This year’s hotly-anticipated John Lewis Christmas advert has been released, featuring Moz the Monster and marking a return to tearjerkers for the retailer.
Directed by Oscar-winning director Michel Gondry, who previously worked on Levi’s Drugstore advert and has produced videos for the Rolling Stones and Bjork, the Christmas fixture is already trending on Twitter under #MozTheMonster and #UnderTheBed.
It features seven-year old Joe who discovers the loveable Moz the Monster under his bed, a fluffy, large-nosed creature who soon becomes best friends with child.
“When I told my ex-girlfriend I was doing the next John Lewis Christmas film she said, ‘you have big shoes to fill, this John Lewis commercial must make people cry, don’t forget’,” Gondry said.
“Last week I showed it to her and she cried. Phew.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw1Y-zhQURU
Manchester-based band Elbow provide the soundtrack with a cover of The Beatles’ Golden Slumbers, adding to the emotional theme of the advert following last year’s jovial Buster the Boxer advert.
Alongside the advert’s release, the department store will feature “the world’s first farting and snoring window” at its London flagship store where shoppers can see Moz and Joe playing around the house.
Trust me, no one wants to know what's under my bed. #UnderTheBed
— John Lewis (@johnlewis) November 7, 2017
Ironically #UnderTheBed is where the eternally patient @johnlewis is planning to spend the coming weeks of @johnlewisretail advert hysteria.
— Simon Wright (@Simon01476) November 6, 2017
Merchandise including Moz mugs and cuddle toys will be available, with some of the proceeds going to charity Bernardo’s.
A recording of English actress Sally Philips reading the Moz The Monster story will also be available for download from the retailer’s website.
John Lewis customer director Craig Inglis said: “This year’s Christmas campaign brings to life the power of children’s imaginations and the joy of great friendships.
“Moz and Joe’s story is magical and heart-warming and I’m sure it will be loved by all of our customers, young and old.”
A price tag for the advert has not been disclosed, but it is reportedly in line with previous years meaning it set the retailer back around £7 million, including TV slots.
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