2025 super bowl ads review
Did you know that 42% of viewers tune in just for the Super Bowl ads?
This year’s game was packed with nearly 50 different brands vying for attention with their creative campaigns. Some stood out more than others—here are four that I thought, really made an impact:
HexClad’s Unidentified Frying Object Ad
As the first cookware brand to ever run a Super Bowl ad, HexClad made an impact. Their commercial featured celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and comedian Pete Davidson in a humorous sci-fi setting. Ramsay whips up a meal for an extraterrestrial at Area 51 using HexClad pans, which are humorously touted as “top secret alien cooking technology.” In the big reveal, the alien turns out to be Pete Davidson himself.
The ad was unexpected, funny, and positioned HexClad as an innovative brand while tapping into pop culture. The celebrity duo also helped drive engagement beyond just the commercial itself – people couldn’t stop talking about it online—always a win.
Reese’s Lava Big Cups Ad
Reese’s went for an absurdly funny approach in their ad promoting their new Chocolate Lava Big Cups. The spot plays on the idea that ever since Reese’s introduced this new product, people have been acting strangely—such as running toward an erupting volcano instead of away from it. The punchline? “Don’t eat lava, eat chocolate lava.”
It was ridiculous, but that’s what made it so good. No celebrities, no deep message—just pure absurdity that actually made me remember the product.
Hellmann’s When Sally Met Hellmann’s Ad
Hellmann’s leaned into nostalgia marketing by recreating the iconic deli scene from When Harry Met Sally, featuring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. The ad also introduced Sydney Sweeney, who delivered the legendary line, “I’ll have what she’s having.”
I’m usually skeptical of nostalgia marketing, but this one actually landed. It didn’t feel forced, and bringing in Sweeney was a smart way to bridge the generational gap.
Lay’s The Little Farmer Ad
Lay’s took a heartwarming approach with The Little Farmer, a commercial that follows a young boy passionately growing potatoes in his backyard. His dedication pays off when he delivers his homegrown spuds to Lay’s, tying back to the brand’s message of quality ingredients. The ad features a surprise appearance from Patrick Mahomes, reinforcing the wholesome and uplifting theme.
Not gonna lie—this one surprised me. In a sea of goofy, over-the-top Super Bowl ads, Lay’s went the emotional route, and it worked. It felt genuine and left a lasting impression.
This year’s Super Bowl ads proved to me that the best Super Bowl ads don’t always need to follow the formula. The use of humor, nostalgia, and emotional storytelling were key ingredients for success. Brands that balanced creativity with a strong connection to their audience left a lasting impression.
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