need ideas!?!PLZ!! is a collage of little seen online videos that draws attention to the masses of neglected videos and images that social media ecologies generate, and to how contemporary networked society has fundamentally transformed social relations and creativity.
Content is simply something to do; something modest offered up freely in exchange for a sense of accomplishment or relief. As one user puts it, “I don’t know what to do, so give me ideas. I’m trying to get more stuff done.” Another whines, “I really need new vids, I have no time, ok?” These pleas are funny, and sad, and strange. They register a palpable confusion of work and play, social anxiety expressed as a preoccupation with stats and productivity.