John Lewis Christmas Ad Slammed by Viewers as 'Chaotic and Worst One Yet'
- New John Lewis ad, "The Gifting Hour," sparks mixed reactions for being "confusing"
- Two-minute ad follows Sally reminiscing while searching for a gift for her sister
- Viewers praise the music but miss "the sparkle" of past adverts
John Lewis has unveiled its much-anticipated Christmas advert, "The Gifting Hour," but not all viewers are impressed. The two-minute ad, created by Saatchi & Saatchi, features Sally, a woman frantically searching for a last-minute gift for her sister. As she rushes through the store, Sally reflects on Christmases past, revisiting heartfelt memories with her sister Lauren and their mum.
Despite its nostalgic theme, many viewers feel this year’s advert falls flat. One user on X (formerly Twitter) called it "chaotic, confusing, and the worst one yet." Another commented, "It’s okay, but lacks the sparkle of past John Lewis adverts."
The ad's music—a 90s track—received some praise, but it wasn’t enough to win over critics. "Confused with the advert, but what a great tune," said one viewer.
Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, remarked: “The magic of a great Christmas advert lies in its ability to tug at the heartstrings. While John Lewis aimed for nostalgia, it seems they’ve missed the mark for some viewers this year.
One thing I'd say, is that I read a BBC news article on this year's supermarket Christmas adverts, and if I hadn't have known that it was a sister reminiscing on their childhood so she could find the perfect gift for her sister, I don't think it would have been clear within the first 30 seconds. Didn't even notice the music choice, will have to use my ears next time it's on.
Not their best,but the one with the Robin is heartwarming,the song is great,all proceeds go to charity for lonely people over Christmas.
The adverts are all bad this year probably the best is
ALDI and that’s not as good as previous years.
John Lewis is indeed weird and hectic very bad by the
Director and not only no Santa no Men at all,
I thought the snog on the bed bit was a lady and a
Chinese boy but people are saying that was a short haired
girl? anyway it’s a whirlwind of weird and I was fond of the
lion, witch and the wardrobe growing up but that part
can’t save it it’s just underwhelming and weird yuk.
The TV version now has the middle bit cut out/removed
( The bit with two people on the bed )
I've seen a few when visiting my mother who lives nearby. I don't have a TV licence myself. I find them all a bit irritating and god knows what I'd be like if I had to see them all the time. I guess there are fringe benefits to not having access to live tv. I use adblockers where possible to prevent seeing adverts when streaming.