Birds Aren’t Real : inside the new documentary taking on conspiracy culture

Gennie, the newly launched generative AI content studio based in Los Angeles, has partnered with UK non-scripted producer Phoenix Television to co-produce Birds Aren’t Real, an eight-part documentary series examining the rise and persistence of modern conspiracy theories. The project was officially announced at Realscreen Summit 2026 in Miami.

Named after the viral Birds Aren’t Real phenomenon—which began as satire in 2017 before being embraced by some as fact—the series uses the movement as a gateway to explore how misinformation can evolve, spread, and gain credibility. Each episode focuses on a different global conspiracy theory, including the moon landing denial, the flat Earth movement, the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, suppressed medical breakthroughs, and claims of hidden technologies.

Through a mix of expert interviews, archival material, and AI-assisted visual storytelling, the series investigates the origins of these beliefs, the evidence cited by supporters, and the historical and scientific records that challenge them. Gennie’s proprietary AI workflows are used to clarify timelines, illustrate abstract or disputed ideas, and contextualize key historical moments, all under the direction of experienced filmmakers.

“This project explores the line between fact and fiction in a way that feels urgent and timely,” said Max Einhorn, CEO and co-founder of Gennie. Phoenix Television’s Miles Jarvis added that the series aims to responsibly examine how conspiracy theories take hold in an increasingly connected world.

Birds Aren’t Real is currently seeking commissioning broadcasters and streamers, with global sales handled by BossaNova Media.