20 Video Marketing Examples Every Marketer Can Learn From

These days, video marketing isn’t just a “nice-to-have” — it’s one of the most powerful ways to connect with an audience. Whether it’s sparking an emotional reaction, showcasing a product in action, or telling a story that pulls you in, the right video can make a brand unforgettable.

In this post, I’m diving into the top 20 video marketing examples that stand out for all the right reasons. You’ll see what makes them work, why they resonate, and how you can apply those same strategies to your own content. I handpicked each example for its creativity, impact, and ability to inspire — no fluff, just real takeaways you can put into action.

1. Reebok: 25,915 Days

Reebok’s 25,915 Days is one of the best video advertising examples. The campaign is a powerful reminder that life is short — and every day counts.

The video takes viewers on a reverse journey through the life of a female athlete, starting from her older years and rewinding through significant moments of athletic achievement, personal growth, and raw determination. From competitive races to childhood play, each scene highlights the impact of movement and physical activity throughout her life.

Why it was successful:

25,915 Days took off because it hit that perfect mix of emotion and motivation. Reebok used storytelling to tap into something we all feel — the fleeting nature of time — and turned it into a call to action. 

The reverse life journey isn't just visually striking; it makes viewers reflect on their own lives and how they’re spending their days. That kind of emotional pull is what makes people hit share.

Key takeaway for marketers:

• Connect with emotion: Craft stories that tap into universal feelings to create a deeper connection with your audience.
• Leverage storytelling: Use creative marketing videos to make your message memorable and impactful.
• Focus on purpose: Go beyond the product by aligning your brand with a bigger, meaningful message.

2. Coca-Cola: The Last Customer

Coca-Cola: The Last Customer shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked workers who keep things running during the holiday season: janitors, security guards, and late-night staff. The video follows these unsung heroes as they quietly go about their duties, unnoticed by the crowds. 

Then, in a heartwarming twist, Coca-Cola surprises them with a festive celebration, complete with cheers, gifts, and, of course, bottles of Coke. It’s a touching reminder to appreciate those who work behind the scenes, perfectly capturing the spirit of gratitude and togetherness.

Why it was successful:

The Last Customer tapped into the power of gratitude and kindness, shining a light on everyday heroes who are often overlooked. Coca-Cola used emotional storytelling to create a feel-good moment that resonated with audiences, especially during the holiday season. The surprise celebration felt authentic and heartwarming, making this marketing video highly shareable.

Key takeaway for marketers:

• Celebrate unsung heroes: Shine a light on overlooked individuals to create authentic, heartwarming content that resonates.
• Tap into seasonal emotions: Leverage the spirit of holidays or special occasions to amplify emotional impact and shareability.
• Create genuine surprises: Craft unexpected moments of kindness to leave a lasting impression and encourage viewers to spread the message.

3. Nike: Dream Crazy

Nike’s Dream Crazy campaign features powerful, real-life stories of athletes who defied odds and overcame adversity to achieve greatness. The video showcases diverse athletes — from Paralympians to young dreamers — pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. Narrated by Colin Kaepernick, the ad emphasizes Nike’s message of believing in something, even if it means sacrificing everything, encouraging viewers to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles.

Why it was successful:
Nike’s campaign combined bold storytelling with a powerful message of empowerment and social justice, resonating deeply with a wide audience. The ad’s emotional appeal, fueled by Kaepernick’s influential voice, sparked conversation and connected with viewers who shared its values, making it highly shareable and impactful.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Be bold with your message: Stand firm in your brand’s values and use storytelling to create an emotional connection.
• Leverage influencers for authenticity: Partner with influential figures who align with your brand to amplify your message.
• Focus on social relevance: Address current issues or social movements to engage with your audience on a deeper level.

4. Dollar Shave Club: Our Blades are F*ing Great

This video advertising campaign features a humorous and no-nonsense pitch by Dollar Shave Club's CEO, Michael Dubin, who confidently delivers the brand’s simple message: affordable, high-quality razors. 

In a witty, casual tone, the video takes viewers through a fun, slightly irreverent introduction to the company, emphasizing both product quality and the ease of subscription. 

Why it was successful:
This video marketing campaign broke through the clutter with humor, relatability, and authenticity. It used a conversational tone to engage viewers, making the brand feel more personal and approachable. The unexpected humor, combined with a straightforward message, resonated with a younger, budget-conscious audience looking for a fresh alternative to traditional razor brands.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Be bold and authentic: Don’t be afraid to be yourself and speak in a voice that aligns with your brand’s personality.
• Use humor to stand out: Leverage humor to make your brand more relatable and memorable, especially in industries where competitors are more traditional.
• Keep it simple and direct: Focus on a clear, straightforward message to cut through the noise and engage your audience.

