John Lewis Christmas Ad 2024: "If You Concentrate" - A Review
The John Lewis Christmas ad is a yearly tradition, a beacon of festive cheer in the otherwise chaotic build-up to the holidays. This year, they've gone for a slightly different approach with "If You Concentrate," a heartwarming tale that focuses on the magic of believing.
The Story: The ad follows a young boy named Finn who's struggling to believe in the Christmas spirit. He's surrounded by festive decorations, but the magic seems to be missing. Enter a mysterious old woman who tells him a secret: "If you concentrate, you can see the magic." Finn, initially skeptical, embarks on a journey of concentration, culminating in a beautiful, and slightly unexpected, realization.
What Works: The ad is visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography and a charming soundtrack. The story is simple yet effective, and the emotional arc is relatable, especially for those who've ever felt a little lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. The message of believing in the magic of Christmas, regardless of age, is a powerful one, and it's subtly delivered without being preachy.
What Could Be Better: While the message is positive, some viewers might find the ad a tad slow-paced. The pacing could be tightened up to create a stronger emotional impact, and the ending, while heartwarming, feels a little abrupt.
Overall: "If You Concentrate" is a decent Christmas ad, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of some of John Lewis's previous efforts. The message is well-intentioned, and the visuals are lovely, but it lacks the punch that truly memorable Christmas ads possess.
Final Verdict: A sweet, but slightly forgettable, addition to the John Lewis Christmas ad canon. It's a good watch, but it doesn't quite capture the magic of Christmas in the way its predecessors have done.