Once upon a time, Super Bowl ads were far from the spectacle that they are today, however, all that changed on January 22, 1984. As viewers tuned in to the big game on CBS, they were met with a groundbreaking commercial that stood out from the others. In the midst of regular ads for everyday products, a dystopian scene appeared on the TV sets of many. This was Apple’s famous “1984” ad, which not only marked a turning point for the Super Bowl commercial experience but has persevered as one of the greatest ads of all time. With striking imagery and powerful symbolism, the commercial introduced the Macintosh computer and revolutionized personal computing.
However, behind the iconic commercial, there was a purpose; Apple was in need of a boost, having been surpassed by competitors in the personal computing market. By introducing the Macintosh, the company sought to create a user-friendly and accessible personal computer that would resonate with the masses. The ad ingeniously conveyed this message by using powerful imagery and themes that were relatable and captivating for the audience. Even years later, the commercial still provides a compelling narrative and holds significance in today’s society.
The lasting legacy of the “1984” advertisement cannot be understated. The imagery and messages from the commercial still resonate with modern audiences, particularly with the ongoing discussions around technology and privacy. By presenting two opposing views of technology – one oppressive and one liberating – the ad’s themes continue to serve as a powerful reminder of the broader conflicts surrounding usage of technology today. Even in 2022, this historic ad still sparks important conversations on the impact of technology on society and the influence of established powers versus that of innovation.