5. GoPro: Fireman Saves Kitten

This heartwarming video features a firefighter rescuing a kitten from a burning building, with the footage captured from the firefighter’s GoPro camera. 

The raw, emotional video shows the firefighter’s brave actions and the heartwarming moment he saves the kitten, all while showcasing the camera’s durability and ability to capture real, intense moments in high-stress situations. The video emphasizes GoPro’s commitment to capturing extraordinary experiences and the emotional power of storytelling.

Why it was successful:
This video combined emotional appeal with an unexpected, feel-good story. The heroic rescue of a kitten, captured from a first-person perspective, was not only heartwarming but also demonstrated GoPro’s ability to capture moments that connect with viewers on a deeper level. The footage felt authentic and personal, making it highly shareable and relatable.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Leverage emotional storytelling: Create content that taps into emotions, especially ones that evoke empathy or joy.
• Showcase your product’s real-world value: Highlight how your product performs in real, impactful situations to build trust and authenticity.
• Make it shareable: Craft videos that are not just about the product but also offer a universally appealing story that people want to share.

6. Always: #LikeAGirl

The #LikeAGirl campaign from Always takes a stand against the negative connotations associated with the phrase "like a girl" and challenges viewers to rethink it. The video features young girls and women demonstrating their strength, confidence, and abilities, contrasting them with stereotypes often perpetuated in the media. 

The campaign empowers women by redefining what it means to do something "like a girl," turning it into a statement of pride and strength rather than weakness.

Why it was successful:
The campaign tackled a deeply ingrained societal issue — gender stereotypes — in an emotional and empowering way. By targeting a broad audience, including young girls and women, Always used storytelling to challenge norms and spark conversations about gender equality. 

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Address societal issues with purpose: Use your platform to raise awareness about important social issues in an authentic and empowering way.
• Empower your audience: Create content that encourages self-confidence and inspires change in the way people think and act.
• Make your message universally relatable: Focus on broad themes that resonate with diverse audiences to drive conversations and engagement.

7. Dove: Real Beauty Sketches

Dove’s Real Beauty Sketches campaign features a forensic artist who sketches women based on their own descriptions of themselves and then sketches them again based on a stranger's description. The resulting contrast between how women view themselves and how others see them highlights the differences in self-perception.

The campaign encourages women to embrace their natural beauty and challenge societal standards of beauty, focusing on self-confidence and self-love.

Why it was successful:
The video resonated with women because it addressed the common issue of negative self-perception. Dove used storytelling to highlight the power of self-love and the importance of seeing oneself through a more positive lens. 

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Challenge societal norms: Address important issues in a way that resonates with your audience’s emotions and experiences.
• Encourage self-reflection and empowerment: Create campaigns that inspire people to see themselves in a positive light and feel confident.
• Leverage relatability to spark conversation: Focus on universal themes that connect with your audience on a personal level, making your message more powerful.

8. Apple: Shot on iPhone

Apple’s Shot on iPhone campaign is all about celebrating creativity through the lens of everyday users. It features stunning photos and videos captured on iPhones, proving that you don’t need expensive equipment to create something beautiful — just a smartphone and a bit of imagination. By showcasing real people and real moments, Apple turned its users into storytellers, making the product’s camera capabilities shine without needing a heavy sales pitch.

Why it was successful:
This campaign struck a chord because it felt authentic. Apple handed the mic (or rather, the camera) to its users, letting their creativity do the talking. The simplicity of showing what an iPhone could do in the hands of everyday people made the content relatable and highly shareable. Plus, who wouldn’t want their work featured by Apple?

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Let your audience tell the story: User-generated content isn’t just engaging — it builds trust and shows your product in action.
• Keep it real: Authenticity wins. Highlight real people using your product in real-world scenarios.
• Show, don’t tell: Instead of listing features, demonstrate value by showing the impact your product or service has on people’s lives.

9. Google Android: Unlikely Animal Friends

Google Android’s Unlikely Animal Friends campaign melted hearts everywhere by showcasing adorable, unexpected friendships between different animal species — a dog and an elephant, a cat and ducklings, and more. 

