This spot opens on a picturesque scene of a father and daughter in the middle of a forest, bird watching. Or so we think. As the story unfolds, we realize that it’s not birds they’re spying through binoculars, but breakfast – and specifically pancakes. We watch as they enthusiastically discover IHOP’s blueberry pancakes and original buttermilk pancakes. The daughter then scans the forest and is shocked to find a new and exotic-looking breakfast item as she exclaims, “Holy pancakes! Look at that pancake, dad!” They’re immediately corrected by a rugged Breakfast Hunter whose been in full camouflage next to them the whole time. One can only venture to guess how long he’s been tracking this dish as he explains to them that they have, in fact, discovered the new King’s Hawaiian French Toast Combo from IHOP. He hands the little girl his “forkbow” as he proceeds to sprint towards this rare and delicious dish to capture it with his bare hands.
Titled “Breakfast Watchers,” this IHOP ad was directed by Eric Wareheim, who is one half of the comedy duo Tim & Eric. The commercial was produced by production company PRETTYBIRD. Tabletop portion of the piece was helmed by Trevor Shepard of Woodshop.
