Instacart's 'Bananas' Commercial Features a Musical Showdown for Super Bowl LX
Instacart's 'Bananas' Takes Center Stage in Super Bowl LX
Instacart, the leading grocery technology platform in North America, is making waves as it prepares for its second appearance at the Super Bowl. The highly anticipated ad, cleverly dubbed Bananas, will air during the Big Game on February 8, 2026, highlighting Instacart's innovative approach to grocery shopping. Directed by renowned filmmaker Spike Jonze, who hasn't directed a Super Bowl ad in two decades, the 30-second spot features actor and filmmaker Ben Stiller along with the talented musician Benson Boone.
The commercial bursts onto the screen with vibrant colors and a spirited retro disco-pop vibe. Set on a dazzling 60-foot stage flooded with orange and green lighting, Stiller and Boone enact a whimsical rivalry while showcasing Instacart’s new feature, the Preference Picker. This interactive tool allows customers to select their ideal banana ripeness - a pivotal inclusion as bananas stand out as Instacart’s top-selling product.
In the ad, the duo comically bickers as they sing about their preferences for bananas, with Boone executing an impressive mid-performance flip that triggers a hilarious racket when Stiller crashes into the drum set, adding a touch of comedic chaos to the cheerful exchange.
Accompanying the 30-second commercial is an extended director's cut that builds upon the ad's playful narrative, providing a deeper exploration of the characters’ rivalry. This longer version enhances the viewing experience, replete with additional dance sequences and humor, ensuring that fans are treated to a lively spectacle of music and wit.
Commitment to Innovation in Grocery Shopping
This ad marks a notable return to the Super Bowl stage for Instacart, signaling the company's unwavering commitment to revolutionizing grocery shopping. Through its various marketing campaigns, Instacart aims to resonate with consumers by emphasizing quality and service. As Laura Jones, the Chief Marketing Officer at Instacart, mentions, the company seeks to showcase its grocery technology leadership, ensuring that every order reflects attention to detail, from selection to delivery.
With Bananas, Instacart's strategy leans into the blend of humor and heart, with Stiller and Boone delivering an entertaining performance under the expert guidance of Jonze. Fans can expect a fusion of nostalgic reference to retro disco aesthetics along with cutting-edge storytelling techniques, capturing the attention of a diverse audience on one of the largest advertising platforms available.
Behind the Scenes: Craftsmanship in Action
The production drew on a multitude of creative talents to realize this vibrant advertisement. Notable contributions include choreographer Robbie Blue, who crafted both synchronized dance routines and playful movements that enhance the overall aesthetic. Production designer Meghan McClure was responsible for constructing the elaborate LED stage, while costume designer Courtney Hoffman enhanced the visuals with her eye-catching, retro-inspired outfits.
Furthermore, the unique approach to filming—using vintage tube cameras—adds an authentic touch to the commercial, evoking a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a modern flair. The ad promises to connect with viewers by portraying a fun, competitive spirit centered around grocery shopping—a shared experience that resonates across generations.
Introducing the Preference Picker
The heart of the campaign is Instacart's newest feature, the Preference Picker. This in-app tool offers customers an intuitive, user-friendly way to choose the ripeness of bananas, with options ranging from