- Instagram Reels flooded with bizarre ‘Mythical Pull’ videos.
- Algorithm change amplifies small creators unexpectedly.
- Users grapple with sudden, unwanted attention from strangers.
Grandpa’s gone viral?
Instagram’s Reels feature has taken an unexpected turn, serving up a smorgasbord of bizarre content dubbed “Mythical Reel Pulls.”
Users are suddenly encountering videos of heavy-breathing seniors, cringeworthy tweens, and random steakhouses in Wyoming. This peculiar phenomenon has left many scratching their heads and wondering if their algorithm has gone rogue.
The surge in odd content may be attributed to Instagram’s recent efforts to amplify smaller creators. By giving every post a chance at virality, regardless of the creator’s follower count, the platform has inadvertently opened Pandora’s box of weirdness.
This change has led to a flood of unpolished, sometimes uncomfortable content from users who may not have expected—or wanted—a sudden influx of attention.
A double-edged sword
While this shift offers exciting opportunities for small creators, it also raises concerns about privacy and user experience.
Many Instagram users, accustomed to sharing with friends, now find themselves thrust into the spotlight.
The influx of mean-spirited comments, particularly on videos featuring young users, highlights the potential downsides of this algorithmic shakeup.
As Instagram continues to refine its approach, the current state of Reels offers a unique, if fleeting, glimpse into the unfiltered corners of social media.
