From TikTok Edit to Cultural Change
Graphics by Téa Sklar
We all remember where we were when the Timothee Chalamet edit with “Playdate” by Melanie Martinez dropped. Truly a cultural shift during the pandemic, when all we had was our phones. Although “edits” were somewhat popular before this, I feel that after this Timothee Chalamet one, these edits were never the same. From celebrities to fictional TV characters, edits on TikTok, and so many other platforms, took the internet by storm and became a whole new subgenre online. All fans had were a couple clips, a good song, and a dream, and truly, the world was never the same.
An “edit,” based off of the TikTok video style, is a compilation of clips, where a celebrity, show, movie, song, any person or media could be shown off. From Jacob Elordi to Stranger Things, edits are fans' way of showing their appreciation for what they love. In doing so, companies and corporations do what they do in modern times, leech onto the “edit” trend.
A specific instance I remember is the Kamala Harris HQ account on TikTok, an account highlighting the political candidate, which fully emerged into the culture of the app. Everyday during the 2024 "coconut tree” summer, whoever was clocked into running the account like a full time job, an edit was always present. Although politics deals with heavy and important topics, through utilizing an “edit,” it allowed for the public to get a better understanding of Kamala herself, as well keep things somewhat lighthearted. It truly shows that edits have even seeped into the political world, becoming a new political outlet for those to vote, especially in the younger generations.
More recently, edits are able to bring back certain shows, songs, or movie characters. Basically coming from nowhere, Regina George from Mean Girls (2004) and Rodrick from Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010) have been shipped (idealize a romantic relationship; whoever started this is lowkey a genius). It’s paired these two characters from completely different movies and has brought them back into the conversation, even having people dress up as them for Halloween. I feel as though fans are the true backbone of society.
Throughout time, people have always had other people or things they look up to. Whether it's a celebrity, historical figure, or movie, fans keep the culture alive. So, when these edits first came onto our phones, there was no doubt they’d take over the internet. They’re such easy and fun ways to promote any type of media, allowing for huge companies to latch onto something so universally loved by a younger audience. So whether it’s a random fan with 2 followers or a huge corporation, keep the edits coming!