.rising's favourite ads of 2014

2015 is round the corner, so out come the end of year lists you’ve all been waiting for. First up: Our favourite adverts of 2014! The editorial team here at dot rising have picked the ads that have stood out and why – from the funny, to sentimental, to the totally corny. Enjoy.

Bud Light’s Super Bowl commercial – Up for whatever

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LA6SO3-cyYU

“I love this ad because it perfectly reflects an average spontaneous Saturday night out.” – Huw Jenkins

Always, #LikeAGirl

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjJQBjWYDTs

“This advert gave me CHILLS because it shows how much negative stereotypes can influence people. It shows how women should take ownership of the commonly used phrase “Like a girl” but turn it into a reference to doing something really well, rather than doing something badly.” – Rebecca Horsley

Nike, Winner Stays

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XviR7esUvo

“The 2014 FIFA World Cup was one of the most talked about events of the year across social media, with a global audience of billions –and as it drew closer Nike launched their “Winner Stays” ad campaign. A full 5 min version was uploaded to YouTube, which manages to capture what it is like having a kickabout at the park with your mates, imagining to be the world’s best players on the biggest stage. I’m sure this ad brought a smile to the face of many football fans; with a great combination of humour and action it was my favourite advert of 2014.” – James Perkins

“This advert is from Nike’s campaign called ‘Risk Everything’ – It is every boys dream to go from having a kick about with their mates in the streets to playing inside a massive stadium with their idols in front of thousands of supporters and millions of viewers. Many young keen wannabe footballers can relate to this advert and they could also use this advert as inspiration, especially as this advert was released just before the World Cup.” – Matt Thoma

TVC Thai Life Insurance, Unsung Hero

“Celebrating the impact of everyday acts of kindness, Thai Life Insurance’s beautifully shot ode to selflessness is more short film than advert. I never thought a commercial would bring a tear to my eye, but this one does. Every time.” – Lindsey Kennedy 

Sainsbury’s Christmas ad

“I’ve chosen this ad because it raised an interesting debate about the ethics of advertising, which I think is always needed. Although the ad, based on real events, is undeniably touching – and the Sainsbury’s chocolate bar featured makes 50p per purchase for the Royal British Legion – some viewers felt that the ad was a fictitious attempt to glamorise war for commercial gain. Despite having my own opinions about the ad, I enjoyed hearing both sides and debating with my colleagues about its motivations.” – Leighann Morris

Haribo, Starmix 

“Let’s go with this Haribo for being so awkward… And we love sweeties.” – Lucy England