We spoke to the man making viral Lego-style AI videos for Iran. Experts say it’s powerful propaganda
AI-Driven Propaganda in Lego Style: Iran’s Viral Campaign
These videos, resembling scenes from a Lego film but more dynamic and intense, blend striking imagery with political messaging. Featuring elements like fallen children, military confrontations, and references to Donald Trump, they are designed to promote Iran’s narrative. Experts argue they represent a potent form of propaganda, leveraging AI to reach global audiences effectively.
The Creator Behind the Clips
For the BBC’s Top Comment podcast, we spoke with a representative from Explosive Media, a key producer of these AI videos. He requested to be called Mr. Explosive, describing himself as a skilled social media strategist. Initially, he denied ties to the Iranian government, but later acknowledged the regime as a “customer” — a term he had not previously used publicly.
“Iran is the one seeking truth and freedom,” he said. “They’re fighting against those who align with cannibals.”
The videos emphasize Iran’s role as a global resistance force against the U.S. Despite their exaggerated visuals, they have sparked widespread engagement. One clip shows Trump descending into a storm of “Epstein file” documents, accompanied by rap lyrics about secrets leaking and pressure rising. Another depicts George Floyd under a boot while declaring Iran’s support for those wronged by the American system.
Power of AI in Propaganda
Dr. Emma Briant, a propaganda analyst, calls these clips “highly sophisticated,” noting that terms like “slopaganda” — coined in a 2024 academic paper — fall short of capturing their impact. AI-generated content has reportedly been viewed hundreds of millions of times during the conflict. In a video call, Mr. Explosive appeared with red and green lighting, the Iranian flag’s colors, and a green-feathered helmet symbolizing Shia warrior Husayn ibn Ali.
He explained the use of Lego-style graphics: “It’s a world language. The visuals are universal, but the message is tailored.” Iranian and Russian state media frequently share these clips, amplifying their reach to millions. When asked about the Epstein files, he said: “It’s to show the audience the kind of confrontation they’re witnessing.”
“Possibly there was no lost pilot, no rescue operation. Their main goal was to steal uranium from Iran,” he claimed.
Mr. Explosive disputes claims that a U.S. pilot was rescued by special forces in April 2025, arguing the focus was on capturing uranium. He also criticized Trump’s statements, asserting: “Only 13% of what Mr. Trump says is based on facts.” This alternative narrative has resonated with some Western audiences, as seen in a TikTok influencer’s endorsement: “The Lego videos broke the story about the recent U.S. pilot mission that wasn’t a rescue but a special ops mission for uranium.”
Strategic Use of Technology
Dr. Tine Munk, a cyber warfare expert, labels Iran’s approach “defensive memetic warfare,” a tactic to counter U.S. rhetoric. The videos, now more detailed, include specific Gulf locations like power stations and airports being destroyed by Iranian missiles. While some details are factually questionable, their visual simplicity and emotional appeal have fueled their virality.
Explosive Media’s strategy highlights how AI enables authoritarian regimes to bypass traditional media and connect directly with Western viewers. By using tools trained on Western data, they create content that feels familiar yet carries a distinct ideological message. This method, Briant notes, represents a new era of influence, where propaganda is both accessible and impactful.