Hit or Miss: Star power ruled this week’s ad spots

In this weekly round-up, we look at how some campaigns hit the sweet spot while others failed to score on the vibe check

e4m by e4m Staff
Published: May 10, 2025 8:51 AM  | 3 min read
Shraddha Kapoor, SRK, Hrithik roshan, Shreyas Iyer
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In this week's dose of sparkle, sizzle, and the occasional snooze-fest from the world of advertising, come join us! From AI-generated fantasy worlds to syrupy centennial celebrations and Bollywood-meets-biscuit poetry, brands have been pulling out all the stops (and stars) to grab your eyeballs. 

Some campaigns hit the sweet spot, stirring emotions and driving home their message. Others? Well, they fumbled the vibe check, leaving us wondering if the ad budget would've been better spent on snacks. Whether it’s cricket cameos, filmy reunions, or poetic voiceovers, this week had something for every kind of viewer, the cynic, the dreamer, and even your chai-loving cousin who skips ads on YouTube. So grab a coffee (or a cookie), and let's break down which ads had us clapping, and which ones just clattered. Spoiler: AI may be coming for your TV breaks too.

Pynk Ad with Shraddha Kapoor

Pynk's latest campaign, "Work. Pynk. Play.", features Shraddha Kapoor and celebrates modern femininity. The ad resonates with audiences by portraying relatable moments and emotions, making it a hit among viewers. It's a hit.

Emami's Fully AI-Generated DermiCool Ad

Emami's "DermiCool Warriors" is India's first fully AI-generated FMCG ad. It creatively personifies prickly heat as "Ghamoriya" monsters, showcasing AI's potential in advertising. While innovative, its fantasy theme may not appeal to audiences. It's a miss.

InCred's 'Ask InCred' Campaign with Shreyas Iyer

InCred's campaign features cricketer Shreyas Iyer, aiming to simplify financial concepts for the youth. By combining celebrity appeal with educational content, it effectively engages its target audience, making it a hit. 

Ranveer Brar Celebrates 100 Years of Hershey's Syrup

Chef Ranveer Brar leads Hershey's centenary campaign, "Pour a Little Magic With HERSHEY’S Syrup". The campaign's interactive elements and nostalgic appeal make it a delightful tribute to the brand's legacy. Sweet hit.

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ExxonMobil's 'Unforgettable Journeys' Ad with Hrithik and Rakesh Roshan

This ad marks the first on-screen collaboration between Hrithik and Rakesh Roshan, celebrating 25 years of Hrithik's cinematic journey. The emotional narrative enhances brand recall, making it a memorable campaign. It's a hit.

Sunfeast Dark Fantasy's 'Fantasy Zaroori Hai' with Shah Rukh Khan

Sunfeast's campaign features a poem by Swanand Kirkire, narrated by Shah Rukh Khan, emphasizing the importance of fantasy in daily life. The poetic approach and SRK's narration add depth, making it a standout ad. 

PharmEasy's 'Fasting Tootegi On-Time' Campaign

After a three-year hiatus, PharmEasy returns with a campaign promising timely diagnostic services or a free test. The clear value proposition and catchy jingle effectively re-establish the brand's presence. It's a hit.

Published On: May 10, 2025 8:51 AM