New HBO documentary Fake Famous follows writer-director Nick Bilton as he attempts to build up three influencers
It stars aspiring actress Dominique Druckman, art student Wiley Heiner, and designer Chris Bailey
To build up their followings, Bilton buys them fake followers, bots that behave like real humans can be bought in batches
Higher follower counts attract real followers, and hopefully paid brand sponsorships, free trips, and gifts
He also stages photoshoots in fake locations masquerading as luxe ones, like a private jet studio rented for $50/hour and a warehouse dressed up as a VIP gym