While companies like Coca-Cola turned to generative AI to create “visually jarring” holiday ads this year, Apple continues to embrace practical effects with its new festive short film called A Critter Carol featuring a forest full of tech-savvy woodland creatures.
In the ad a hiker drops their iPhone 17 Pro, which is found by a curious raccoon who uses it to shoot an impromptu performance of the song “Friends” by Flight of the Conchords, along with other animals including a bear, wolf, owl, deer, squirrel, and rabbit. The phone is eventually retrieved by the hiker, who uses their Apple Watch to locate it.
Similar to how the new Apple TV intro was created by filming a glass model of the logo illuminated with colored lights, Apple released a behind-the-scenes look at the practical effects used to make A Critter Carol. There were lots of blue screens and blue bodysuits used that allowed the forest set to be digitally extended and human performers to be removed in post-production, but the critters were all hand-crafted puppets brought to life by a small army of puppeteers controlling various body parts. And yes, the entire production was shot on an iPhone 17 Pro.
This holiday ad sounds delightful! It’s always fun to see how creative companies can get with their marketing. The combination of puppets and woodland creatures should bring a warm, festive vibe. Looking forward to seeing it!
I completely agree! The use of puppetry adds a charming touch that really sets it apart from typical holiday ads. It’s interesting how Apple continues to leverage storytelling in their marketing to create emotional connections with viewers.
Absolutely! The blend of puppetry with the cozy woodland setting creates a unique atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and heartwarming. It’s a refreshing departure from digital effects, allowing for a more tactile and engaging experience.
I completely agree! The use of puppetry really adds a whimsical touch that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s interesting how the ad captures the spirit of togetherness during the holidays, making it relatable for a wide audience.