The video wraps up with the tagline “Be Together. Not the Same,” subtly reinforcing Android’s message of inclusivity and diversity without feeling preachy. It’s pure feel-good content with a powerful underlying message.

Why it was successful:
This campaign nailed emotional storytelling, using heartwarming animal friendships to create instant connection and shareability. It tapped into universal emotions — joy, surprise, and warmth — making the message memorable. Plus, the “aww” factor practically guaranteed social media buzz.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Keep it simple: A straightforward, heartfelt message can be more impactful than complex storytelling.
• Align message with emotion: Pair emotional storytelling with a clear brand message to create a lasting impression.

10. Volvo Trucks: The Epic Split

In The Epic Split, Jean-Claude Van Damme performs a gravity-defying split between two reversing Volvo trucks — all while Enya’s “Only Time” plays in the background. The video perfectly showcases Volvo’s precision steering by using a daring stunt that feels both elegant and intense. It’s a jaw-dropping visual metaphor for stability and control, turning a truck feature into a cinematic moment.

Why it was successful:
This campaign masterfully combined suspense, star power, and cinematic storytelling. It turned a technical feature into a spectacle, using Van Damme’s iconic presence to create instant intrigue while the stunt’s flawless execution left viewers in awe.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Turn features into stories: Highlight product benefits through captivating narratives or stunts.
• Leverage star power: A recognizable face can instantly grab attention and add credibility.
• Craft unforgettable visuals: Bold, unexpected imagery makes content more shareable and memorable.

11. Google Earth: Homeward Bound

Homeward Bound tells the heartwarming true story of Saroo Brierley, who used Google Earth to find his long-lost family after being separated from them as a child. The video follows his emotional journey, showcasing how technology became a bridge between past and present, family and distance. It’s a powerful narrative that turns a digital tool into a beacon of hope and connection.

Why it was successful:
The campaign struck a deep emotional chord by focusing on personal storytelling. It showed how technology can serve a meaningful purpose, resonating with audiences who value human connection and inspiring them with a real-life success story.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Humanize technology: Show how your product or service impacts lives beyond its technical features.
• Harness true stories: Authentic experiences create emotional resonance and build trust.
•  Inspire action: Frame your product or service as a tool for personal empowerment or discovery.

12. Airbnb: Live There With Your Family

In the Live There With Your Family campaign, Airbnb captures the magic of travel by showing families and friends sharing meaningful moments in unique homes around the world. The video highlights how Airbnb isn’t just about finding a place to stay — it’s about creating memories that make time feel like it slips away. Through warm visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Airbnb turns ordinary trips into unforgettable experiences.

Why it was successful:
Airbnb tapped into the emotional side of travel, using relatable stories to show that the real value lies in connection and shared experiences. The campaign resonated with audiences seeking more than just accommodation — they wanted a sense of belonging.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Focus on experiences: Highlight the emotional outcomes your product or service enables, not just its features.
• Create a sense of belonging: Position your brand as part of life’s meaningful moments, fostering community and connection.

13. Honda: The Other Side

The Other Side is a mind-blowing interactive video that lets viewers switch between two parallel storylines by pressing the “R” key. One side shows a responsible dad driving his daughter to school in a Honda Civic, while the other reveals a high-stakes night mission in the Civic Type R. This clever dual narrative highlights the car’s two sides — practical by day, thrilling by night — giving viewers control over the experience.

Why it was successful:
Honda nailed audience engagement by using interactive storytelling, making viewers feel like part of the action. The seamless transition between the two stories kept people curious and entertained, turning a car ad into an experience worth sharing.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Embrace interactivity: Let viewers participate and shape the story to create memorable experiences.
• Highlight versatility: Show different sides of your product or service to appeal to broader audiences.
• Surprise and delight: Use unexpected twists to grab attention and keep audiences hooked.

14. Netflix: Fans Make the Movies

Fans Make the Movies is a heartfelt tribute to the power of fandom. The video spotlights passionate movie lovers and how their enthusiasm breathes life into films — through fan art, cosplay, online discussions, and more. It celebrates the idea that movies aren’t just made by directors and actors but by the communities that embrace them, turning Netflix into more than a streaming service — it’s a place where stories spark connections.

Why it was successful:
Netflix tapped into the emotional connection people have with their favorite films, making fans the heroes of the story. By shining a light on audience passion, Netflix created a sense of belonging and made viewers feel seen, sparking instant relatability and shareability.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Celebrate your audience: Showcasing fans makes your brand feel personal and relatable.
• Tap into communities: Leverage the power of fandom to spread your message organically.

