REVIEW: John Lewis Christmas Advert 2021

You know Christmas is well on its way when the John Lewis advert hits our screens and, in my eyes, this year’s hasn’t disappointed. It may not be the best the brand has ever produced, but some of the messages it shares have never rang more true.

The advert follows the blossoming love story between young boy Nathan and Skye, the ‘unexpected guest’ and extra-terrestrial who visits Earth. Their almost instant connection is heartwarming and the fact another lifeform has visited the planet is reminiscent of the unbelievable year and a half we’ve experienced – who wouldn’t want to find out what’s been going on?

One of the most prominent messages is how kind children can truly be. Nathan prioritises Skye’s first Christmas over his own and if that doesn’t reinforce that judgement is taught in young people, then I don’t know what will. John Lewis really encompassed the curiosity and adventurous nature of children this year – Nathan’s willingness to explore, keep going back for more, and not be phased by the unknown, are traits adults watching could adopt. In today’s society, we’re all too quick to judge a book by its cover and be influenced about how we should perceive others – and I’m sure everybody can learn something from Nathan’s kind heart.

Lola Young’s Together in Electric Dreams was the perfect song to accompany the narrative. The gentle and slow pace reflects the slowly-blossoming adoration the two protagonists have for one another. When the song pauses towards the end of the advert, when Nathan fears Skye has left without saying goodbye, I found myself holding my breath until he found her – which is exactly the kind of suspense we want.

Having ‘we’ll always be together, however far it seems’ over the part where Skye flies away couldn’t have worked any better and will have touched most audience members – it really reinforces the lasting impact someone can have on you, even if you can’t always be with them.

Nathan’s family epitomises what Christmas is all about: all family members gathering in one place, eating as much food as you can, and treasuring the special quality time together. Him giving that up to ensure Skye has the most enjoyable first experience of Christmas shows just how selfless children can be – especially when they’re always the centre of the festive season. After a strange Christmas last year, Nathan’s family also gives those watching a glimpse of what this year will be like, which is exactly why festivities have started seemingly early.

Unexpected Guest may not have been John Lewis’ best advert to date, but we can all learn from its many messages and it’s done the job in warming our hearts at the start of the festive season.

Edited by Hannah Youds