Super Bowl Commercials 2017: Relive The Most Epic Ads

Hey guys, let's talk about something truly legendary in the world of advertising: Super Bowl Commercials 2017. Every year, the Super Bowl isn't just about the touchdown passes and incredible halftime shows; it's a massive, unspoken battleground for brands to capture our attention, and Super Bowl Commercials 2017 certainly delivered a spectacle we won't soon forget. These aren't just regular ads; they're short films, emotional rollercoasters, and comedic masterpieces, all vying for that precious watercooler conversation spot the next day. In 2017, the stakes were incredibly high, with ad spots costing millions for just 30 seconds of airtime, forcing brands to pull out all the stops to make their mark. We saw everything from poignant social commentary to laugh-out-loud humor, and a heavy dose of celebrity star power that made the commercial breaks almost as anticipated as the game itself. The year 2017 was particularly noteworthy because it happened during a period of significant social and political discourse, which many brands subtly, and sometimes not so subtly, incorporated into their messaging, making these ads feel more relevant and impactful than ever before. For many of us, tuning into the Super Bowl means getting ready for the advertising show, hoping to witness that one ad that sticks with us for weeks, months, or even years. This year's crop of commercials, the Super Bowl Commercials 2017, gave us plenty to talk about, from groundbreaking narratives to heartwarming appeals that resonated deeply with millions of viewers across the globe. It's a testament to the power of creativity and strategic marketing, showing us just how much thought and effort goes into crafting these miniature masterpieces that truly define the spirit of the Super Bowl experience. So buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into what made the Super Bowl Commercials 2017 an truly unforgettable advertising event.

Why Super Bowl Commercials Matter (Especially in 2017)

The phenomenon of Super Bowl Commercials 2017 goes far beyond mere product promotion; it's a cultural touchstone, a yearly tradition where creativity, innovation, and massive budgets collide to produce unforgettable moments. In 2017, this significance was amplified by several factors, making the commercials not just entertainment, but often a reflection of the national mood and current events. Brands understand that the Super Bowl offers an unparalleled audience reach, with tens of millions of eyes glued to their screens simultaneously. This massive viewership transforms the ad space into a unique platform where companies can make a bold statement, redefine their brand image, or simply make us laugh until our sides hurt. The investment is huge, with an average 30-second spot costing around $5 million back then, which means brands are under immense pressure to deliver something truly impactful. This high-stakes environment fosters an incredible level of creativity, pushing agencies to develop concepts that are not only memorable but also shareable across social media platforms, extending their reach far beyond game day. Think about it: how many other advertising campaigns do we actively seek out, discuss with friends, and even rewatch online? Super Bowl Commercials 2017 were designed to do exactly that. Moreover, in 2017 specifically, many advertisers embraced themes that went beyond simple product features. We saw commercials that touched on immigration, diversity, female empowerment, and environmental issues, sometimes stirring controversy but always generating conversation. This shift towards more purpose-driven advertising signaled a growing awareness among brands of their role in broader societal dialogues. It wasn't just about selling soda or cars; it was about connecting with consumers on a deeper, emotional level, using the massive Super Bowl stage to convey values and spark important discussions. The best Super Bowl Commercials 2017 weren't just ads; they were cultural artifacts, conversation starters that left a lasting impression long after the final whistle blew. This deep resonance and cultural impact are precisely why these commercials matter so much, making them an integral part of the Super Bowl experience year after year.

The Unforgettable Standouts of Super Bowl 2017

When we look back at Super Bowl Commercials 2017, certain ads immediately spring to mind, proving that even a few seconds can leave an indelible mark. These weren't just well-produced clips; they were masterclasses in storytelling, emotional appeals, and clever branding that captivated millions. Let's dive into some of the absolute gems that defined that year's advertising spectacle.

