Smino’s ‘Maybe In Nirvana’ Short Film Turns Psychedelia Into a Spiritual Quest

Smino has never been one to follow the rules. The St. Louis rapper’s creative vision is as unpredictable as his flow, and his latest release—a short film titled Maybe In Nirvana—is proof that his artistry extends far beyond music. The eight-minute visual, which dropped on February 10, offers fans a surreal, mind-bending ride through consciousness, blending existential questions with vibrant cinematography.

Co-directed by Smino and City James, the short film serves as a companion piece to his December 2024 album of the same name. It follows a group of friends, led by tourmate Samara Cyn, as they embark on a metaphysical journey sparked by a cosmic eye drop. The central question driving the narrative? “Do you know why you’re here?”—a concept that feels deeply personal to Smino’s artistry.

Set against a soundtrack of Maybe In Nirvana tracks, the film doesn’t just showcase Smino’s music—it amplifies its themes of self-discovery, escapism, and the blurred lines between dreams and reality. From hypnotic neon visuals to moments of eerie stillness, the film mirrors the psychedelic soul of his sound. It’s as if André 3000’s Idlewild met Enter The Void—with Smino at the helm, leading viewers through a world where consciousness is fluid and the truth is elusive.

Rather than dropping the film on traditional platforms, Smino takes a grassroots approach. Fans must sign up on a dedicated webpage to access the full project, with a “name your price” option for donations. A $5 contribution unlocks exclusive behind-the-scenes content, reinforcing the idea that Maybe In Nirvana is more than a film—it’s an experience.

With his Kountry Kousins tour on the horizon, Smino is proving yet again that he’s not just a rapper; he’s a curator of worlds. Maybe In Nirvana isn’t just a short film—it’s an invitation to step into Smino’s mind.