Ridley Scott’s Apple Super Bowl ad, which aired in 1984, is widely considered a groundbreaking piece of advertising that drew heavily from George Orwell’s dystopian novel "1984." The parallels between the two works are striking, with themes of subversion, control, and resistance playing a central role in both. In this article, we will explore the influences of "1984" on Ridley Scott’s Apple Super Bowl ad, examining how the ad captures the ominous tone of Orwell’s novel and how it portrays the struggle between freedom and tyranny.
The Ominous Parallels: Orwell’s "1984" Influence
One of the most obvious influences of "1984" on Ridley Scott’s Apple ad is the visual aesthetic. The ad opens on a bleak, dystopian landscape where a group of black-clad figures march in unison towards a large screen. This scene is reminiscent of the opening passages of Orwell’s novel, where Winston Smith is surrounded by the oppressive architecture of the Party. The stark, monochromatic color palette and the sense of foreboding create a sense of unease that is straight out of Orwell’s world.
Another key influence of "1984" on the Apple ad is the theme of surveillance and control. In both works, a powerful entity seeks to exert total control over its subjects, using technology to monitor and manipulate their every move. In "1984," this entity is the Party, which uses telescreens to spy on its citizens and root out dissent. In the Apple ad, this entity is represented by Big Brother, a faceless figure on the screen who dictates how people should think and act. The use of surveillance as a tool of control is a chilling reminder of the dangers of unchecked power.
The final influence of "1984" on Ridley Scott’s Apple ad is the theme of resistance and rebellion. In both works, the protagonist is a lone figure who dares to defy the status quo and fight back against oppression. In "1984," this figure is Winston Smith, who rebels against the Party in a doomed attempt to reclaim his freedom. In the Apple ad, this figure is a young woman who shatters the screen with a sledgehammer, symbolizing her rejection of conformity and her embrace of individuality. This act of defiance is a powerful statement about the importance of standing up to tyranny and fighting for one’s beliefs.
In conclusion, the influences of "1984" on Ridley Scott’s Apple Super Bowl ad are undeniable. From the visual aesthetic to the themes of surveillance, control, and resistance, the ad captures the ominous tone of Orwell’s novel and brings it to life in a modern context. By drawing on the timeless themes of "1984," the ad serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of standing up for what is right. As we continue to grapple with issues of privacy, technology, and control in our society, the message of the Apple ad remains as relevant and urgent as ever.