Salesforce | “Gold Rush”

Matthew McConaughey rides through a Western landscape in Salesforce’s “Gold Rush.” But instead of hunting treasure, he’s talking about data—and how it’s only valuable when used wisely. The ad draws a clear line: Data is the new gold, but AI needs ethics. Salesforce’s message? Don’t just use AI. Ask more of it.

The Formula (That Works at Any Budget)

Metaphor + Modern Insight = Clear Message

The gold rush is a powerful visual stand-in for today’s data craze. Salesforce warns: it’s not about finding data—it’s about using it right.
Lesson: Simple metaphors can unlock complex topics like AI and data ethics.

Star Power + Style = Strong Recall

McConaughey’s voice and presence ground the Western theme. The style is consistent, serious, and cinematic.
Lesson: A well-matched celebrity and tone can boost brand recall and credibility.

Slogan + Ethics = Brand Trust

“Ask More of AI” challenges businesses to think beyond automation. It’s a call for responsible, ethical use of data.
Lesson: Positioning your brand around values can differentiate you in a crowded tech market.

Humor Breakdown

The ad doesn’t go for big laughs—it uses tone and setting to keep things light. McConaughey’s laid-back delivery adds charm, even as he talks about serious topics like AI governance.

Lesson: Subtle humor can ease the weight of complex messaging without diluting the message.

Final Verdict

Salesforce’s “Gold Rush” hits the mark: bold visuals, a clear metaphor, and a powerful call for responsible AI. With McConaughey leading the way, it feels trustworthy, polished, and purpose-driven. It’s not just another AI ad—it’s a reminder that tech needs ethics.

BRAVE-o-meter Score:
B-7 | R-9 | A-7 | V-8 | E-9
BRAVE – 8.0/10

Learn more about Salesforce:
Website: salesforce.com
LinkedIn: Salesforce on LinkedIn

(See what BRAVE means in our collection)

Understanding the B.R.A.V.E. Scoring System

The B.R.A.V.E. scoring system uses AI to deliver an unbiased evaluation of top-of-the-funnel B2B brand ads. It measures potential impact, memorability, and effectiveness by assessing five key components of a video ad or commercial. This system gauges an ad's capacity to drive brand recall and enhance salience, ensuring that creative work not only captures attention but also leaves a lasting impression.

What B.R.A.V.E. Stands For:

Each letter represents a key factor in determining an ad’s success:

  • BBoldness: Is the ad original, creative, or daring? Does it break away from generic B2B marketing, or is it just another forgettable corporate video?
  • RRelevance: Does it connect with a real buyer pain point? Is it addressing a specific frustration or need, or just listing product features?
  • AAttention: Does it grab and hold attention in the first few seconds? Is it visually or tonally engaging, or easy to skip?
  • VVibe: Does it create an emotional response—laughter, recognition, or surprise? Or does it feel like just another corporate info dump?
  • EEffectiveness: Will buyers remember the brand when they need a solution? Does the ad make an impact that lasts beyond the moment?

How It’s Applied to B2B Video Rating

Each video is scored 1 to 10 in all five categories, based on how well it meets the criteria. The total score (out of 50) is then divided by 5 to give a final B.R.A.V.E. score out of 10.

For example:

  • An ad scoring B-8 | R-9 | A-7 | V-6 | E-8 has a total of 38/50.
  • The final B.R.A.V.E. score is 7.6/10.

Why It Matters

B2B ads often struggle with being bland, forgettable, or ineffective. The B.R.A.V.E. system ensures they are judged by their ability to break through, connect with buyers, and drive action.

Simply put: If your ad isn’t B.R.A.V.E., it’s invisible.

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