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- Ads that make you want to unplug—literally and metaphorically
Ads that make you want to unplug—literally and metaphorically
This week’s swipe file serves up bourbon metaphors, sleepy Škodas, and ads that sneak in activism or a Big Mac—depending on your mood. Dive in for bold, cheeky brilliance.

Welcome back to your daily marketing swipe file. The best ads, served fresh daily, and as tasty as your favorite slice of pepperoni pizza. 🍕 Let’s dig in.

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Now Streaming
What’s happening: A woman and her dog gently glide across a river in a canoe, surrounded by lush flora, a golden sunset, and the kind of calm you can’t click into. The copy? “Now Streaming.” But forget Netflix—this stream’s got dragonflies, silence, and soul. Hashtag: #ShareTheLex.

Why it’s awesome: This is pun-based tourism at its smartest. It hijacks a digital phrase (“now streaming”) and reclaims it for the analog world. The message: real life is still the best content out there. The vibrant, retro-style artwork softens the call-to-action into a mood. It's not trying to shout at you—it’s gently pulling you in like a paddle on water. You don’t just read the ad; you feel the escape it’s offering.
It’s Time to Unplug
What’s happening: Golden bourbon gushes from a barrel tap, caught mid-stream as a hand reaches in with a glass to catch the flow. The bold headline reads “It’s time to unplug”—but the punchline is literal. Someone just unplugged a bourbon barrel. Welcome to Lexington, Kentucky, where unwinding isn’t just encouraged, it’s distilled.

Why it’s awesome: This ad nails the double entendre. “Unplug” hits as both a call to ditch your devices and a clever nod to uncorking the spirit of Kentucky—literally. It's got texture, motion, and metaphor all flowing in sync. It doesn’t shout about tourism; it seduces you with amber warmth and Southern charm. It’s bold without being loud, and smooth like the product it features. Just like the bourbon, it leaves a good burn.

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So You Can Finally Get Some Proper Sleep
What’s happening: A woman is absolutely out cold in the backseat—head tilted, mouth wide open, fully zonked. Sunlight washes over her like a spotlight on her epic nap. The tagline? “So you can finally get some proper sleep.” It's for Škoda's Sleep Package, and it's painfully real.

Why it’s awesome: This ad breaks the polished mold and leans into reality. It doesn’t show serene, Instagram-worthy sleep—it shows what real backseat comfort actually looks like. And that’s exactly why it works. It’s self-aware, unfiltered, and damn funny. Škoda isn't selling luxury—they’re selling relief. If you've ever tried to nap in a car, this ad speaks your truth. Bonus points for keeping the visual as raw as the experience.
Beautiful Ningaloo
What’s happening: At first glance, it’s a postcard-perfect poster: turquoise waters, sandy shores, happy families, and that dreamy vintage tourism art style. But wait—there’s a giant industrial pipeline crawling across the beach and into the sea, flanked by ships. The message at the bottom snaps the illusion: “Stop Subsea 7 – Save Exmouth Gulf.” This is a protest in disguise.

Why it’s awesome: This ad weaponizes aesthetics to make a point. It lures you in with warmth and nostalgia, then hits you with cognitive dissonance. The clash between idyllic scenery and industrial destruction isn’t accidental—it’s strategic. It tells you what’s at stake and what’s being lost. The typography and design scream “vacation,” but the copy screams “wake up.” It's protest art masquerading as propaganda, and it’s genius.

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Happy Moving Day
What’s happening: The back of a moving truck is packed to the brim with furniture, boxes, and personal stuff—except it's not just random cargo. Take a closer look. The couch is a burger bun. The blanket? Cheese. That throw pillow? Definitely a tomato slice. The whole thing is a massive visual pun: a hidden burger disguised as moving-day chaos. Tucked at the bottom is the line: “Happy Moving Day – McDelivery.”

Why it’s awesome: This ad plays the long game. At first glance, it’s just a relatable moving scene. But the more you stare, the more genius it becomes. It rewards attention and turns an everyday struggle (moving) into an unexpected McCraving. It’s playful, clever, and surprisingly warm. Instead of pushing product, it shares a moment—and offers to bring the comfort food straight to you. Smart, cheeky, and oh-so-delicious in the details.

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That’s a wrap! We hope these bold, fun, and inspiring ads gave you your daily dose of creative energy. See you soon for some more best-in-class marketing goodies!
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