What if is an AI-driven video that pokes fun at the 2024 US political campaign, blending deep fakes, electric cars, and environmental tropes. It takes viewers on a wild ride through consumerism and the American dream, all seen through the eyes of a child.
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"What If" is a soul powered music video that takes an abstract, high-concept approach to encapsulate the American state of affairs, using metaphor and symbolism to explore unexpected friendships among political figures and deliver the broader message that intolerance is learned, not inherent.
The video weaves together two interconnected story arcs. The first follows a young boy with an imaginary friend—an orange mohawk squirrel—who guides him through life's challenges and inspires him to break free from the cycle of poverty. This whimsical creature embodies the innocence of youth and the potential for empathy and understanding to transcend societal barriers.
The second arc introduces a human-sized, orange-haired squirrel navigating a surreal landscape populated by exaggerated portrayals of prominent figures such as Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Angela Merkel, Vladimir Putin, and Elmo. These figures represent various facets of political and internal affairs, highlighting the contradictions and absurdities within global leadership and governance. Interspersed throughout are scenes featuring a blue Cadillac, symbolizing the American economy and the race toward electric vehicles, including a memorable moment where dancing Asian workers emphasize global economic connections and technological shifts.
An additional layer is brought in through a drummer character inspired by Kamala Harris—not portrayed as Harris herself, but as a manifestation of her influence. This character beats different drums, each representing varied political perspectives, serving as a metaphor for the diverse voices and influence within American politics.
The video concludes with an aerial fly-through of endless blackish-blue smoke, symbolizing the fall of oil and gas, marking the collapse of an industry that once fueled global power. This dark, atmospheric imagery underscores the end of an era, driving home the video's themes of transformation and the impermanence of unchecked dominance.