Budweiser: "Born the Hard Way"

One of the most talked-about Super Bowl Commercials 2017 was undoubtedly Budweiser's "Born the Hard Way." This ad was a beautifully crafted historical narrative, telling the immigrant story of Anheuser-Busch co-founder Adolphus Busch. It depicted his arduous journey from Germany to St. Louis in the 1850s, facing prejudice and hardship, before meeting Eberhard Anheuser and starting their iconic brewery. The commercial was released during a highly charged political climate concerning immigration, making its message of perseverance, ambition, and the American dream particularly resonant and, for some, controversial. The cinematography was stunning, the period details were meticulously rendered, and the emotional arc was powerful. Budweiser cleverly tied the struggle of its founder to the enduring spirit of its brand, suggesting that great things are born from hard work and determination. This ad didn't just sell beer; it told a compelling story that sparked a national conversation, proving that brands can engage with important societal themes while still promoting their product. It was a bold move by Budweiser, and it paid off by generating immense buzz and solidifying its place among the most memorable Super Bowl Commercials 2017.

Audi: "Daughter"

Another incredibly powerful entry in the Super Bowl Commercials 2017 lineup was Audi's "Daughter." This commercial moved viewers with its poignant message about gender equality and equal pay. It featured a father watching his daughter compete in a downhill cart race, musing about whether her worth will be judged by her gender and lamenting the wage gap that still exists. The ad ended with a strong commitment from Audi: "Audi of America is committed to equal pay for equal work. Progress is for everyone." This wasn't just about selling luxury cars; it was about aligning the brand with a progressive social value. The imagery of the determined young girl, overcoming obstacles in her race, served as a powerful metaphor for the challenges women face in society and the workplace. The emotional score and the father's heartfelt narration amplified the impact, making it a truly thought-provoking commercial. Audi successfully used its Super Bowl slot to advocate for an important cause, demonstrating that corporate responsibility can be a central part of brand messaging. "Daughter" stood out because it didn't shy away from a serious topic, delivering a message of hope and action that resonated with a wide audience and solidified its status as one of the most significant Super Bowl Commercials 2017.

84 Lumber: "The Journey"

Perhaps the most audacious and conversation-driving of the Super Bowl Commercials 2017 was 84 Lumber's "The Journey." This ad tackled the controversial issue of immigration directly and was so powerful that Fox, the network airing the Super Bowl, initially refused to broadcast the full version. The story followed a mother and daughter's difficult journey from what appeared to be Mexico, encountering various hardships and obstacles, all while seeking opportunity. The initial broadcast showed them reaching a massive, seemingly impenetrable wall, with a message to go online to see the rest of their story. The online continuation revealed that they found a tiny door in the wall, built by 84 Lumber, leading them to a hopeful new beginning. The commercial was incredibly provocative and generated immense debate, praised by some for its humanitarian message and criticized by others for its political undertones. Regardless of individual opinions, "The Journey" absolutely dominated post-game discussions. It was a masterclass in driving online engagement and showing a brand's willingness to take a stand on a deeply divisive issue. 84 Lumber, a building materials supplier, managed to position itself not just as a provider of lumber, but as a facilitator of dreams and new beginnings, even in the face of daunting challenges. This multi-platform approach, leveraging television to drive digital traffic, made "The Journey" a truly innovative and unforgettable highlight of Super Bowl Commercials 2017.

Themes and Trends: What Defined Super Bowl LVI Ads?

The tapestry of Super Bowl Commercials 2017 was woven with several distinct themes and trends that collectively defined the advertising landscape of that year. Beyond the individual standout ads, there was a palpable shift in the types of messages brands were trying to convey, largely influenced by the social and political climate. One of the most prominent trends was the embrace of socially conscious messaging. As we've seen with Budweiser, Audi, and 84 Lumber, many brands chose to take a stand on important issues like immigration, gender equality, and diversity. This wasn't just about being politically correct; it was about connecting with a growing segment of consumers who expect brands to reflect their values and contribute positively to society. These ads often aimed to inspire, provoke thought, or even challenge the status quo, moving beyond simple product features to articulate a broader sense of corporate purpose. Another significant theme was the continued dominance of celebrity endorsements, but with a twist. While stars have always graced Super Bowl ads, in 2017, they often took on more comedic or unexpected roles. Take T-Mobile's series of ads featuring Justin Bieber explaining dance history or Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart in their