The Colour (Grade) of Christmas

What would Christmas ads be without a sprinkle of VFX and a hint of grading? George Neave and Katie Dymmock from Coffee & TV's colour team give their thoughts on this year's top campaigns.

Burberry - Close Your Eyes and Think of Christmas

Juno Calypso is one of the most talented individuals on the planet so this campaign was always going to be totally gorgeous. It’s super sleek and mysterious and best of all, it does not have that in-your-face Christmas vibe. Instead it asks what Christmas is about for you, whether it’s TV, travel or dinner. The grade creates separation and definition to the different worlds featured in the commercial, making it atmospheric and generally stunning. 

ASDA - Bring Christmas Home

This campaign absolutely has the feel-good, sparkly and festive Christmas factor. No emotional storyline, it’s just about the fun. While there is a lot going on with the epic convoy of Christmas things and people moving down a snowy hill towards a house, both inside and outside shots fit perfectly with a welcoming and cosy grade, subtly highlighting wintery tones and light. Also what’s not to love about the best Christmas song ever (Darlene Love’s Christmas, Baby Please Come Home) being the soundtrack!

Sky Sports - Festive Football

For a football campaign, Festive Football has a certain warmth to it. Football’s not for everyone but this ad conveys how it can bring family and friends together to enjoy an event, and this is exactly what Christmas should be about. This warmth in tone is contrasted by the cool wintery grade, amplifying the message by directly contrasting it! 

Sainsbury’s - The Big Night

The setting of this advert provides a special charm and relatability. The brilliant combination of nerves at the start, empathy for the staring girl and the subtle comedy elements that bring everything together in a very satisfying and touching ad. The creative is complemented beautifully by the black and white grade at the beginning, later transforming into a warm, colourful pallet. Everyone says it but the plug alone is cause for a best advert nod!