15. Heinz A.I. Ketchup

In its A.I. Ketchup campaign, Heinz asked artificial intelligence to create images of "ketchup" — unsurprisingly, most results resembled Heinz’s iconic bottle. The video playfully showcases the brand’s unmistakable identity, proving that even AI associates ketchup with Heinz. It cleverly merges technology and nostalgia, sparking curiosity while reinforcing brand recognition.

Why it was successful:
Heinz tapped into the growing fascination with AI, using it in a fun, unexpected way to highlight the brand’s iconic status. The playful blend of tech, humor, and brand identity made the content highly shareable and memorable.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Leverage trending tech: Integrate emerging technologies to create buzz and intrigue.
• Reinforce brand identity: Subtly position your product or service as the go-to in its category.
• Spark curiosity: Use unexpected angles to make audiences pause, watch, and share.

16. CeraVe: Developed by Dermatologists, Not Michael Cera

In this playful campaign, CeraVe pokes fun at its own name, with actor Michael Cera humorously claiming he helped develop the skincare brand. The video leans into absurdity, blending Cera’s signature awkward charm with a clever brand pun while subtly highlighting the product’s dermatologist-backed credibility. It’s a perfect mix of humor and product education.

Why it was successful:
CeraVe nailed the balance between comedy and branding, leveraging Michael Cera’s quirky persona to make the content relatable and entertaining. The unexpected pairing of celebrity humor with skincare caught attention and encouraged shares across social media.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Leverage unexpected partnerships: Unusual celebrity-brand pairings can spark curiosity and conversation.
• Play with your brand name: Clever wordplay makes content more memorable and shareable.

17. Tim Hortons: Timbiebs

In this campaign, Canadian coffeehouse Tim Hortons teamed up with pop star Justin Bieber to create a limited-edition line of Timbits, aptly called Timbiebs. The video showcases Bieber as the face of the collaboration, mixing his star power with Tim Hortons’ iconic offerings. The campaign cleverly blends celebrity influence with a fan favorite, generating excitement and anticipation around the launch.

Why it was successful:
Tim Hortons capitalized on Bieber's massive fanbase while creating an exclusive product that encouraged fans to engage. The combination of celebrity, exclusivity, and the irresistible draw of new flavors made this campaign a social media sensation, attracting both loyal customers and new, Bieber-obsessed fans.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Leverage celebrity power: Partnering with influential figures can amplify your brand reach.
• Create exclusivity: Limited-time products can build excitement and urgency.
• Tap into fandom: When your target audience has a deep connection with a celebrity, it boosts engagement.

18. Pantene: Sorry, Not Sorry

In this campaign, Pantene flips the script on how women are often expected to apologize for being confident. The video showcases women unapologetically owning their space — in the workplace, at home, or in everyday life — while the tagline “Sorry, not sorry” reinforces the message of self-empowerment. 

Pantene connects this bold, confident attitude with its products, encouraging women to feel great about themselves without the need for any apologies.

Why it was successful:
Pantene addresses a societal issue many women face: being told to apologize for something a man wouldn’t be expected to apologize for, like being assertive. By creating a message that’s relatable and empowering, the campaign became something people could identify with and rally behind. It wasn't just about shampoo; it was about confidence and making women feel seen.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Speak to real struggles: Connecting with your audience on a personal level makes your campaign more impactful.
• Empower: People love supporting brands that uplift and challenge the status quo.
• Be relatable: When you address something people experience daily, they’re more likely to resonate with it and share your message.

19. Pokémon GO: Discover Pokémon in the Real World

This campaign was all about blending the digital and real worlds. By using augmented reality, Pokémon GO encouraged players to get outside and discover Pokémon in the places they visit every day. The ad shows people of all ages, from kids to adults, using their phones to find and catch Pokémon in parks, streets, and even their own backyards. The idea was simple but genius: turning everyday moments into a magical experience.

Why it was successful:
The campaign created an entirely new experience for players — something they’d never seen before. It combined the excitement of childhood nostalgia with cutting-edge tech, making the game feel fresh and fun. Plus, it encouraged real-world interaction, making it not just a game but a movement. People shared their adventures, and that excitement spread like wildfire.

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Combine nostalgia with innovation: Tapping into something people already love and adding a modern twist can create buzz.
• Make it social: When people share their experiences, it helps spread the word for you.
• Encourage real-world engagement: Find ways to get your audience interacting with your brand in their everyday life — it builds deeper connections.

