Carlton Does The Carlton For Starbucks

What is the key to creating a memorable TV spot? A celebrity spokesperson playing piano in a hot tub, fire-breathing dragons, or a flatbread-themed parody of a Sir Mix-A-Lot song are all terrific, A+ bets. Can't go wrong with any of those ideas. But may we never forget that simplicity can be just as effective. Sometimes, all it takes to make a great ad is a GIF of an iconic moment from a popular ‘90s sitcom plus a snappy ‘60s pop hit. In a commercial for the "Win Starbucks for Life" contest, a legendary clip from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air's Season 2 Christmas episode plays on a loop, and the end product is magnificent.

Cartlon Banks (Alfonso Ribeiro) does the Carlton Dance on repeat while “It’s Not Unusual” by Tom Jones plays. (I mean, of course the commercial features "It's Not Unusual" by Tom Jones. To use any other song would be disrespectful.) That's it. That's the entire Starbucks ad. And it's nothing short of perfect. To say anything else would be disrespectful.

On Jan. 5, 2015 the "Win Starbucks for Life" contest will end. I assume that means Jan. 5, 2015 will be the the day this perfect ad will pack its bags and hit the road for good. I miss it already.

MAY IT REMAIN ON THE INTERNET FOREVER.

Image: Starbucks Coffee/YouTube