100 Best Ads Of All Time
Part 8 of 10 (Ads 71–80)
This part of the collection looks at how brands use memory, familiarity and cultural shortcuts to hook attention fast. Many of these ads rely on recognition, emotion and disruption rather than explanation.
71. Walmart – Legendary Movie Cars
A clever use of iconic movie cars that instantly pull you in. The memories do the work, keeping you watching until the end.
What we can learn:
Use memories and familiarity as hooks. Recognition buys attention, especially when you only have seconds to capture it.
72. Cadbury – Eyebrows
This ad has nothing to do with chocolate and yet everyone refers to it as the Cadbury ad. Pure attention first, branding second.
What we can learn:
Attention can beat marketing. If people talk about the ad, the brand follows naturally.
73. Guinness – See the Light Billboard
A beautifully simple and creative billboard that uses a familiar phrase and applies it perfectly to the brand.
What we can learn:
Take well-known phrases and reinterpret them through your brand’s lens.
74. Nike – Dream Crazier
Yet another Nike masterclass. Inspirational, empowering and unapologetically opinionated.
What we can learn:
It’s powerful for a brand to stand for something. People feel closer to brands with a clear perspective.
75. Pepsi – Madonna (Banned Ad)
Only aired twice before being banned, which only added to its legendary status. Released before the music video, it felt cultural rather than commercial.
What we can learn:
Being close to the line can turn a campaign into legend. If you use influential people, make sure the connection feels real.
76. Singapore Government – Stop Gambling
An ad that hits parents right at their core. Powerful, uncomfortable and unforgettable, even if it later became heavily parodied.
What we can learn:
If you hit your audience at their emotional core, the message will land.
77. Paddy Power – Steward
A classic example of reactive humour. Paddy Power take an everyday football moment and turn it into a perfectly timed joke.
What we can learn:
Everyday situations can be comedy gold when your audience recognises themselves in it.
78. Netflix – Stranger Things Upside Down Billboard
Netflix flipped their famous LA billboard upside down, instantly stopping people in their tracks.
What we can learn:
Use pattern disruption. Don’t be scared of white space or doing less to stand out.
79. Liquid Death – I Prefer Small Ones
A simple clip built on innuendo that keeps you watching. Funny, uncomfortable and memorable.
What we can learn:
Innuendo works. If it fits your brand, lean into it.
80. Pepsi – Michael Jackson
“The Pepsi Generation” says everything. Positioning wrapped around one of the biggest cultural icons ever.
Fun fact, the child actor later became Carlton from Fresh Prince.
What we can learn:
Positioning matters. Think about how taglines and influential people shape how your brand is perceived.