This might be the best ad I've ever seen (20.4M Views)

Ever wonder how a branded ad gets 20.4M views and 1.3M likes on Instagram?

Yeah, you read that right - an AD hit those numbers.

Today we're breaking down a video from @grantbeans that's rewriting the rules of what sponsored content can do.

Let's see exactly how they pulled it off 👇

grantbeans

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First things first - let's talk about what makes this video special. 

It's not the production value. 

It's not fancy transitions or VFX. 

It's something way more powerful: unpredictability.

This video uses what I call "stacked unpredictability." 

Instead of one surprise moment, they hit you with multiple shock tactics, one after another.

By the time your brain has registered what just happened, something new comes at you. 

It's like a series of quick-fire dopamine hits that keep you glued to the screen.

Their storytelling is next level. 

There's literally not a millisecond where you could get bored and swipe away. 

The story is constantly moving forward.

They've nailed one of social media's golden rules: hit the ground running. 

No slow builds. 

No gentle introductions. 

Just action, action, action from the start.

The video is also designed to loop perfectly. 

This is genius for two reasons:

1. It gets people watching more than once

2. Even if they only rewatch part of it, that second view boosts average retention

Bonus

Here's something clever - they've used the "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" soundtrack. 

That familiar music triggers positive associations in your mind, making you more receptive to what's coming next.

Remember what we've talked about before - viewer retention is one of the top metrics algorithms look for when deciding to push content wider.

Why This Matters 

@grantbeans has created a sponsored post that performs better than most organic content. 

That's like beating the game on hard mode.

Want to replicate this formula?

Here are the 4 key points to keep in mind for your next piece of content:

1. Stack your unpredictable moments

2. Use familiar audio strategically

3. Keep the pacing tight

4. Create perfect loops when possible

Now, before you go off to create your next viral hit, can I ask you for a favour? It'll take you 20 seconds, tops.

Think of that mate of yours. You know the one - always posting, grinding hard, but maybe not seeing the results they deserve.

Send them this link: Viral Academy Newsletter

Tell them, "You need to get on this. You're getting a mini-masterclass in content creation - in your pocket (all for free)"

Why am I asking this? Simple. If you're finding these newsletters valuable (and I hope you are), why not  do something nice for a friend? Help them level up their content game, absolutely free.

I want to help as many people as possible with these newsletters so I’ll keep making them for you and I would really appreciate it if you shared with even just one friend.

Until next time, 

Jeremy

P.S. How long are your viewers actually watching?

Don't forget to use the tips from my past 27 newsletters to keep improving. (Missed an issue? Catch up here).

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