7 TVB Ads That Most Hong Kongers Remember

Hong Kong's TV advertising culture is rich and diverse, especially when it comes to TVB advertisements, many of which have become an indelible part of Hong Kongers' memories. This article will take you on a journey to revisit 7 classic TV commercials that not only successfully promoted their brands but also became long-lasting culture references in Hong Kong over the decades. Whether through heartwarming melodies or humorous expressions, these advertisements are unforgettable. Now, let's look back at these classic moments.

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  1. Vita Chocolate Milk (1992)
  2. Cadbury Chocolate "Eyebrow Dance" (2009)
  3. Sze Hing Loong "We grow with you" (1991)
  4. McDonald's "Aquatic Symphony" (1997)
  5. Kam Heung Golden "Dinner Time!" (1997)
  6. Bigen Hair Colour Conditioner "Speedy" (1988)
  7. Wing Wah Lap Cheong (1995)

1. Vita Chocolate Milk (1992)

No list of classic TVB ads is complete without mentioning Vita’s iconic 1992 chocolate milk advertisement, accompanied by its unforgettable theme song. This charming animated ad features a playful brown piglet and a white cow, representing chocolate and milk, respectively. The two animals initially engage in a friendly rivalry, each trying to outshine the other. But they soon come to a “truce,” symbolizing the perfect balance of flavours in Vita's chocolate milk. The catchy theme song quickly won over young kids and secondary school students—the product’s primary target audience—cementing its place as a beloved memory for a generation of Hong Kong viewers.

2. Cadbury Chocolate "Eyebrow Dance" (2009)

This entertaining advertisement aired on TVB in 2009 and quickly sparked a "viral" sensation, despite the internet not being as dominant as it is today. The ad begins with two children preparing for a photo shoot when the photographer unexpectedly steps away to take a phone call. Seizing the moment, the boy starts playing the song "Don't Stop The Rock" by Freestyle with his watch, prompting the two to "dance" along to the beat using just their eyebrows. The Hong Kong version concludes with the catchy slogan "Share The Joy," while the British version opts for "A Glass and A Half Full of Joy." This humorous ad inspired many to join in on the eyebrow dance trend, leading to appearances in news segments and TV programs featuring celebrities and personalities replicating the dance, solidifying its place in pop culture.

3. Sze Hing Loong "We grow with you" (1991)

Another beloved Hong Kong classic ad features an unforgettable tune and delivers a heartwarming message about growing alongside consumers through various phases of their lives. This 30-second narrative begins with a boy and a girl enjoying after-school Sze Hing Loong snacks. As the story progresses, we see a time jump to their adulthood, where they are now married and grocery shopping with their daughter, purchasing the same snacks for her. This moment evokes nostalgia for the couple and reinforces their connection to their childhood. Most Hong Kongers, especially those from the last millennial generation, are likely to remember this advertisement fondly from their youth, making it a cherished part of local culture.

4. McDonald's "Aquatic Symphony" (1997)

This imaginative advertisement from 1997 features a man who brings a McDonald's meal into an aquarium. As he prepares to take a bite of a french fry, he notices that the fish are watching him intently. Inspired, he begins to mimic a symphony conductor, using a fry in each hand to orchestrate the fish's movements. The playful scene takes a turn when he reveals a fish fillet burger, causing the fish—initially intrigued by his food—to scatter in fright. This clever narrative not only showcases the delicious appeal of McDonald's offerings but also highlights the fun and whimsical brand image, concluding with the memorab slogan, "Happiness is priceless at McDonald's."

5. Kam Heung Golden "Dinner Time!" (1997)

This Kam Heung Golden Rice classic advertisement first aired during prime time on TVB in 1997 and has since become memorable. The ad features three different housewives calling out "Dinner time!" to their children and husbands who are outside playing, only to be ignored as they continue their activities. However, everything changes when the fourth housewife prepares Kam Heung Golden Rice. The enticing aroma wafts through the air, drawing the children and men to her house for dinner. This clever portrayal highlights the irresistible appeal of the rice, symbolizing the essence of family mealtime and the power of good food to bring loved ones together.

6. Bigen Hair Colour Conditioner "Speedy" (1988)

This simple yet effective advertisement quickly became a classic after airing on TVB in 1988. Delivered by actor Kenneth Tsang, the message is clear and direct: "Got grey hair? Do what I do. Use Bigen Hair Colour Conditioner to darken your hair instantly. Got it!" This memorable ad ran for several years in prime time slots and became a fixture in Hong Kong households. These few lines resonated deeply, making them instantly recognizable to most Hong Kongers from the 80s well into the early 2000s. Its straightforward approach and catchy delivery ensured that the ad left a lasting impression on audiences.

7. Wing Wah Lap Cheong (1995)

Classic TVB advertisements are renowned for their memorable theme songs, and this 1995 Wing Wah commercial is no exception. Nearly every millennial can sing it by heart. The ad showcases the production of lap cheong (Chinese sausage) with engaging close-up shots of the product, while a catchy theme song underscores its local significance and appeal within the Yuen Long community. It highlights the exceptional quality of the sausages, made from natural ingredients and sun-dried to enhance their rich flavour. This combination of visuals and music captures the essence of a beloved local tradition, making it unforgettable for generations.

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