This is one of my favourite ads. Of all freaking time. Yes, still. I first wrote these words in 2020, when I was asked the same question. My opinion hasn’t changed. But that’s the point of the Immortals, right?
I was on my first placement and wading through a ton of Femcare radio ads. I was about to tell my bosses they could shove their tampon briefs up their arse, so to speak, then this came out.
I fell in love with advertising all over again. The pure joy of this ad still takes my breath away. Yes the format is dated, yes the haircuts are ridic, but look at the young Cantona's face. They’re playing for the thrill of it. It still gives me chills.
Yes, Guinness 'Surfer' cost more, Superhumans had a better track (arguably), and Cog is better choreographed… but this ad changed the game. Nike was a basketball brand before this. And, come on, I defy you to watch a better six-second opening shot than egg cracking pan.
The Immortal Awards entry system is now open and entries into competition will be accepted until September 5th 2024. All entries must be made for a commissioning client, and must have first aired, broadcast, displayed, launched or published between September 1st 2023 and August 31st 2024.
Every member of LBB is entitled to up to five entries. The full list of rules, including eligibility dates, can be found here.
If you’d like to enter the Immortal Awards but you’re not yet a member of LBB, sign up here today.
If you have any questions about The Immortal Awards or need any help with your entries, please contact awards directors Paul Monan (paulm@lbbonline.com) and Emma Wilkie (emma@lbbonline.com)