Pedro Pascal is no stranger to practically every aspect of media and pop culture. From television shows to films, music videos, commercials, voice acting, at this point, he's nearly done it all.
2025 is already proving to be a busy year for Pascal with the scheduled arrival of several films such as Freaky Tales and The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and the highly anticipated The Last of Us season 2. But one of the biggest surprises was his involvement in a new Apple ad for the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation.
The ad, which is rightfully titled, A Film By Spike Jonze, is a story of imagination and music, that doesn't shy away from the realities of life. Although the story can easily be interpreted in a number of ways, from what we gathered, it follows Pascal after a falling out with a dear friend or romantic partner.
As he enters the streets of the cold, bland city, placing the AirPods 4 into his ears, a song begins to play that easily relates to his current situation of heartbreak and loss. He passes others going about their day, appearing equally as miserable and reclusive.
That is until he's interrupted by a man asking for directions. In this moment Pascal becomes distracted by a happier and brighter version of himself.
The ad follows this version of Pascal who begins to dance to a new song, whilst the city around him transforms into a vibrant and lush world of flowers and color. Those around him are equally as colorful, dancing with tenacity and passion.
But it's the lyrics from the song he's currently listening to, that Pascal says so affirmatively to the camera, to the viewers watching, "You're perfect. Now work it." It's those words that resonate with the Pascal of the opening, who suddenly finds life to be not so bleak, easily channeling the simple yet powerful message of, "Everything will be ok".
The man who stopped him for directions leaves and Pascal changes the song, walking with a small smile, passing others who fluctuate between the dull to dazzling colors on their clothes. For an advertisement, this gets the message across perfectly.
Since the dawn of time music and storytelling go hand in hand. Stories are told simply through music, instrumental, and lyrics alike.
Music often inspires stories, becoming the driving force behind them (speaking from firsthand experience). The underlying message of life, in all of its unpredictability from good to bad, is manageable.
Bad days are never forever and make good days all the more appreciated. But no matter the occasion a little music goes a long way.
And this isn't just happening to Pascal, it happens to all of us, whether we live in a city or the countryside. You can watch the full ad below and come to your own conclusion.
Stream The Last of Us season 1 on HBO MAX.