1984 (advertisement)

Mindset - August 1984 Byte Magazine advert

:1984 - Hess Brothers Advertisement - 8 Sep MC - Allentown PA

1984 is a landmark television commercial that was created for Apple Inc. to promote the launch of the company's first Macintosh computer. Directed by Ridley Scott, the advertisement aired during the third quarter of the Super Bowl XVIII on January 22, 1984. Due to its creative direction, distinct storyline, and its role in heralding the era of personal computing, the "1984" advertisement has been widely acclaimed and is considered a watershed moment in advertising.

Background

The concept behind the "1984" advertisement was inspired by George Orwell's dystopian novel, Nineteen Eighty-Four, which depicts a totalitarian society oppressed by a surveillance state led by a figure known as Big Brother. The advertisement's narrative was designed to position the Macintosh as a symbol of personal freedom and individuality, contrasting it against the dehumanizing conformity of its competitors, particularly the then-dominant IBM personal computers.

Production

Ridley Scott, who had gained fame for his work on films such as Alien and Blade Runner, was enlisted to direct the commercial. The production featured a stark, dystopian setting, complete with a large and oppressive auditorium filled with drone-like individuals. A heroine, portrayed by athlete Anya Major, is seen running towards the screen and hurling a sledgehammer at it, shattering the image of Big Brother and symbolizing the breakthrough the Macintosh represented in the computing world.

Impact and Legacy

Upon its broadcast, the "1984" advertisement immediately garnered widespread attention and critical acclaim. It was praised for its innovative use of cinematic techniques in a commercial format, its bold messaging, and its effective communication of Apple's positioning of the Macintosh as a revolutionary product. The ad played a significant role in establishing the brand identity of Apple as a company that champions creativity, individuality, and innovation.

The "1984" advertisement has since been considered a masterpiece of advertising, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest commercials of all time. It has been credited with helping to launch the Macintosh with significant public interest and setting a new standard for the advertising industry in terms of production value and narrative depth.

Influence

The influence of the "1984" advertisement extends beyond its immediate impact on the Macintosh's launch. It has been studied in academic and professional settings for its strategic and creative approach to marketing. Additionally, the ad has inspired numerous other campaigns and remains a touchstone for discussions on advertising, technology, and society.

See Also

• Apple Inc.
• Macintosh
• Super Bowl commercials
• Ridley Scott
• George Orwell
• Nineteen Eighty-Four