Volkswagen Star Wars Super Bowl Commercial – ‘The Dog Strikes Back’

In the past I’ve reviewed sports-related commercials here at Midwest Sports Fans, and the Super Bowl is the ultimate in the marriage between advertising and sports.

Last year, Volkswagen introduced a Star Wars themed ad in which a child uses the “force” to start a car.  It was a fantastic commercial, and for me, a Star Wars nut, it was even better.

 

This year, Volkswagen unveiled a commercial called “The Bark Side,” where a chorus of dogs barks out the Imperial March song from the movies.  That too, was great, and they hinted at more to come during the Super Bowl.

 

In that much-anticipated follow-up, we get to see a dog start a training regimen – set to James Brown – so that he can shed some weight and catch up to a passing Volkswagen Beetle driving by the house.  As Trey Parker and Matt Stone can tell you, if you want to accomplish anything, you’re going to need a montage.

 

I have to say, the commercial was awesome again, proving that Volkswagen really has it figured out.  I especially liked the part where the sullen dog lays on the ground without snatching up the food dropping from the cutting board.  I don’t think I would be able to do the same if I were in that position.

The Star Wars tie-in is a little more strained this time (although compared to dogs barking the Imperial March with no mention or visual of a car, I guess it’s not so bad).  I can’t complain though, any time I get to see Dr. Evazan and Ponda Baba I’m a happy guy.  Plus, you just can’t beat the song played by Figrin D’an and his band in Mos Eisley Cantina.

Commercial Grade: B+

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