Think back over the year’s memorable ads and what do you remember? We’d venture you’ll almost certainly first think of chatty meerkats. But just behind that, you’ll probably be recalling the epic Virgin Media efforts.

In a memorable campaign with movie-style production values, its TV spots packed in shape-shifting spaceships, big friendly giants, galloping Cossacks, car chases and Mazzy Star’s Hope Sandoval. It was Powerful Stuff, indeed. But perhaps the best thing about the spots was that they communicated to the man in the street in no uncertain terms just how fibre optic broadband and on-demand TV services have the potential to transform our viewing habits.

Right now, for instance, a glance at Virgin Media’s winter schedule reveals a slew of quality programming. Not least HBO fare such as Generation Kill and Six Feet Under - both of which ought to be just the tonic you need for fluffy Xmas movie fare coming your way elsewhere this year.