In an effort to promote the upcoming season of HBO’s popular hit series Entourage, HBO designed a virtual interview with the show’s notriously obnoxioius movie agent character Ari Gold. Visitors to the site can interview with Ari and respond to his questions and rants. In addition, one can “refer a friend” for the job via email. Be sure to check it out:

www.interviewwithari.com

This is the type of interactive advertising that marketers should strive for because it’s fun, interactive, and viral. While it may appeal mostly to already loyal viewers of the show, it will undoubtedly create buzz through email and word-of-mouth.

According to AdAge, HBO will also place mock advertisements in Variety for the fictional movie Aquaman, promote Ari’s made-up talent agency, and create a myspace page. As a fan of the show, I am personally excited to check these out. It’s also getting me pscyhed for the upcoming season and I have already sent the interview with Ari to several friends. Let’s hope HBO keeps up the good work.

[tags] HBO, Entourage, myspace, interview with ari, marketing.fm, variety, AdAge, advertising [/tags]