20. Mastercard: Giving Back

In this campaign, Mastercard puts a fresh spin on the idea of giving. The video shows how small, simple acts of kindness — like buying a coffee for the person behind you or helping someone in need — can create a ripple effect of goodwill. 

It’s not just about buying or spending but creating positive change in the world. Mastercard makes the point that with every transaction, there’s an opportunity to give back, and it’s here to help you do that.

Why it was successful:
This campaign worked because it focused on emotions we can all relate to — kindness, generosity, and community. It wasn’t just about selling a card; it was about encouraging people to think bigger and do good in the world. The storytelling was emotionally powerful, pulling at heartstrings and encouraging people to share the message. 

Key takeaways for marketers:

• Tap into real emotions: Get people to feel something genuine — whether it’s kindness, excitement, or even a little inspiration.
• Stand for something bigger: People want to connect with brands that have values, not just products to sell.

What Makes a Video Marketing Campaign Stand Out? 

When it comes to video marketing, we know it's not just about grabbing attention; it's about creating a connection that lasts. To make your video campaign truly shine, there are a few key elements that can help your message resonate with your audience. 

• Compelling storytelling: A great story has the power to engage and draw your audience in. When your video tells a story that’s relatable, it creates an emotional bond that keeps people thinking about your brand long after they've watched.
• Clear message: Simplicity is key. Your video should communicate a clear message that’s easy to understand. The more straightforward you are, the easier it is for your audience to connect with what you're saying — and act on it.
• High-quality production: First impressions matter, so make sure your video looks and sounds polished. Clean visuals, crisp sound, and smooth editing help ensure your audience stays focused on the message, not the technical aspects.
• Strong emotional appeal: We all know that emotions drive action. Whether it’s through humor, inspiration, or empathy, videos that make people feel something are far more likely to leave a lasting impression.
• Unique concept: It’s all about standing out. A unique concept helps your video grab attention in a crowded space. Think about fresh ways to approach a topic — it’ll spark curiosity and get people talking.
• Audience-centric: Think about what matters to your audience, what challenges they face, and how you can provide a solution. When you speak directly to your viewers' needs, they’re more likely to engage with your brand.
• Memorable visuals: People remember what they see. If you can create striking visuals — whether it’s through bold colors, unexpected animations, or beautiful imagery — it’ll help reinforce your message and make your video unforgettable.
• Call to action: Don’t leave people hanging! Always end your video with a clear call to action. Whether you want them to sign up, share, or buy, guide your audience to the next step and make it easy for them to take action.
• Shareability: Let’s face it — if your video’s shareable, it’s going places. Craft your video in a way that encourages your audience to share it with their friends and followers, and your brand will get more visibility and engagement.
• Consistency with brand voice: Stay true to who you are. Your video should feel like it’s coming from your brand, so make sure your tone and messaging are consistent with your overall voice. This helps build trust and makes your brand more recognizable across different platforms.

Create Your Own Viral Video Ad With Magic Hour

We know how important storytelling, emotional appeal, and connecting with your audience are when it comes to creating successful video marketing campaigns. When you craft a story that resonates and tugs at emotions, you're not just delivering a message — you're giving your audience an experience they want to be a part of. 

Magic Hour takes the stress out of video creation, allowing you to create impactful campaigns that stand out. Whether you're looking to increase brand visibility or generate leads, Magic Hour can elevate your video marketing game. 

Curious to see how it all works? 

Create a free video to see how we can tailor a video marketing strategy that makes your brand go viral.

FAQ

What Is Video Marketing?

Video marketing is all about using videos to tell stories, connect with your audience, and promote your product, service, or brand. Whether it’s a quick social video marketing clip or a polished ad campaign, videos make it easier to grab attention and share your message in a way that feels natural and engaging.

Why Is Video Marketing So Effective?

Video marketing is effective because it pulls people in and holds their attention. It’s a powerful way to tap into emotions, break down complex ideas, and create content that feels more personal. Plus, videos perform well across pretty much every platform, making it easier to reach and connect with your audience wherever they are.

How Do I Measure the Success of My Video Marketing Campaign?

Measuring success comes down to looking at the right numbers. Keep an eye on metrics like views, watch time, and engagement (likes, comments, and shares). If you’re driving traffic or sales, track click-through rates and conversions, too. The key is to see what resonates and use those insights to fine-tune your content for even better results next time.