Asda has unveiled the behind the scenes of how it created its ‘Have your Elf a Merry Christmas’ advert, following popularity among viewers.
Last week the Big 4 grocer launched its 2022 Christmas advert featuring Buddy the Elf, under license from Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, using original footage and iconic lines from the UK’s favourite Christmas film.
The behind the scenes look features interviews from the team who created the advert and unseen footage of how Asda integrated the original footage with newly shot scenes.
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Shot by director Danny Kleinman and made with visual effects, the advert was created by integrating the film footage into an all-new production, which Asda said has never been done on this scale before.
“Given Elf is the UK’s favourite festive film, we were determined to remain faithful to its Christmas-loving spirit and do justice to the wonderful, wide-eyed character that is Buddy,” Asda acting chief customer officer, Sam Dickson said.
“It was a creative and technical challenge for everyone involved but we knew we needed to create something even more special this year to help spread some much-needed cheer and we’re delighted with the outcome.”
He added: “With over 2 million YouTube views and counting, the positive response we’ve had from fans of the film and families from across the UK is overwhelming. We’re thrilled people love it just as much as us and hope we’ve succeeded in our quest to make this Christmas a little more joyful for everyone.”
Director Danny Kleinman commented: “For me this was a unique challenge, working with an A list Hollywood actor, without him being there in person, and crafting other actors around his iconic performance.
“It was important not only to make the action seamless but also convincingly transport him to a Christmas Asda store, creating a Hollywood feel to Asda’s Christmas celebrations.”
