Doritos ads have long been known for their humor, creativity, and knack for weaving relatable moments into short, impactful narratives. Among their iconic commercials, one stands out for its perfect blend of family chaos, sibling rivalry, and an unexpected twist involving an innocent family pet. This ad doesn’t just promote a snack; it crafts a story that leaves you laughing, nodding in recognition, and craving Doritos. Let’s break down this clever masterpiece, from its humor-packed plot to its genius marketing strategy.
The Storyline: Comfort, Cravings, and Chaos
The ad begins with a seemingly somber scene: a young boy mourning the loss of his beloved goldfish. His mother consoles him, handing over a bag of Doritos to lift his spirits. For a moment, it feels like a heartfelt moment of comfort.
But then, Big Sister enters the frame. Her mischievous eyes lock onto the bag of Doritos, and her cravings for those cheesy, crunchy chips override any sympathy for her brother’s plight. Instead of asking politely or sharing, she devises a sly plan. Her target? The family dog.
With a wicked grin, Big Sister makes her move, using her scheming charm to rope the clueless dog into her plot. The once-innocent scene of comfort quickly spirals into hilarious chaos as viewers are left wondering just how far she’ll go to get her share of the Doritos.
Why This Ad Stands Out
- Relatable Family Dynamics
The ad brilliantly captures the dynamics of sibling rivalry complete with the sneaky older sibling and the unsuspecting younger one. It’s a scenario anyone with siblings can instantly recognize. Add the family pet as an unwitting accomplice, and the story becomes a comedic snapshot of everyday life in a household. - Humor at Its Best
What makes this ad unforgettable is its humor. The juxtaposition of the boy’s emotional moment with his sister’s lighthearted scheming creates a perfect comedic contrast. Her mischievous smirk and the dog’s clueless involvement add layers of hilarity, making the ad impossible to forget. - Emotional Hook
The opening scene with the boy mourning his goldfish creates an emotional hook that draws viewers in. It’s a relatable moment of childhood grief, made even more poignant by his mom’s comforting gesture of offering Doritos. This emotional setup makes the sister’s antics all the more entertaining, as it shifts the tone from somber to comedic. - Snack-Centric Narrative
Doritos isn’t just a product in this ad it’s the catalyst for the entire story. The chips are central to the plot, driving the humor and mischief. By making Doritos the focus of the sibling rivalry, the ad reinforces their irresistible appeal in a way that feels natural and fun. - Visual Storytelling
The ad’s visual elements are just as impactful as its narrative. From the boy’s pouty face to the sister’s sly grin and the dog’s innocent expressions, every frame is packed with comedic detail. The vibrant red Doritos packaging pops on screen, ensuring the brand stays visually prominent throughout.
The Art of Balancing Humor and Branding
This Doritos ad is a textbook example of how to balance humor with effective branding. It keeps viewers entertained while making sure the product remains front and center. By tying the story directly to the chips, the ad creates a memorable association between Doritos and moments of comfort, fun, and mischief.
Humor also makes the ad more shareable. In the era of social media, a funny commercial can spread like wildfire, reaching millions of viewers beyond its initial airing. This ad’s clever storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments make it perfect for viral success.
The Role of Pets in Advertising
Adding the family dog to the storyline is a stroke of genius. Animals in ads often evoke feelings of warmth and familiarity, making the commercial more engaging. In this case, the dog serves as both a comedic element and a relatable figure. Its clueless participation in the sister’s scheme adds to the humor while reminding viewers of their own furry companions.
What We Can Learn from This Ad
- Keep It Relatable
The ad’s success lies in its relatability. By focusing on universal family dynamics, it connects with viewers on a personal level. - Make the Product the Star
Doritos isn’t just a prop in this ad it’s the driving force behind the story. This ensures that viewers associate the product with the ad’s humor and emotional appeal. - Use Humor to Build Connections
Humor is a powerful tool in advertising. It not only grabs attention but also creates a positive emotional connection with the brand. - Add Unexpected Twists
The sister’s mischievous turn and her involvement of the family dog add an element of surprise that keeps viewers hooked.
A Perfect Recipe for Success
This Doritos ad is a masterclass in crafting a memorable and effective commercial. By blending humor, relatability, and clever storytelling, it keeps viewers engaged while ensuring the product takes center stage. Whether it’s the mischievous sibling rivalry, the emotional opening, or the dog’s unwitting role in the chaos, every element works together to create an ad that’s as entertaining as it is effective.
