The New John Lewis Christmas Advert Receives Mixed Reactions Online
The all-new John Lewis advert has been unveiled and prompted a strong reaction throughout various social media platforms. The advert, titled 'Snapper, The Perfect Tree,' explores the almost surrealist narrative of a young boy nurturing a Venus flytrap, believing it to be a Christmas tree seedling obtained from a local market.
A Surprising Storyline for Some
The alternative Christmas tree tale, which some users have labelled 'weird', is said to have left many of its viewers moved to tears. A poignant moment transpires when the boy's Venus flytrap, named Snapper, is overlooked in favour of a traditional fir tree. Despite this, the boy remains determined that his green companion will join in the festivities.
“So what they’re saying is John Lewis is actually the Little Shop of Horrors? Love the ad though, especially the music, v funny.” - X, Twitter user.
A Broad Spectrum of Opinions
Although the advert has been received positively by many, it has elicited a variety of responses on social media. Some likened it to 'The Day of the Triffids,' a famous novel and movie about world-dominating alien plants. There were also snide remarks regarding the absence of a male adult role model, and some considered the ad weird, with one Twitter user asking, “what in the little shop of horrors is that John Lewis advert about?”
Continuing the Christmas Tradition
John Lewis, which partnered with agency Saatchi and Saatchi for the first time for this campaign, remains tight-lipped about its budget. In the past, the brand produced memorable ads such as 'Monty The Penguin', 'The Bear And The Hare', and 'Excitable Edgar' in collaboration with adam&eveDDB.
"The film celebrates themes of family and evolving traditions, and shows that a ‘perfect’ Christmas is finding joy together with loved ones, whatever your traditions." - Charlotte Lock, John Lewis customer director
The advert comes with a broad selection of related merchandise comprising a plush plant, a Christmas card with seeds, and a children’s storybook. The character Snapper will also be featured at this year’s Christmas at Kew light trail.
Retail Group Facing Challenges
In other news, the retail group has reported a loss of £59 million for the six months to July and indicated that the five-year recovery plan initiated in 2020 will require an additional two years to accomplish. The previous financial year witnessed a loss of £234 million, forcing the company to abandon its annual staff bonus.