For years now, UK department store John Lewis & Partners has released an annual Christmas advertisement that’s always something creative and special for the holiday season.
This year, in a departure, the ad spot features a real person – music legend Elton John – in a story about the power a special gift can have..
Titled, “The Boy and the Piano,” the 3 minute video shares how the most beloved Christmas gift he ever received – a piano from his mother and grandmother – inspired, changed and influenced his life.
Beginning in present day with Elton sitting at his piano at Christmas, the ad time travels backwards through his mega-career using his classic hit, “Your Song,” as the musical foundation. All of the different versions of the song used in the spot are actual recordings by Elton through the years.
As the ad journeys through time, several different actors portray the superstar at various stages wearing replicas of his famous fashions.
We end up on that magical Christmas morning when he received the gift that would change his life.
And ours.
Over 1.6 million views in less than a day.
Gay Star News reports that this year, John Lewis shoppers will be able to walk through the sets used in the advert at the chain's flagship store on Oxford Street in London. Plus, the costumes from the video will be available for fans to try on.
The spot arrives ahead of the upcoming Elton John biopic, Rocketman, and his 2019 farewell tour.
The holiday spots have become an eagerly-awaited tradition in the UK as each year the creativity and story-telling explore new ways to celebrate the meaning and magic of the season.
Reading the comments on the YouTube page, most were touched by this year’s edition saying it made them cry.
But others felt Elton overwhelmed the magical sense of Christmas the spots usually deliver.
If you’re not familiar with the annual videos, check out a few more from years past.
As you'll see, the styles and creative approach to storytelling have varied a lot over the years.
Share your favorite in the comments section.
(h/t Yahoo)
