The two-minute clip shows a six-year-old called Lily trying to reach an old man who lives alone in a hut on the moon. She spies him through the family telescope – available to buy in stores. But nothing – bow and arrow, paper aeroplane or snail mail – can reach him.
When Christmas Day comes around, a tree is plonked in the living room, presents are promptly unwrapped, and Lily is surrounded by family. The old man gets a gift of his own: a classic telescope, delivered to him in a cloud of colourful helium balloons – not unlike the opening scene to the Pixar movie ‘Up’. There are tears when they finally lock eyes.
All the things we have come to expect from a John Lewis Christmas ad are there. Tearjerker? Check. Mournful cover of a big hit pop song? Check. Big budget? Check. Cuddly plush toys in store? Um, nope. But there will be mugs…
Next Christmas, Lily, it would be good if you could send him something useful. Maybe build a rocket with enough seats to bring him home.
So is this another vintage year?
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