A recent commentary argues that the advent of generative-AI in advertising may be undermining cultural traditions rather than enhancing them. It takes Coca‑Cola’s annual holiday campaign as a case-in-point: once celebrated for human-driven storytelling, the 2025 version of its iconic “Holidays Are Coming” ad was largely produced via AI studios, raising questions about authenticity and emotional impact.
The piece notes that although the AI-version ad boasts more technically realistic visuals than the previous year, the increased realism arguably makes it more unsettling. It includes a mishmash of animals (sloths, porpoises, penguins) alongside the brand’s traditional elements, creating a disjointed feel. The article suggests that what might have been a festive spectacle instead comes off as lifeless and lacking the warmth associated with the human element of holiday adverts.
At its core, the article raises broader concerns about what it means when companies opt to reduce the human workforce in favour of AI-driven creation. In this case, Coca-Cola reported that only five people were involved in producing the 2025 ad, compared to many more in a traditional production cycle. The author argues that while cost-savings and speed may be appealing, the sacrifice may be in narrative depth, craftsmanship, and the human connection viewers expect during holidays.
Ultimately, the argument is that generative AI isn’t just changing how holiday ads are made, but may be affecting what holiday culture and branded sentiment feel like. When an ad that once carried cultural warmth becomes a showcase of AI efficiency, the subtle magic of the season could be eroded. The article warns that this shift may mark a turning point — not simply for advertising, but for how society perceives and values human-driven creative rituals.
