The Top 5 Ads from the 2012 Superbowl

In an overall disappointing year, for Superbowl advertising, a few rose above the others. Here’s a look at Gas Powered Shark’s top 5 ads from last night’s Superbowl…

5. Doritos – "Man's Best Friend"

A clever approach positioning Doritos as good bribe material. Short, and to the point, it didn't oversell the joke or try to do too much, and placed it's product in the spotlight. All ads should be so mindful of these things.

4. Acura - "Transactions"

A little hokey…a little long…but the reason this ad worked was because it positioned Seinfeld exactly how we see him: an uber-rich egomaniac who will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. And he still loses. I do wish they would have spent a little more time with the car in the beginning, but the hero shot of it at least made it look cool and new and exciting.

3. Career Builder – "Business Trip"

The monkeys are back, this time causing havoc on a business trip. It works especially well if you aren't tired of monkeys acting like humans. I don't think they've overstayed their welcome, but I might suggest Career Builder try a different direction for 2013.

The toothbrush joke was a nice touch.

2. Kia – "A Dream Car. For Real Life."

Ignoring the fact that the song Kia chose here is about surviving a heroin overdose, it's a great ad. Goofy visuals, cameos who don't overstay their welcome, and an ending that ties in nicely with the beginning. And really...whose awesome dreams aren't scored by Motley Crue?

1. Chevy – "2012"

Current pop culture reference? Check.

Old school pop culture reference? Check.

Clever competitive dig? Check.

Barry Manilow? Check.

Looks like that's all it takes to run a successful Super Bowl ad.