As we head deeper into the 2020s, brand marketing videos are becoming even more necessary for any business to find success.
You’ve probably found this article because you’re interested in making your own brand video and want to learn how to make it as successful as possible.
Well, we’ve got you covered.
Read on for our list of the top 15 brand marketing videos (as of late 2023) and our analysis of why they work.
Contents
What is a brand video?
A brand video is a powerful marketing tool that encapsulates a company's identity, showcasing its values, mission, and essence. It is designed to connect with viewers, create an emotional connection, build brand awareness, and shape the customer's experience and loyalty.
The greatest brand videos of all time: a curated list
1. Apple think different
Apple's "Think Different" campaign is an iconic piece of marketing history that encapsulates the essence of the brand.
This campaign isn't just a showcase of Apple's innovative spirit; it's a manifesto that speaks to the heart of every visionary, every rebel, and every creative soul who dares to break the mold.
The script is nothing short of poetic, a call to the changemakers of the past and an invitation to those of the future. More than a commercial, it's a cultural touchstone that aligns perfectly with Apple's mission to empower individuality and originality.
Decades on, the legacy of "Think Different" persists, continuing to challenge and inspire.
It’s a testament to the power of Apple's brand and its unyielding connection to the trailblazers who, as the campaign says, "push the human race forward.
2. Carakit
Carakit stands out as a distinctive brand.
They offer luxurious, survivor-curated gift kits complete with instructions, tailored for women undergoing chemo, surgery, or radiation. The kits contain treatment-safe products for a medicinal cabinet reset.
The video tells the story of the founder's personal journey. She went through chemotherapy, had three surgeries, and underwent 30 rounds of radiation. These experiences inspired her to support other women going through similar challenges.
The captivating combination of a powerful narrative and impressive visuals create a heartfelt experience that can deeply touch viewers.
3. Welcome to Airbnb
When it comes to brand videos, every company wants something that will make them popular, be remembered, and look impressive. But not everyone thinks of being engaging.
However, creating engagement with your audience is the best thing you can do to make your brand memorable.
Airbnb knows how to both create engagement between hosts and their tenants, as well as how to make a brand video that creates engagement between people and their brand.
With this video, the Airbnb team created a compelling story that recreates all the beautiful moments of an Airbnb journey.
By building a physical 85 square meter miniature platform, they show how you can make yourself at home with Airbnb wherever you go.
4. Volvo Trucks - The Epic Split
Volvo has long been synonymous with safety and reliability in the automotive world.
Their 'Epic Split' video cleverly plays on this reputation, opening with the unexpected sight of Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Initially, this seems off-beat, but it quickly unfolds into a stunning display of precision and control—Van Damme performing a flawless split between two reversing Volvo trucks.
This ad is a masterclass in brand and product messaging, encapsulating what Volvo represents and highlighting the distinctive handling of their trucks. Although it's debatable whether Volvo is the world's safest car, their marketing prowess in emphasizing safety is unquestionably top-notch.
5. Nike - Dream Crazy
Nike's "Dream Crazy" campaign is truly inspiring. It's one of those campaigns that grabs you. Nike has always been about making big, bold bets — just think about their early days with Michael Jordan.
Watching this video, you feel the connection between incredible achievements and the Nike brand. It's like they're saying, "With us, you can do amazing things."
And by the end, you really believe in their slogan "Just do it" — it's motivating, pushing you to get going and chase your dreams.
6. Starbucks Coffee Perfection
I’ve included this video on our list of the top brand videos for two reasons. First is the visual part that leaves no need for words and comments beyond total appreciation. Second is the script.
Let’s talk a bit more about that.
Starbucks took a unique approach with their brand marketing video script, starting the story from the end. It’s an end we all know – a fresh and delicious coffee on our desk.
But what about the rest of the process that most of us haven’t ever thought of?
This video shows the viewer the long journey – the Starbucks coffee beans grown, sourced, roasted, and then finally ready to be enjoyed. This clever backtracking tactic helped them add education and awareness to their brand while staying entertaining and increasing brand passion.
If you want to create a deeper relationship with your audience or build trust with those who have recently discovered your brand, use this as inspiration for your next marketing project.
7. A Coke is a Coke
“A Coke Is A Coke” is one of my favorites on this list.
I would like to point your attention to how they used this marketing video to show that Coca-Cola is more than just a drink. It’s the drink for everyone; it’s the brand that unifies all the people in the world. Sure, there are many who don’t prefer Coke, but with this marketing video they did their best to show that there is no segmentation, there are no limits; this brand loves everyone and everyone loves this brand.
The message is simple but powerful. And while it seems they aren’t saying much, so much actually is said, and in just one sentence.
If you want your brand video to be successful too, you must think outside the box to create something that will not just display your brand name or logo, but connect people emotionally to your brand idea.
8. HubSpot Culture
The most important thing I would like to outline about this Hubspot brand video is that it shows its innovative approach to company culture. This is one of the concepts that made HubSpot so popular and the producers knew it’s their best feature and what they should focus on.
A 3 minute, 30-second video may seem long and at risk to be boring for a marketing brand video, but in this case it works. They applied a proper amount of humor and tried to involve every branch to show that their team consists of real professionals who are passionate about their work.
Useful Recourse
30 Second Explainer Video – Pros & Cons
9. Kenya Ice Hockey Team Dreams Big
With this story about the Kenyan Ice Hockey Team, Alibaba wanted to show that before everything big comes a spark, and Alibaba was once just an idea too before becoming a household name.
I love this video because it’s inspiring and encourages the viewer to dream beyond the possible.
