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Aardman Shares ‘Pint-Sized Perfection’ Spot for Thatchers Cider

The multi-Academy Award-winning stop-motion animation studio delivers a charming 40 second TV spot for the Somerset family cider maker, debuting May 25.

Thatchers Cider has unveiled a new TV commercial this week in collaboration with the multi-Academy Award-winning stop-motion animation studio Aardman.

The spot utilizes stop-motion to bring the viewer through the gates of Thatchers’ own Myrtle Farm home, showing the Somerset family cider maker’s dedication to achieve Pint-Sized Perfection. The commercial tells the story of the brand’s 120-year commitment to crafting the tastiest ciders, resonating with consumers who seek out values of authenticity and sustainability in their cider choice. 

Aardman once again creates perfectly crafted hand-made miniature worlds to bring Thatchers’ expertise to the screen. Some familiar faces make an appearance throughout the commercial, including fourth generation cider maker Martin Thatcher and Myrtle, the family dog. The iconic Thatchers hot air balloon can also be spotted.

Martin Thatcher, who has had cameo appearances in all of Thatchers’ recent TV ads, says, “Partnering with Aardman, a truly iconic brand with such amazing creative genius, and situated in the West Country as we are, allows us to introduce consumers to a new light-hearted, storytelling creative about our ciders. With total commitment to quality, perfection and sustainability every step of the way, the commercial shines a spotlight on the Thatchers world in this contemporary way.”

Thatcher continues, “This is a film that allows people to step into the world of Thatchers. Our passion for creating the most perfect cider is reflected in the genius of Aardman, whose animators have recreated life at Myrtle Farm in the most minute and exacting detail, from our iconic barn doors, to our hot air balloon where the basket was handwoven out of real straw. Fabric from our own workwear has even been used to create some of the costumes. In partnering with Aardman we’ve been in awe of their attention to detail, their pursuit of perfection, which truly resonates with all that we strive for at Thatchers.”  

Pint-Sized Perfection was conceptualized by creative communications agency Bray Leino, directed by Aardman’s Will Studd, and produced by Danny Gallagher.

Studd states, “I am thrilled to be directing a new advert for Thatchers, a cider brand that shares our passion for craft and attention to detail. As a paid-up cider enthusiast, I am drinking in the opportunity to bring the Thatchers family, farm, dog, and selected staff members to life with detailed puppets and sets. Being able to collaborate with such a well-established South West brand on this project is an honour, I'm eager to create a beautiful film that captures the essence of Thatchers and their focus on perfection.”

A team of 40 creatives at Aardman were involved in the project, who worked with over 480 hours of footage for the 40 second commercial.

Pint-Sized Perfection will launch on linear TV, broadcast video on demand, cinema, and YouTube, on May 25. The campaign will continue through August.

Laurén Alexa's picture

Cybersecurity specialist by day, investigative journalist by night.