Christmas Truce Ad

It was 100 years ago this Christmas that British and German soldiers came out of their World War I foxholes on Christmas Day to greet each other, exchange gifts and play a game of football in what later became known as The Christmas Truce. It only lasted a day, then they had to go back to shooting at each other.

Sainsbury’s, a UK supermarket chain, partnered with The Royal British Legion to produce this video as their official Christmas ad. There’s another video, with more information about the Christmas Truce, and a behind-the-scenes video here. And lest you think there’s no mercenary aspect to the project, the chocolate bar featured in the story is for sale at Sainbury’s, while supplies last.

The reviews are mixed. One newspaper pointed out how Sainsbury’s has supported the the Royal British Legion for twenty years, and profits from the candy bars go to support them, while others consider it disrespectful to use the war centennial to sell groceries. (via Viral Viral Videos)