5 Great Big Game Day Commercials Turned Mini-Films

Sunday's Super Bowl had its usual lineup of great ads. Here's a list of classics from years past.

If you’re anything like me, I’m just not into Big Game Day, especially if “my” team doesn’t make it to the field.

Instead, I spend my time at the annual football-themed soiree glancing at the high-def screen every now and then, distracted by the cheesy nacho goodness on my paper plate. But, when those big-budget ads finally start rolling, I’m laser focused.

In recent years, many of the ads have almost become “mini movies,” complete with plots, grand musical scores, and two scoops of poignancy in their craftsmanship. And when I really like certain ads, I mentally “tag” faves so I can show them to my children the next day.

Here's a countdown of my 5 favorite (family-friendly) spots of all time:

5. Monster.com - When I Grow Up (1999)

The juxtaposition of seemingly idealistic children speaking about the doldrums of adult workday life put Monster.com on our collective radar for the first time. Take a look and see if it might, for just a moment, prompt you to think about changes in your daily work life.

4. Volkswagen - Wings (2014)

Although this ad is brand-new for 2014, it’s already been gaining traction on the internet. An ode to angel Clarence from the classic family holiday favorite, It’s a Wonderful Life, watch what happens to auto engineers when these German cars hit 100,000 miles.

3. Dodge Ram - God Made a Farmer (2013)

Taken from famed broadcaster Paul Harvey’s 1978 speech, So God Made a Farmer, this classic ad uses photos of real, rural American families and is moving for viewers (and listeners) of all ages. At two minutes long, this is among longest Big Game Day spot and is definitely a two-hanky experience, supporting the importance of family, work, and dedication to both.

2. Volkswagen - The Force (2011)

With almost 60 million views on VW’s YouTube page, The Force is indubitably one of the best-received Big Game Day ads in recent years. Mainly because Star Wars fans of all ages can’t resist Tiny Darth when he finally finds the Force.

1. Coca-Cola - Mean Joe Green (1979)

Although Mean Joe Green originally aired in 1979, its 1980 Big Game debut brought it the most notoriety. The classic cola commercial ranks among the best of all Big Game Day commercials, and is the source of the now famous “Hey kid, catch” line. If your kids haven’t yet seen this one, take a look to see if it still stands the test of time.