Jeep kept it simple for their first Super Bowl ad in two years - no gimmicks or over-the-top stunts, Just Harrison Ford, a Jeep, and a solid message about freedom and choice.

The two-minute spot, called "Owner’s Manual," aired during Sunday’s game and was directed by James Mangold (the guy behind "Ford v Ferrari" and the latest "Indiana Jones"). Instead of pushing one specific Jeep model, the ad focused on what Jeep stands for... adventure, freedom, and making your own choices.

Ford looks straight at the camera and says, “We get to write our own stories,” reminding viewers that freedom isn’t free - it’s earned. The ad shows both gas and electric Jeeps, with Ford delivering lines about how differences can be a strength. It ends with him unplugging a hybrid Jeep Wrangler and joking, "This Jeep makes me happy - even though my name is (whispers) Ford."

The ad almost didn’t happen. Jeep wasn’t planning to advertise, and when they finally decided to, they had to scramble for a Super Bowl spot. Ford wasn’t even on board at first, but when they shifted to a serious tone, he changed his mind. The final joke? That happened on set, and Ford ran with it.

In the end, the ad landed well, ranking 12th on Ad Meter and getting praise from People Magazine and Tom’s Guide. Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf summed it up: “If anyone knows adventure, it’s Ford. And now, he’s admitted how happy Jeep makes him.”