Pepsi ignites NFL season with “Gladiator II” inspired epic campaign

As the NFL season kicks off, PepsiCo has unveiled its latest advertising marvel, “Make Your Gameday Epic,” a star-studded campaign that intertwines the thrill of football with the cinematic grandeur of the upcoming film “Gladiator II.” The campaign features an ensemble of NFL stars, including Travis Kelce, Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, and Justin Jefferson, alongside Grammy award-winning artist Megan Thee Stallion, who adds a modern twist to Queen’s classic anthem, “We Will Rock You.”

In a dramatic three-minute spot directed by Jake Scott and produced in collaboration with Paramount Brand Studio, viewers are transported from a sports bar into a colossal colosseum. Here, NFL giants morph into gladiators, battling not just each other but also tigers, under the watchful eyes of Megan Thee Stallion, crowned as the “Empress.” The commercial culminates with the colosseum morphing back into a Pepsi can, echoing the iconic “Gladiator” quote, “Are you not entertained?” spoken by Travis Kelce.

This campaign is a sequel not only in its thematic connection to “Gladiator II” but also to a beloved Pepsi tradition of marrying pop culture and beverage marketing. Nearly two decades ago, Pepsi captivated audiences with a gladiator-themed commercial featuring pop icons Britney Spears, Beyoncé, and Pink. Today, Megan Thee Stallion revives this spirit, ahead of her hosting duties at the 2024 MTV VMAs, promising a Gladiator-themed spectacle.

Pepsi is making gameday epic

Jenny Danzi, Head of Brand Marketing at Pepsi emphasizes that this campaign is designed to make every gameday epic, integrating football, music, and cinematic excitement. “This gladiator-inspired campaign is a continuation of our brand’s long history of being on the forefront of culture,” Danzi stated. The campaign is set to cover extensive ground with in-store displays, augmented reality “talking” cans, and a special Fandango movie offer, ensuring Pepsi’s presence is felt everywhere consumers shop.

Beyond the screen, the campaign extends to digital and in-person activations, including the “My Roman Empire” Portrait Generator Tool, which allows fans to transform their selfies into gladiator or Roman royalty avatars. This innovative tool, along with limited-edition collectible cans, enables fans to engage with the campaign in a uniquely interactive way.

Pepsi’s effort to link the release of “Gladiator II” with the NFL season encapsulates a strategic blend of sports, music, and film, showcasing how major brands can effectively bridge diverse entertainment spheres. As the campaign unfolds, it promises to keep the excitement brewing both on and off the field, ensuring that this NFL season will be as epic as the cinematic history it celebrates.

The full press release can be found here.

Related articles