The 'Speed not laughing' meme, originating from a Marvel's Spider-Man video game scene, has become a popular internet phenomenon, sparking numerous spin-offs and parodies. The meme centers around Miles Morales' animated facial expression, which looks like he's unable to laugh, but is actually saying 'speed', a power-up in the game. This article delves into the origins, impact, and variants of the 'Speed not laughing' meme.
The meme's popularity can be attributed to its relatable and humorous interpretation of the character's expression, making it a universal joke that transcends language barriers in the online community.
Origins of the 'Speed not laughing' Meme
The 'Speed not laughing' meme originated from a promotional video for Marvel's Spider-Man on PlayStation 4, released in 2018. In the video, Miles Morales, the game's protagonist, is shown using his speed power-up, with his face distorted in a way that resembles laughter. However, he's actually supposed to be saying 'speed'.
The misinterpretation of his expression as 'not laughing' sparked a series of memes on the internet, with people attributing various punchlines to his face.
Popular Punchlines and Variations
One of the most popular punchlines is "I'm not laughing at your jokes, I'm just fast," emphasizing Miles' speed power. Another variation is "I'm not laughing, I'm just asking for a raise," a humorous take on the speed-power-as-competence interpretation. Some variations also incorporate other Marvel characters, such as Iron Man, with captions like "I'm not laughing, I'm just calculating."
Some parodies of the meme also replace Miles' face with other characters or objects, maintaining the same comedic effect while changing the punchline. For instance, a popular variant uses a squirrel's face, with the caption "I'm not laughing, I'm just chubby."
Impact on Popular Culture
The 'Speed not laughing' meme has transcended the gaming community, becoming a mainstream internet joke. It has been used in various contexts, from light-hearted banter to serious discussions, demonstrating its universality and appeal. Some prominent figures, like game developers and influencers, have even acknowledged and contributed to the meme's evolution.
Its impact can also be seen in the numerous merchandise items featuring the meme, from t-shirts to phone cases, catering to both gaming enthusiasts and casual internet users.
The Legacy and Future of the 'Speed not laughing' Meme
The 'Speed not laughing' meme has undeniably become a part of internet folklore, standing out among a sea of memes. Its legacy lies in its ability to unite people across platforms, cultures, and interests,:m for a moment, everyone understands that distorted face as 'not laughing'.
As for the future, the meme's longevity depends on its adaptability. As new trends and contexts emerge, the 'Speed not laughing' meme could continue to evolve, remaining relevant and humorous for years to come. After all, the internet has always been fonder of timeless jokes than fleeting fads.
So, keep an eye out for the next iteration of the 'Speed not laughing' meme. You never know when Miles Morales might find a new way to 'not laugh' at us all.