Ford’s 2017 Super Bowl commercial leaves many people (and a cat) stuck

When you think about the cost of the average Super Bowl commercial, it’s pretty remarkable that Ford decided to run an ad during the big game that is almost two minutes long. Sure, we know that they’ve got the money for it, but it’s still a long commercial, especially given that this is an ad that could’ve probably been done in half the time.

The premiere is easy to describe — they show you a whole variety of people who are “stuck” in a wide array of situations, and then they promote that their technology can help to get you un-stuck from many problems that you run into in life. They want you to think that the company is really working hard in order to generate the right way forward featuring a wide array of their products.

What worked – Some of the situations that you see, including the guy trapped under the door or the guy stuck on the ski lift (see above), are good for some moderate amusement. While it’s not entirely clear what it is that you’re watching through most of the sketch, at least Ford does a nice job by the end of it making it clear as to what exactly is actually going on. It makes some sense, and it generates a few laughs in the process.

What didn’t – Did we really need to see the poor cat with a box stuck on its head? This seems like one of those things that isn’t as funny when you think about how freaked-out a cat would actually be in this situation. Beyond that, we also do think that this commercial doesn’t need to be anywhere near as long as it is. Ford could’ve saved a good bit of money here easily.

Overall – Other than the cat this is a pleasant-enough ad that does showcase what it is that Ford is trying to sell. Unfortunately, there’s still a sheen about it that feels fairly generic and predictable. It’s silly-funny at times, but it’s not altogether edgy or interesting. You wouldn’t want to watch it more than this one occasion. Grade: B-.

What did you think of the ad? Share now in the comments, and head over here to get some other commercials from the big game! (Photo: Ford.)