Gen Z aren't outraged by the Louvre heist... they're inspired
'The world is still full of whimsy.'
A recent viral video by social media personality Daniel Rhodes has sparked debate and amusement online with its unconventional take on the infamous Louvre heist. In the video, Rhodes describes the 1911 theft of the Mona Lisa as "one of the most inspiring things to happen within my lifetime," drawing a stark contrast between the historical event and the modern era of artificial intelligence. Rhodes, known for his engaging and often humorous content, expressed a peculiar admiration for the heist, calling it a "good old-fashioned heist" executed with "bare hands." He elaborated, "They didn't use any fancy technology or anything. No, they didn't need it. They're good men. They used their bare hands, just like God intended, okay?" This perspective has resonated with some viewers who appreciate the sentiment of human ingenuity in an increasingly automated world, while others find the glorification of a crime problematic. Furthermore, Rhodes interpreted the heist as a motivational message for personal ambition. "If anything, I am getting a bit of messaging from this of like, chase your dream, do what fulfills you. Don't take no for an answer. Think outside of the box. Do things that others aren't doing. Be you," he stated. The video, uploaded on October 21, 2025, has garnered over 1.2 million views, indicating a significant public interest in Rhodes' unique viewpoint. While not endorsing criminal acts, the video has undeniably opened a dialogue on historical events, technological advancement, and personal motivation.
'The world is still full of whimsy.'