The key message from this example is that a marketing video doesn’t have to be built entirely around your brand.
10. 75 Years of BIC
BIC starts the dialogue with its most famous products. What, if not their famous pens, lighters, and razors would better tell us the story of the BIC brand.
I chose this video to show that for creating a brand marketing video, you can utilize different strategies and experiment with alternative scenarios to make a powerful impact throughout your video.
This Bic video is another great piece to study if you want to make a successful marketing video.
11. The Story of Lyft
The Story of Lyft is another example that breaks the written and unwritten rules that marketing videos shouldn’t be longer than 60 seconds. This video lasts more than 3 minutes, yet those 3 minutes are watched with great enjoyment while we discover the story of how Lyft began and what makes them great.
The smooth animation quality, bright and contrasting colors, and outstanding design show how it is important to not only have a great story but also excite viewers with beautiful visuals. For marketing videos, those two elements are crucial for creating successful and remarkable content.
12. Akima’s Iñupiaq Shareholders
The Akima’s Iñupiaq Shareholders story uncovers another great idea․ What about representing a brand through the causes and public duties they uphold?
All the visuals have been created with the use of motion graphics, but more importantly with a great eye for colors, shapes, and images.
Watching this video, I’d also like to point out the voice-over. Pay special attention to it and notice how it complements the rest of the content. The way it leads the viewer through the whole story is perfect, and makes the visualization come to life. It’s another important aspect that can make or break a video.
13. StacksCity
Created by Yans Media
The StacksCity brand video makes my list because of its simple, clear, and understandable concept. Every aspect of this video from the flowing visuals to the script is built around the brand and the solutions targeted viewers can benefit from.
It can be tricky to create a video that successfully raises awareness while at the same time informing. If done correctly though, this approach could be a win-win option for you. Using the same concept for your brand video, you can raise both awareness and knowledge about your brand.
14. Stories of Better
By showing all their famous models in a uniquely wonderful visual style, Toyota found a special way to tell their brand story. When your products uphold the good name of your brand, the best thing you can do is show those products. So many different models across the years, yet there is one word that connects them all – “Toyota”. The producers of the video took this note to not only show the brand, but also follow the evolution of the brand from classic to modern
15. Redbull - I jumped from space
Red Bull's "Stratos: Mission to the Edge of Space" isn't just an advertisement; it's an event that captured the world's attention.
Whenever you watch the video of Felix Baumgartner's jump from the stratosphere, it's hard not to get clammy hands, even though you know he lands safely.
Under the banner of Red Bull, this extreme endeavor takes on a whole new meaning. It’s not about convincing viewers to make a space jump themselves, but it’s about instilling that exhilarating sense that, with Red Bull, the impossible becomes possible. It’s a perfect encapsulation of their tagline "Red Bull gives you wings."
This campaign transcended advertising; it became a moment in history, dominating headlines and proving that Red Bull is truly synonymous with pushing boundaries and extreme adventure.
Do I need a brand video for my company?
If your company is just starting and funds are tight, consider making an explainer video or a product launch video first. They’re cheaper and explain what you do. But if you want to really show people what your brand is all about and build a strong image, then a brand promotional video is the way to go. It’s a good move for making a real impression on your audience.
Understanding the Difference: Brand Videos vs. Brand Launch Videos
A brand video is like a deep dive into a company's identity. It highlights what the company stands for, its core values, and its long-term vision. Think of it as an all-encompassing view of the brand's personality and ethos.
On the other hand, a brand launch video is more like a grand debut. It’s specially crafted for when a company is rolling out a new product or introducing itself for the first time. This type of video is typically high-energy and designed to create excitement and immediate interest, focusing on the 'here and now' of a launch.
What should be in a brand video?
A brand video should typically include:
- Brand Story: A narrative that connects the audience with the brand's history, mission, and vision.
- Core Values: Highlighting what the brand stands for and believes in.
- Product or Service Overview: Showcasing the offerings and how they benefit customers.
- Visual Identity: Incorporating the brand's logos, color scheme, and visual style.
- Customer Testimonials: While typical, they can instill trust. Aim for authenticity over scripted praise—consider more creative ways to showcase genuine experiences.
- Employee Insights: Rather than scripted narratives, tap into genuine, spontaneous moments that capture the human element of your brand. It's about storytelling, not just presentation.
- Culture Snapshot: Revealing the brand's heartbeat through its workplace environment and ethos, painting a picture of life behind the logo.
Creating a great brand video is like leading an orchestra. Every chosen element, whether used alone or together, should have a clear and meaningful impact.
Ensure that no single aspect overshadows another; instead, allow each to harmoniously enhance the collective narrative.
In a brand video, every moment is important, just like every note in a symphony. Each moment should contribute to a powerful whole that resonates with your audience and leaves a lasting impression.
Should I use online creators for creating a brand video?
Using online creators for a brand video can be tempting due to convenience and cost.
However, the essence of a brand commercial video lies in its uniqueness and custom messaging. Relying on templates or non-exclusive content risks diluting your brand's distinctiveness. Instead, tailor-make your video to ensure it stands out and truly represents your brand's unique identity and values.
This attention to detail and exclusivity can significantly impact your ability to differentiate your brand in a crowded marketplace.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this breakdown of the top 10 brand videos. We’ve made hundreds of videos just like these, but it’s always fun to go through videos that others have made and see what makes them work. Or what’s missing that makes them flop! If you’re close to creating your own brand marketing video, contact us for a free consultation. Our strategists will be happy to give you insight on how to make the best brand video for your business.
