Digital Necromancy: Marilyn Monroe, Willem Dafoe, and the Snickers Super Bowl Ad

Author: Srishti Chhabria & Amber Payne
Published: Wed 12 Mar 2025
Episode Link: https://cinematic-alchemy.captivate.fm

In this week’s episode, we break down the infamous Snickers Super Bowl commercial that digitally resurrected Marilyn Monroe - except this time, she’s hangry and played by Willem Dafoe.

It’s a bold, bizarre, and undeniably memorable ad, but does it cross the ethical line of “digital necromancy”?

We explore how the ad successfully ties nostalgia, humour, and product messaging together, while also raising questions about the use of AI to bring back iconic actors.

Plus, we discuss what makes a truly effective Super Bowl ad and whether Snickers pulled it off better than other big-budget brands.

If you love dissecting ads that push creative boundaries, this episode is a must-listen.

Here are the highlights:

(1:18) Discussion on the Snickers 2021 Super Bowl Commercial

(2:50) Analysis of the Ad's Effectiveness

(7:26) Ethical Considerations and Casting Choices

(11:24) Visual and Cinematic Aspects of the Ad

(22:59) Memorability and Brand Messaging

Link to the Ad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qDafnyaUfI

Created by BBDO, New York USA: https://lbbonline.com/news/willem-dafoe-is-marilyn-monroe-in-snickers-super-bowl-50-spot

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Website: www.gunpowderhouse.co.uk