The wait is over. John Lewis has unveiled its 2025 Christmas advert, and it’s a breathtaking return to the emotional storytelling that once defined the season. Prepare to be moved – this isn’t just an ad, it’s a beautifully crafted experience that resonates with the quiet complexities of family connection.
The story unfolds on Christmas Day, amidst the familiar scene of wrapping paper and lingering joy. A teenage boy, lost in his own world with headphones on, nervously glances towards his father. Unseen by the dad during the present opening, a gift addressed to him lies beneath the tree, a silent offering from his son.
Anxiety hangs in the air as the father discovers the unexpected present. The boy retreats, a wave of uncertainty washing over him, fearing his father’s reaction. What he finds inside – a vinyl record of Alison Limerick’s iconic 1990 anthem, “Where Love Lives” – unlocks a powerful journey through time and memory.
As the needle drops, the father isn’t just listening to a song; he’s transported. A vibrant 90s dancefloor explodes with energy, a kaleidoscope of faces and movement. It’s a rush of youthful exuberance, a forgotten freedom rediscovered through a single, thoughtful gift.
But the joy is quickly tempered. His eyes scan the crowd and lock onto his son, a younger version of him standing apart, his expression filled with a poignant solemnity. This isn’t just about a shared love of music; it’s about unspoken feelings, the chasm that can grow between fathers and sons.
The scene shifts, blurring the lines of time. The teenager transforms into a toddler, then a baby, each stage of his life unfolding before his father’s eyes. It’s a visceral reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood, the precious moments that slip away too quickly.
Back in the present, the father pulls his son into a tight embrace, a gesture laden with years of unspoken affection. Tears well up, a release of pent-up emotion. It’s a moment of profound connection, a silent acknowledgment of the love that has always been there, waiting to be expressed.
The advert’s core message is simple yet profound: “If you can’t find the words, find the gift.” It’s a universal truth, a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful expressions of love aren’t spoken, but given. This year’s film echoes the beloved “The Long Wait,” focusing on the powerful bond between a father and son, and the thoughtfulness behind a heartfelt gesture.
Alison Limerick herself was overjoyed to hear her song featured, describing a feeling of childlike excitement. Labrinth’s reimagined version of “Where Love Lives” adds another layer of emotional depth, a hauntingly beautiful accompaniment to the unfolding story.
This isn’t just a Christmas advert; it’s a poignant exploration of family, memory, and the enduring power of a single, meaningful gift. It’s a reminder that even in the face of unspoken anxieties, love always finds a way to connect us.
