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The internet has a unique way of noticing patterns that most people overlook. One example is the popular meme captioned: “They’re multiplying.” It usually appears when fans discover that multiple animated characters look or act surprisingly similar. These memes are lighthearted, funny, and often spark conversations about creativity in animation and pop culture.
In this article, we will explore why these memes are so popular, what makes them relatable, and why audiences love pointing out similarities between cartoon characters.
The Joke Behind “They’re Multiplying”
At its core, the meme is simple: when characters from different movies or shows share almost identical features, fans joke as if they are “multiplying.” It’s a playful exaggeration that suggests studios are reusing the same design, personality, or role over and over.
For example, curly-haired adventurous kids, goofy sidekicks, or inventors with messy hair often show up across different films. Once you notice the pattern, you can’t unsee it—and that’s exactly why it’s so funny.
Why Do Characters Look So Similar?
- Artistic Style
Animation studios often follow a certain design style. Disney, Pixar, and DreamWorks all have signature looks. This makes some characters appear related, even if they’re from different movies. - Familiar Archetypes
Storytelling uses recurring archetypes: the brave hero, the clumsy inventor, the curious child. Since these archetypes repeat, their designs also tend to look similar. - Audience Connection
When a design works—like big expressive eyes or messy curls—studios reuse it because it resonates with audiences. Familiarity builds instant emotional connection. - Cultural Influence
Sometimes characters reflect popular fashion or cultural symbols of the time, which makes them resemble each other.
The Psychology of Recognition
Humans are wired to recognize patterns. When we see characters that look alike, our brain immediately makes connections. The humor comes from exaggerating this recognition—turning it into a joke that they’re “multiplying” like copies of each other.
This taps into what psychologists call the “frequency illusion”—once you notice something, you start seeing it everywhere. Memes amplify that feeling in a funny, shared way.
Why Memes Like This Go Viral
- Relatability – Everyone loves pointing out similarities.
- Simplicity – The meme works with just one short phrase.
- Visual Humor – Pictures do most of the work, the text is just the punchline.
- Community Engagement – Fans enjoy tagging friends and debating which characters look most alike.
Other Examples of “They’re Multiplying” Memes
- Animated moms who all seem to have the same hairstyle.
- Sidekick animals that look almost identical across films.
- Nerdy inventors with goggles, messy hair, and oversized smiles.
- Kids in animated series who always wear similar clothes and have the same personality traits.
These patterns create endless opportunities for fans to recycle the joke.
What This Says About Internet Culture
The popularity of memes like this reveals something important: audiences are not passive anymore. Viewers are not just watching movies—they are analyzing, comparing, and sharing their observations online.
Instead of complaining about repetition, the internet turns it into comedy. This playful criticism encourages studios to push for originality while giving fans endless entertainment.
How to Create Your Own “They’re Multiplying” Meme
- Find two or more characters that look or act very similar.
- Place them side by side in a collage.
- Add the caption “They’re multiplying.”
- Share it on social media and watch the comments roll in.
This format is so flexible that fans use it not only for animation but also for celebrities, everyday people, or even pets that look alike.
Conclusion
“They’re multiplying” memes are a great example of how internet humor works. By pointing out the similarities in animated characters, fans create something that is both funny and insightful. It reminds us that while stories and designs may repeat, our creativity in making jokes never runs out.
Next time you notice two characters with the same wild hair, cheeky smile, or quirky personality, don’t be surprised if your brain shouts: “They’re multiplying!” Because chances are, the internet already has—and turned it into a viral meme.
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