AI Yule Log: Holiday Tradition Meets Hilarious Chaos
Secret Level’s “A Very AI Yule Log” brings a quirky, modern twist to the classic holiday fireplace tradition. The 90-minute video, created using AI tools like Midjourney, showcases a cozy cabin scene enhanced by hundreds of surreal, AI-generated 10-second clips. From skateboarding bears to two-headed cats and dancing gingerbread men, the project leans into AI’s signature mix of humor and oddity, with characters occasionally breaking all physical rules by walking through furniture. This chaotic charm pays homage to the imperfection of AI while delivering a visually captivating experience. It even nods to Secret Level founder Jason Zada’s “Elf Yourself” campaign from 17 years ago, solidifying the agency’s holiday-themed creative streak.
The soundtrack, equally intriguing, features AI-composed music by Udio, culminating in a full album titled Christmas From the Void, available on streaming platforms. The combination of AI visuals and music creates moments of mesmerizing synchronicity, an impressive feat given the short production timeline over Thanksgiving break. The project showcases how AI’s blend of “creepy and amusing” outputs can add unexpected magic to seasonal content. It’s a creative risk that resonates with the current fascination—and unease—around generative AI technologies in advertising.
The project’s lighthearted approach to AI sets it apart in a year filled with heavy-handed AI experiments. Zada describes it as a way to embrace holiday cheer while embracing the “beautiful mess” of AI, aiming to delight viewers of all ages. Beyond its entertainment value, the video serves as a playful commentary on technology’s role in reshaping creative traditions. It’s the kind of content perfect for holiday parties—simultaneously cozy, hilarious, and thought-provoking.
Full story at AdAge.
