Viral AI-generated videos styled to resemble Lego animations are drawing attention from researchers and experts, who warn they may be part of a wider propaganda effort linked to Iran.
At first glance, the clips appear similar to animated scenes from a children’s film. However, the content often includes intense political messaging, including depictions of war, global conflict, and figures such as Donald Trump.
The videos have spread rapidly across social media platforms, reaching millions of viewers. Many feature dramatic storytelling that portrays Iran as resisting global political powers, particularly the United States.
A BBC podcast investigation, Top Comment, spoke with a representative of one of the accounts producing these videos. The individual, who asked to be identified as “Mr Explosive,” is linked to a media group known as Explosive Media.
He initially denied working for any government but later acknowledged that the Iranian state acts as a “customer” of their content, suggesting a closer relationship than previously stated.
The videos often present highly emotional narratives. Some clips include references to controversial political topics and symbolic imagery intended to shape public perception of global events.
Experts say the content reflects a new form of digital influence. According to propaganda researcher Emma Briant, these AI-generated clips go beyond simple misinformation and represent a more advanced form of online persuasion.
She warned that such content has already reached hundreds of millions of views, particularly during periods of geopolitical tension.
The production team behind Explosive Media reportedly consists of fewer than ten people. They use AI tools to create fast-moving animated clips designed for maximum online engagement.
The group claims it uses a Lego-style visual format because it is globally recognisable and easy for audiences to understand across cultures.
Some of the videos are widely shared by accounts linked to state media in Iran and also appear on Russian-aligned social platforms, increasing their global reach.
In interviews, the creator defended the content, saying it highlights political “truths” and global injustices. Critics, however, argue that the videos blur the line between entertainment and political messaging.
Experts continue to raise concerns about how AI-generated media is reshaping modern propaganda, making it more visually appealing, emotionally engaging, and harder to identify as manipulation.
