Channel four publishes the #MerryDifferent Christmas advert
The spot opens with a crisis meeting where Santa's main elf reveals to an unexpected group of employees – including the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny – that his boss is considering canceling Christmas because of "everything that happens".
As the group tries to figure out how the festivities can go on, the meeting quickly dissolves before help comes from an unlikely character reminding everyone that “other things can be good”.
Directed by Jeff Low and David Kolbusz through Biscuit Filmworks, 4Creative's spot marks the first time Channel 4 has run a festive campaign. In addition to its humorous Christmas message, it reminds everyone of the station's core message, inclusivity.
"Channel 4 is here to ensure that alternative voices are heard that reflect an inclusive modern UK," said Zaid Al-Qassab, Channel 4's chief marketing officer. "We believe our family of holiday mascots are an appropriate reflection of diversity many British families doing their best in difficult circumstances this Christmas season. "
The spot follows other Channel 4 campaigns since the coronavirus pandemic began, which have approached the challenges we all face in fun, often disrespectful ways. This included the #StayAtHome campaign and #BeMoreRainbow, which encouraged everyone to show kindness to one another.
Credits:
Agency: 4Creative
ECD: Lynsey Atkin
Deputy ECD: Eoin Mclaughlin
Creative: Chris Rice, Greg Carter, Lydia Raghavan
Production company: Biscuit Filmworks UK
Directed by Jeff Low, David Kolbusz