The Rise of AI-Generated Video Franchises: From Viral Grannies to Underwater Aunties
Forget short-form video being a young person’s game. A new wave of creators is proving that AI video generation isn’t just about fleeting memes – it’s building surprisingly robust, and rapidly expanding, entertainment franchises. Instagram account Granny Spills gained 1.8 million followers in just three months, demonstrating the potent appeal of AI-driven characters and narratives. This isn’t a flash in the pan; it’s a glimpse into a future where AI dramatically lowers the barrier to entry for world-building and character development.
Democratizing Creativity: The Power of AI Video Tools
The explosion of accessible AI video tools like Kling, Luma, and Midjourney is at the heart of this shift. Previously, creating high-quality video content required significant investment in equipment, personnel, and time. Now, individuals can experiment with complex visuals and narratives with relative ease. Daryl Anselmo, a digital artist who has posted an AI-generated video every day since 2021, exemplifies this spirit of experimentation. His project, “Back up slop,” showcases the artistic potential of these tools, evolving from landscapes to increasingly surreal and unsettling “body horror” themes.
Beyond the Meme: Artistic Expression and Narrative Depth
Anselmo’s work, exhibited at galleries like the Grand Palais Immersif in Paris, demonstrates that AI video isn’t limited to simple gags. Pieces like “feel the agi,” featuring a bot peeling open its skull, push the boundaries of visual storytelling. Similarly, his “Tot and Bothered” – a midnight diner scene populated by anthropomorphic Tater Tots – evokes a distinct mood and atmosphere, resembling an art-house film more than a typical social media post. This highlights a crucial point: AI isn’t replacing creativity; it’s augmenting it, allowing artists to explore previously impossible concepts.
Building Worlds, One AI Video at a Time
One of the most significant implications of AI video generation is its ability to facilitate the creation of recurring characters and universes. This is evident in the success of Niceaunties, created by Lim, who draws inspiration from “auntie culture” in Singapore. She’s building a world where elderly Asian women are reimagined in fantastical scenarios, like the viral video “Auntlantis,” depicting them as industrial mermaids. This demonstrates how AI can be used to challenge cultural stereotypes and create empowering narratives.
The “Granny Spills” Phenomenon: Franchising with AI
Perhaps the most striking example of AI-driven franchise building is Granny Spills. Creators Eric Suerez and Adam Vaserstein have fully embraced an AI-powered workflow, from scriptwriting to scene construction, effectively functioning as creative directors. The account’s rapid growth and expansion – now including Black and Asian grannies, and crossover videos – showcase the potential for building interconnected universes and maximizing audience engagement. This approach isn’t just about creating content; it’s about building a brand.
The Future of AI Video: Personalized Entertainment and Beyond
The trend towards AI-generated video franchises is likely to accelerate. As AI models become more sophisticated, we can expect to see even more realistic and compelling characters and narratives. Furthermore, advancements in personalization will allow creators to tailor content to individual viewers, creating truly immersive and engaging experiences. The ability to rapidly iterate and experiment with different concepts will also become increasingly important, allowing creators to quickly identify and capitalize on emerging trends. Statista projects significant growth in the AI video generation market, indicating a strong future demand.
Ultimately, the rise of AI-generated video franchises represents a fundamental shift in the landscape of digital entertainment. It’s a democratization of creativity, empowering individuals to build worlds and tell stories in ways that were previously unimaginable. What new characters and universes will emerge as AI video technology continues to evolve? Share your predictions in the comments below!