It seems like every week, there’s a new viral AI marketing trend lighting up our feeds.
First, it was hyper-realistic AI avatars. Then, Studio Ghibli-inspired portraits. Now? People are turning themselves into fully-rendered action figures straight out of a superhero movie or 90s toy commercial. These AI-driven experiences are fun, nostalgic, and endlessly shareable. And just like that, millions of users are engaging with content they wouldn’t have dreamed of creating themselves a year ago. The question is…
Should we jump on the AI trend train… or wait it out?
Let’s talk about what these trends really mean for creative industries, brand storytelling, and where ethical lines should (and shouldn’t) be drawn.
Want to learn some new AI tools? Check out our Top 5 for 2025.
AI Marketing Trends: From Cool Toy to Cultural Moment
The rise of trends like Ghibli-style portraits or action figure mock-ups signals something bigger than just novelty- they show how far consumer-grade AI has come. Today’s tools can stylise a selfie in seconds, turn voices into songs, or create a whole video trailer based on a single photo.
And people love it. These AI outputs:
- Tap into nostalgia (Studio Ghibli, ‘80s toy aesthetics)
- Empower self-expression (putting yourself in a fantasy world)
- Feel magical and personal, even though they’re algorithmically generated
From a marketing perspective, they also drive insane engagement. People aren’t just consuming content, they’re generating and sharing their own, with your brand possibly in the mix.
What Are The Ethics Behind AI Trends?
While these AI tools are fun, the conversation isn’t all positive and it shouldn’t be. The ethics behind AI-generated art and content are murky at best.
Most of these models are trained on massive datasets, many of which include the work of real human creators who never gave consent. That Ghibli-style filter? It’s likely pulling from thousands of fan artworks, illustrations, and concept designs created by artists who aren’t credited or compensated.
So while users see a cool filter, artists see a system that replicates their style without permission.
The same goes for the action figure trend. The aesthetic of collectible toy photography and character design is something people have built careers on. When AI reproduces that without attribution, it raises real concerns about creative theft.
Where Brands Need to Be Especially Careful With AI Marketing
If you’re a business, hopping on an AI marketing trend isn’t just a matter of can, it’s a matter of should. Before diving in, consider:
- Was this trend built on ethically sourced data?
- Are we replacing a creative process we’d usually hire someone for?
- Will our audience see this as fun or exploitative?
Because here’s the thing: doing something “because everyone else is” is not a strategy. Audiences are getting savvier about how brands use AI. If it feels opportunistic or tone-deaf, the backlash can undo any short-term engagement gain.
So… Should You Ever Use AI Trends in Your Marketing?
Absolutely- but intentionally.
AI can be an amazing tool when used to enhance, not replace. Imagine:
- A Ghibli-style animation campaign that credits and partners with real illustrators
- Action figure mockups that include a “designed with AI + human artist” label
- AI-generated assets used to inspire moodboards or concept art- not final deliverables
The future of AI in marketing is collaborative, not extractive. And consumers will appreciate brands that lead with creativity, transparency, and respect for the people behind the pixels.
What We Recommend to Brands
At our agency, we approach AI like any new marketing tool: with curiosity, strategy, and a big-picture mindset.
Before launching a campaign that leans into a trending AI format, ask:
- How does this align with our brand values?
- Are we crediting or compensating the creative communities involved?
- Is this a momentary stunt, or part of a larger story we’re telling?
If you’re unsure, we’re here to help you think it through. We stay on top of what’s trending- not just to follow, but to guide.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
We’re curious:
- Have you seen (or tried) the latest AI trends like action figure mockups or Ghibli portraits?
- Do you think these trends are harmless fun- or a problem?
- Would you feel more comfortable using AI if creators could opt in or be compensated?
Drop us a comment or reach out- let’s talk about what AI means for your brand.
Need Help Navigating AI Marketing Trends with Strategy and Ethics?
At BuzzGen, we help brands harness emerging tech, without losing sight of what makes them human. Whether you’re exploring AI-generated content, looking to ride the next viral wave, or just want to future-proof your marketing strategy, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s chat about how to make AI work for your brand—not against your values.
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