Asda has unveiled its Christmas advert for 2022 - and an iconic festive character takes centre stage.
Buddy the Elf, from the classic Christmas film starring Will Ferrell, tries his hand at becoming an Asda employee. But in true Buddy style, it doesn't quite all go to plan.
The 90-second clip opens with a nod to the "street crossing" screen from the movie – except this time, Buddy almost gets knocked over by Asda shopping trolleys, instead of a New York City cab. The loveable character is on a trial shift at Asda, but ends up getting distracted by all the Christmas goodies in store.
The advert shows him marvelling at mince pies, eating all the pigs in blankets samples, distracting colleagues and singing loudly on the store tannoy. But just when you think he has ruined his chances of a job, Buddy turns it all around by decking out the entire shop floor in fairy lights and festive decorations - securing him the role.
The clip uses original footage from Elf so it looks like Buddy is actually inside an Asda store and it's sound tracked by Santa Clause is Comin’ to Town. Fans will recognise lines from the Elf movie as they watch the ad, including: "It's not a costume. I'm an elf," and "the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear."
Sam Dickson, Acting Chief Customer Officer at Asda said: “Like Buddy, we absolutely love Christmas – so we’re thrilled to welcome him to our team. We know this has been a tough year for so many people, which is why we want to create some little moments of joy for families this year with our Christmas campaign, and more importantly, our amazing products.
"We hope that with a little bit of help from Buddy, our joy-filled Christmas offering will create some festive magic and helps give families a Christmas to remember together.”
Asda is introducing several initiatives to help those in need this Christmas, including £1 meals for OAPs inside its cafes and continuing its popular kids eat for £1 deal. The supermarket also offers cost of living grants to support community groups with increased rent and bills.
Asda's 2022 Christmas advert premieres on Friday November 4 at 8.45pm on ITV1, during the Coronation Street advert break.
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