Nostalgia Rules in Super Bowl Ads

Yes, there were still the requisite ads using slapstick violence to get a laugh, or objectifying women—but the reigning theme of this year's Super Bowl commercials was nostalgia. Thanks to the economy, many advertisers used familiar faces to pitch products, writes Stuart Elliott in the New York Times. A few of the most notable, which you can watch in the gallery:

• Snickers: Featuring Betty White and Abe Vigoda.
• Teleflora: Uses the voice of Don Rickles.
• Volkswagen: Stevie Wonder makes an appearance at the end.
• HomeAway: Brings back the Griswolds of Vacation fame.

• Census Bureau: The spot, directed by Christopher Guest, is reminiscent of his films dating back to 1984's This Is Spinal Tap.
• Michelob Ultra: Features Lance Armstrong, whom the Times includes in a list of "vintage athletes."
• Taco Bell: Brings back a rapping Charles Barkley.
• Dr. Pepper: Uses Kiss to tout its cherry-flavored soda.
• Honda: Busts out the Kool and the Gang music for its Accord Crosstour ad.
• Kia: A Sorento ad prominently features nostalgic toys like the sock monkey.

For the complete list, click here. For more nostalgic ads, including Brett Favre and the Super Bowl Shufflers, click here.
(More Super Bowl stories.)