AI in ads? Fake it 'til you make it, I say

"Let's be honest: people don't come to social media for a dose of reality. They're not there for another reminder about the boring, everyday grind. What they're craving is a little escapism. Hollywood knows this all too well, which is why it churns out blockbuster hits filled with superheroes, space epics and dystopian futures instead of documentaries on, say, municipal waste disposal. People want to forget about the real world for a while."

"Escapism is the name of the game on social platforms. It's what keeps users engaged, clicking and sharing. Whether it's an AI-generated visual masterpiece or an outlandish 'what if' scenario, ads that offer a momentary departure from reality are the ones that stop people mid-scroll. This is exactly why brands should take note of the rise of creative, fictional content in their advertising mix."

"Ironically, he's putting out the epitome of 'fake news.' But what people forget is that he's playing directly into his brand. Yes, the posts are ill-considered and shameless - but so is he, no? That's his brand. It fits; it works. Sure, there are haters, but there are many more who love these posts. They find them amusing, bemusing and interesting. In fact, of his last 10 posts, the three most liked are the AI image ones."

People use social media for escapism rather than reminders of everyday reality. Hollywood produces blockbuster fantasies because audiences seek entertainment and temporary escape. Ads that create imaginative or fictional moments, including AI-generated visuals and outlandish scenarios, interrupt scrolling and keep users engaged. Brands gain value by offering brief fantasies rather than only product information. Creative fictional content in advertising can extend emotional resonance beyond the screen. High-profile uses of AI images provoke criticism but can align with a public persona and drive engagement. Audiences often respond to otherworldly content regardless of message, making escapist AI ads attention-driving when executed well.

Read at The Drum