How They Made Classic TV Adverts
Before Computer Effects: How They Made Classic TV Adverts
Remember when television adverts were made using clever tricks and props instead of computers? Let’s look behind the scenes of some of Britain’s favourite TV adverts to see how they created magic without any fancy computer effects.
The Famous Smash Martians
The Smash Martians from the 1970s are one of the best examples of how creative people made amazing adverts using just props and careful filming. These funny robots were actually small models moved by hand, frame by frame, to make them look like they were moving and laughing at us humans and our real potatoes!
The PG Tips Chimps
The PG Tips chimps were real chimps dressed up in clothes! While this wasn’t exactly a special effect, it took lots of hard work. The team had to build small sets that were just right for the chimps, and match up their mouth movements with the voices we hear. These adverts showed that sometimes the best ideas are the simple ones.
The R Whites “Secret Lemonade Drinker”
Back in 1973, this night-time advert used clever lighting and mirrors to make it look magical. The glowing fridge wasn’t done with computers, they just put lights in the right places and used shiny materials to make it glow. Simple but brilliant!
How They Did It
These old adverts used lots of clever tricks:
- Moving models bit by bit to make them look alive
- Building everything by hand – no computer shortcuts!
- Using lights and mirrors to create special looks
- Making sound effects using real things instead of computers
Why These Old Tricks Still Matter
Even though most adverts today use computers to make special effects, some are going back to these old ways of doing things. Why? Because sometimes things that are made by hand just feel more real and friendly.
These Effects Made History
These old ways of making adverts helped create some of Britain’s most loved TV moments. From the funny Smash Martians to the spooky-looking R Whites advert, these tricks made adverts that people still talk about today.
Want to see more classic British TV adverts? Check out our Throwbacks section for more memories!