Summary of Key Points
AI-generated video technology enables creators to repurpose old memes and collective memories into engaging works, such as "The Chinese National Football Team Wins the World Cup" and "Xiao Ming's Journey of Immortal Cultivation," which have become viral on platforms like Bilibili. These videos not only tap into viewers' nostalgia but also demonstrate the potential of AI to lower the barriers to creative expression and encourage public participation. They have even attracted advertisers, marking the arrival of a new era of "massive popular culture."
I. AI's Role in Reviving Old Memes
The essence of AI-generated videos is not to tell new stories but to bring back old memes that are buried in people's memories using artificial intelligence. For example, the 2006 meme-based spoof video "The Chinese Team Wins the World Cup" has been transformed into a 1-hour "documentary" by current creators, who have used AI to recreate memorable moments with more realistic visuals. Memes like "the Pope's white smoke" and "Gao Qiu's rebirth" from "Xiao Ming's Journey of Immortal Cultivation," which were part of internet subculture over a decade ago, are now brought back to the public eye in new forms. These old memes, like digital antiques, have been given a fresh coat of paint by AI, making them both familiar and refreshing.
II. Why Do Viewers Buy In?
The success of these videos lies in their ability to resonate with people's collective memories. For instance, comments on "The Chinese National Football Team Wins the World Cup" often revolve around memories of spending time in internet cafes and brotherly bonds from 20 years ago. "Xiao Ming's Journey of Immortal Cultivation" uses familiar elements like the "primary school-junior high-school-high school" structure and mathematical puzzles as metaphors for magical spells, resonating with those who have experienced the pressure of standardized education. The ending line "I lost my meal card" from "Saint Qian Xian Ren" touches on everyone's dream of being treated gently despite not being a superhero. These videos provide a sense of emotional comfort that is relatable to many.
III. AI Simplifies Creation
In the past, making videos required professional editing and sourcing materials, making it difficult for ordinary people to get involved. However, with AI video generation technology, "zero-barrier creation" has become possible. Creators no longer need to shoot real scenes or hire actors; they simply provide a written script, and AI handles the rest of the production. For example, the creator of "The Chinese National Football Team Wins the World Cup" was able to produce a 1-hour documentary using AI, while the creator of "Xiao Ming's Journey of Immortal Cultivation" combined internet memes with old references to achieve 5 million views in just 25 minutes. AI acts as a powerful assistant, lowering the technical barriers to creativity and allowing more people to express their imagination.
IV. Commercial Potential
AI-generated videos are not only popular but also profitable. For instance, the spoof video "What Does It Mean When the Attack Weapon Is Luo Ji?" (parodying "The Three-Body Problem") included an advertisement during a climactic moment, and viewers found it even more entertaining. This indicates that advertisers recognize the commercial value of such content. While traditional advertising relied on professional teams, AI-generated videos with high views and strong engagement have become a new medium for advertising. This means that AI-driven creativity is no longer just a hobby but a viable business opportunity.
V. The Era of "Massive Popular Culture" with AI
The concept of "massive popular culture" mentioned in the article emphasizes public participation and leadership in creative processes. While internet novels and short videos have always come from the masses, they were either in text form or not considered true works of art. Real-person short dramas were typically produced by professional teams. However, AI allows ordinary people to create content in various genres such as ancient dramas, science fiction, and realistic fantasies, and they can even interact with viewers (e.g., adjusting the plot based on comments). The creator @PUAI_001 transformed a 9-episode short series into a 1-hour video for "The Chinese National Football Team Wins the World Cup" after considering audience suggestions. This model of "everyone being a creator" is reshaping the cultural creation ecosystem, giving the masses more say in what art is produced.
In Conclusion
AI-generated videos are not just amusing tools; they represent a combination of technology, nostalgia, commerce, and public creativity that is quietly transforming the way we consume and produce content. In the future, more ordinary people may use AI to create impressive works, marking a new approach to artistic expression brought about by artificial intelligence.