John Lewis Embraces Teen Spirit in 2025 Christmas Advert
In 2025, the John Lewis Christmas advert embraces themes of connection and family. This year marks the advert’s 18th anniversary, coinciding with significant changes in the UK, including numerous prime ministers and evolving cultural landscapes.
Overview of the 2025 John Lewis Christmas Advert
The 2025 rendition stands apart from previous years. It abandons whimsical characters and features a more mature narrative focused on family relationships. The advert centers on a teenage boy who struggles to connect with his father during the festive season.
Key Characters and Events
- A headphone-wearing teenage boy scrolling through his phone on Christmas.
- His father, overwhelmed, cleans up wrapping paper, discovering an unopened gift addressed to him.
- Inside the gift is a vinyl record of Alison Limerick’s popular Nineties hit “Where Love Lives”.
As the father plays the record, he is transported to his youth at a lively rave. The scene reveals a flashback where he sees his son amidst a crowded party. The two characters experience a poignant moment, highlighting their emotional distance.
Musical Element
The music shifts from the original dance version of “Where Love Lives” to an acoustic rendition by British singer-songwriter Labrinth. This change in tone symbolizes the father-son bond and evokes nostalgia.
The Advert’s Message
The emotional climax arrives when the son reverts to different ages, symbolizing a lifelong journey. The pair finally embraces in the present day, signifying a long-overdue resolution. The tagline, “If you can’t find the words, find the gift,” reinforces the importance of thoughtful gestures in communication.
Cultural Commentary
This advertisement introduces a more serious commentary on family dynamics, perhaps influenced by recent discussions surrounding masculinity. It’s a departure from John Lewis’ iconic style, which usually features adorable characters and sentimental music. This shift might surprise some loyal fans.
Despite being a break from tradition, if this advert encourages familial reconciliation or conversation, it could fulfill its purpose. John Lewis explores deeper themes this year, marking a significant evolution in its holiday storytelling approach.
