ad feels like a mini‑mini‑episode of Stranger Things, thanks to David Harbour’s 2018 micro‑movie. Geeky, funny, emotion‑charged—if Tide wants to top it, they’ll need an even bigger, huggit‑louder storyline. Until then, we’ll keep dancing in our clean clothes, cheering on the ever‑cool Tide wizard.
Worst: Groupon’s 2011 “Tibet” Ad.
Tinh-Teasing: A Fresh Blow to Tibetan Refugees
Who knew a marketing copy could feel like a middle‑finger to the Tibetan diaspora? The latest ad fiasco has viewers throwing a collective eye‑roll and rallying against what feels like a slap‑down on refugees’ resilience.
Why It Missed the Mark
- Insensitive tone – The copy belittles the ongoing struggles, turning a heartfelt crisis into a sales pitch.
- Misjudged audience – People want authenticity, not a slick exploitation of their pain.
- Backlash hits hard – Social media users spouted their outrage, and the brand lost ground quickly.
What’s the Bottom Line?
When a company dips its toes in refugee issues, it has to tread carefully. Leveraging real hardship for profit is a recipe for ridicule—and a reminder that authenticity beats slickness every time.
Best: The Force, Baby!
Hey There, Force Fanatics!
Ever stumble across an opening crawl that looks more like a question than a statement? If you’ve watched any Star Wars flick, you’ve probably day‑dreamed of flexing your own Jedi muscle. Well, a miracle – or a prank? – has just been served up on your feed.
It’s a Young‑Wizard, Not a Sith
Picture a little rebel in a hoodie, eyes wide, clutching a foam‑toy lightsaber. Under a dim spotlight, he shouts, “May the vibes be with me!” The camera zooms in, and the lightsaber… turns out to be a walking deck of cards. And the secret real twist? The kid’s “Force” is a table‑top Rock‑Paper‑Scissors strategy, not an actual power grab. Genius!
Why This Clip is Pure Gold
- Unexpected: It turns a classic trope on its head by showing an ordinary toy do the job.
- Relatability: Kids watching now can instantly see themselves do the same – no cranial crystal needed!
- Humor: That sudden, face‑palm moment where the lightsaber flails out of a card holder is unforgettable.
The Hidden Message
It’s not about Jedi lore – it’s about doing something fun while channeling your inner “Power Player.” Grab a deck, hop in a game room, and remember: even if the Force isn’t real, laughter is.
Wrap‑Up
So, if your “May the Force be with you” has ever floated off into a keyboard‑only daydream, let this short video remind you that you can have fun without a galaxy’s worth of training. Just shuffle a deck, charge your card‑based lightsaber, and let the victory hit your screen. Casual courage awaits!
Worst: Nationwide’s 2015 … Deceased Child Commercial?
Nationwide’s Meme‑Fest: The Ad That Backfired
Nationwide tried to go bold—think “shocking‑shock” vibes—hoping to grab your attention the hard way. Instead of a buzz, the clip sparked a meme‑storm faster than you can say “double‑tap.”
What Went Wrong?
- They aimed for a jarring visual, but the satire landed in the meme realm.
- Audience reaction = “Did you seriously shoot a car into the sun?”—completely off‑target.
- Instantly virality from the meme community, not marketing reviewers.
The Takeaway (for Nationwide and Us)
Marketing isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all. Read the room before you hit “publish.” Even an ad that’s supposedly “eye‑popping” can feel like a joke if it’s out of sync with your audience’s humor.
Lesson? Keep the quirky part sportable, and aim for genuine engagement—no meme‑flashy mishaps.