AI Slop for the Holidays: Why McDonald’s and Coca-Cola’s AI Ads Fell Flat
Tessa Quinn and Carmen Alverez unpack the backlash to AI-generated holiday ads, focusing on why campaigns from McDonald’s and Coca-Cola struck many viewers as hollow instead of heartwarming. They dig into what “AI slop” actually means, what brands misread about nostalgia and craft, and how to use AI without losing trust.
Neural Newscast — Episode Notes
Holiday ads are supposed to feel warm, human, and weirdly specific—like they remember you. This episode looks at a recent critique making the rounds: AI holiday ads from big brands like McDonald’s and Coca-Cola that many viewers felt were… well, soulless. We talk about what went wrong, why people noticed instantly, and what better AI-assisted creative could look like.
What we cover
- 🎄 “AI slop” explained: what people mean when they say an ad looks or feels like generated filler
- 🍟 McDonald’s & Coca-Cola as examples: why iconic brands face extra scrutiny when they automate “magic”
- 🧠 The uncanny holiday problem: tiny details in faces, motion, lighting, and storytelling that break the spell
- 🧵 Nostalgia isn’t a filter: why “vibes” aren’t enough when audiences want authenticity and craft
- 🧑🎨 The creative labor angle: what audiences assume about cost-cutting, jobs, and replacing artists
- 🔍 How to do AI ads better: human direction, clear intent, real cinematography, and transparent attribution
- 🧾 A viewer’s checklist: how to spot low-effort AI creative—and how brands can avoid it
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Disclaimer: Neural Newscast is AI-assisted, human reviewed. View our AI Transparency Policy at NeuralNewscast.com.
Creators and Guests
Producer
Chad Thompson
Chad Thompson is the producer of Neural Newscast, bringing his expertise in technology, cybersecurity, media production, DJing, music production, and radio broadcasting to deliver high-quality, engaging news content. A futurist and early adopter, Chad has a deep passion for innovation, storytelling, and automation, ensuring that Neural Newscast stays at the forefront of modern news delivery. With a background in security operations and a career leading cyber defense teams, he combines technical acumen with creative vision to produce informative and compelling broadcasts. In addition to producing the podcast, Chad creates its original music, blending his technical expertise with his creative talents to enhance the show's unique sound. Outside of Neural Newscast, Chad is a dedicated father, electronic music enthusiast, and builder of creative projects, always exploring new ways to merge technology with storytelling.
