10 Remarkable Video Ad Campaigns (And Why They Worked)
Today, brands aren’t just competing for attention — they’re competing for emotion. With video ad spending projected to reach over $207.5 billion in 2025, it’s clear that brands are recognizing the power of video marketing campaigns.
So, what separates the best video marketing examples from the forgettable ones? Let’s break down 10 of the most remarkable campaigns that prove why great video marketing isn’t just art — it’s strategy.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
✔ Effective video ads are emotional, not just transactional.
✔ Authenticity and creativity can be more valuable than a big budget.
✔ Great video marketing campaigns tell a relatable story that connects with the audience.
✔ An example of a campaign video doesn’t always need sound to be powerful.
✔ Every successful video marketing campaign has a clear and simple call to action.
10 Most Remarkable Video Marketing Campaigns
1. Old Spice – “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like”
This campaign redefined male grooming ads through humor and absurdity. Its witty tone, fast-paced delivery, and unexpected narrative made Old Spice a household name again. This example of a campaign video shows how bold creativity and humor can revive a tired brand.
2. Always – “#LikeAGirl”
A social message disguised as a product ad, this campaign challenged gender stereotypes and struck an emotional chord. It turned a common phrase into a movement — proof that effective video ads can also inspire social change.
3. Chipotle – “Back to the Start”
Using stop-motion animation and Willie Nelson’s heartfelt cover of “The Scientist,” Chipotle highlighted its commitment to sustainable farming. This video marketing campaign worked because it told a story about purpose, not just food.
4. Volvo Trucks – “The Epic Split”
Jean-Claude Van Damme performing a split between two moving trucks? That’s how Volvo showcased its precision engineering. A textbook video marketing example, this ad blended spectacle with product demonstration — genius.
5. Nike – “Dream Crazy”
Featuring Colin Kaepernick, Nike’s campaign was bold, emotional, and perfectly aligned with its “Just Do It” ethos. The ad reinforced Nike’s core identity — that standing for something matters. It’s one of the most effective video marketing campaigns of the decade.
6. Dollar Shave Club – “Our Blades Are F*ing Great”**
Shot on a shoestring budget, this viral ad used raw humor and direct messaging to cut through industry noise. It’s the perfect example of a campaign video that proves authenticity and confidence beat polish.
7. John Lewis & Partners – “The Beginner”
Each holiday season, John Lewis delivers emotional storytelling, but “The Beginner” stood out. Its simple story of a foster father learning to skateboard melted hearts and reinforced the brand’s reputation for empathy-driven content.
8. The Farmer’s Dog – “Forever”
This Super Bowl spot took viewers through a dog’s life alongside its owner — and it hit every emotional note. Proof that effective video ads don’t need spectacle; just real emotion and human connection.
9. Coca-Cola – “Masterpiece”
Blending classic art with cutting-edge animation, Coca-Cola’s “Masterpiece” used creativity to show how art — like Coke — connects people. It’s a standout video marketing example that merges tradition and innovation flawlessly.
10. Coinbase – “Less Talk, More Bitcoin”
During the 2022 Super Bowl, Coinbase ran a minimalist ad featuring only a bouncing QR code. No voiceover, no pitch — just intrigue. It drove millions of scans in minutes, showing that silence can sometimes shout the loudest in video marketing campaigns.
Example of a Campaign Video That Works: Key Elements
The video marketing campaigns above can teach us a lot about putting these tips into practice. While every successful video marketing campaign is unique, they often share a few universal elements that make them so effective.
- Relatable Storytelling: The video should tell a simple, relatable story that builds empathy and makes the brand’s solution more appealing to the viewer. This narrative connects with a real-life experience or emotional state.
- Problem-Solution Framework: The ad must clearly present a common problem or pain point for the audience and then introduces the product or service as the effortless solution. This framework is a powerful way to demonstrate value.
- Strong Visuals: The ad must use clean, high-quality, and visually appealing shots. Strong visuals are crucial for capturing and holding a viewer’s attention, especially when they’re watching without sound.
- Clear and Simple CTA: The video should end with a single, unambiguous call to action (CTA). This makes it easy for viewers to understand exactly what you want them to do next, whether it’s “Shop Now,” “Learn More,” or “Sign Up.
How to Make Effective Video Ads
Creating a video ad that stands out requires more than just a camera and a good idea. To build a successful video marketing campaign, you need to focus on a few key elements that capture attention and drive action.
- Hook Your Audience Immediately: The first 3-5 seconds are critical. Use a strong visual, a surprising question, or an emotional prompt to grab your viewer’s attention and prevent them from skipping your ad.
- Keep It Short and Focused: To avoid confusing your audience, stick to one core message or call to action. While some stories require more time, most effective video ads are concise, which is crucial as ninety percent of consumers rely on social media to keep up with trends and cultural moments.
- Tell a Story: Whether it’s a customer’s journey, a brand’s origin, or a problem-and-solution narrative, storytelling creates an emotional connection and makes your brand more memorable.
- Show, Don’t Just Tell: Instead of describing a product’s benefits, show them in action. Let your video demonstrate how your product solves a problem or improves a user’s life.
- Optimize for Sound-Off Viewing: A large percentage of people watch videos on social media without sound. Use text overlays, captions, and strong visuals to ensure your message is still clear.
End with a Clear Call to Action (CTA): Tell your viewers exactly what you want them to do next, whether it’s “Shop Now,” “Learn More,” or “Sign Up.” Make your CTA visible and compelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
The budget for a successful video marketing campaign varies. Many of the most iconic effective video ads had big budgets, but campaigns like Dollar Shave Club prove that creativity and authenticity are more valuable than money.
To measure the success of your video marketing campaign, look beyond views. Key metrics include engagement rate, click-through rate, conversions, and brand lift.
Yes. Many memorable video marketing examples became famous for their unique ideas, not their brand name. A creative approach can help any company stand out with effective video ads.
You can share your example of a campaign video on platforms like YouTube and social media sites such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, as well as your own website.
The ideal length depends on your goal. Short ads (6-15 seconds) are best for brand awareness, while longer videos are better for storytelling. An effective video ad is as long as it needs to be to get its message across.
Ready to Launch a Standout Campaign?
At Corporate Video Production, we specialize in helping NYC businesses craft powerful and effective video ads. We’ll partner with you to transform your vision into a viral-worthy video marketing campaign that captures attention and drives results.
Contact us today to turn your next idea into a remarkable example of a campaign video that truly works.