The Super Bowl draws in a large audience each year, not only because of the game itself or the halftime show but also because of the highly acclaimed commercials. I formulated a list of my favorite commercials from this year that received the highest attention based on public interest and my personal opinion. 

The Farmer’s Dog

   I believe this commercial was the best overall quality and story, and this is not an uncommon opinion. According to the USA TODAY Ad Meter, “The journey through life – scored by Lee Fields’ classic song, ‘Forever’ – took the top spot in the ratings, holding off the perennial brands to become the first-ever dog food company to win Ad Meter.” The commercial plays on emotion and touches its audience on a personal level through its illustration of life and relationships. The 60-second ad began with the scene of a little girl and her puppy. The two looked at each other as the girl said, “I’ll always take care of you.” The ad goes on through the stages of life as the girl turns into a woman and the puppy’s dark brown coat sprouts hints of gray. The shot closes as the woman, now accompanied by her husband and baby, sings to her lifelong companion, with subtitles on the screen reading, “Nothing matters more than more years together.” The brilliance of this commercial is found in its relatability. The target audience, anyone who owns or who has ever owned a pet, knows how it feels to grow with them and the pain that comes with losing them. Though this commercial’s purpose is mainly to showcase the product, it also exposes the love found within the relationship between dog and owner, and the beauty and acceptance that comes with growth. 

The Farmer’s Dog

Tubi

   In comparison to the other commercials, Tubi comes in second place in my handbook. The company provoked audience reactions with the simple tactic of trickery. It ensued panic, confusion, and anger as fans desperately scrambled to find their remotes. The commercial opened focused on commentators Greg Olsen and Kevin Burkhardt. Soon, the screen would change and act as if someone had changed the channel. The ad sparked controversy amongst its viewers. According to the New York Post, “Fans’ jaws dropped when they saw the Tubi commercial — and they weren’t happy with the video.” In my opinion, the marketing strategy was intelligent and brought light to the company. Although some were frustrated with the commercial, it promoted interest and word of mouth.

Tubi

Amazon

   This next commercial as well featured a four-legged companion. Set during the pandemic lockdown, it shows the transition from family bonding and togetherness to the transition back into the swing of things after the influx of coronavirus. Soon, with nothing to do, the dog forms a habit to tear objects up around their home. The audience then sees the family shop on Amazon for a kennel. However, when they bring the kennel home, a second dog runs out of it. The company’s use of animals factors in a sympathetic understanding of the pet and its owners. Amazon plays this to its advantage as they reveal to the audience the simplicity of the transaction and how it can help in any situation.

Amazon