Is John Lewis's Christmas Ad Too Shocking?
John Lewis is known for its heartwarming Christmas ads, often featuring heartwarming stories and adorable animals. But this year, they've gone in a slightly different direction with a more thought-provoking theme. The ad, which features a young boy who dreams of becoming an astronaut, has been met with mixed reactions, with some viewers praising its poignant message while others find it a little too shocking.
A Shift in Tone: From Heartwarming to Poignant
The ad, titled "The Beginner," follows a young boy named Nathan who is obsessed with space and dreams of becoming an astronaut. We see him building rockets, reading books about space, and gazing up at the stars. But his dream is met with a reality check when he's told that he needs to "start small" and be "realistic".
The ad takes a turn when we see Nathan struggling with the harsh realities of everyday life, showing a clear contrast between his ambitions and the perceived limitations he faces. This shift in tone has been interpreted as a poignant reflection on the challenges of pursuing dreams in a world that often encourages us to settle for less.
A Mixed Response: Heartwarming or Shocking?
The ad has generated a lot of discussion online, with some praising its powerful message about pursuing dreams and others finding it too shocking or even depressing.
Here are some of the arguments:
Those who found the ad moving:
- It resonates with the struggles of chasing dreams. Many people have experienced the feeling of being told their dreams are unrealistic, and the ad captures that sentiment authentically.
- It encourages perseverance. Despite the challenges, Nathan remains determined to achieve his dream, inspiring others to do the same.
Those who found the ad too shocking:
- The somber tone is a departure from previous ads. Many people associate John Lewis Christmas ads with a sense of joy and warmth, and this year's ad feels too serious and bleak.
- It's a stark reminder of the realities of life. The ad might be too real for some, emphasizing the difficulties of achieving big dreams and leaving some feeling disheartened.
John Lewis's Bold Choice: A New Chapter in Christmas Advertising?
Whether you find the ad moving or shocking, it's undeniable that John Lewis has taken a bold step this year. The ad challenges viewers to think beyond the traditional heartwarming Christmas messages, asking them to consider the challenges of pursuing dreams.
Will this shift in tone be a successful one? Only time will tell. However, one thing is certain: the ad has sparked a conversation and will undoubtedly be remembered as a departure from the familiar, heart-warming John Lewis Christmas tradition.