Unveiling the Rise of Verticals in Hollywood: A New Frontier for SAG-AFTRA
The Future of Entertainment is Here, and SAG-AFTRA is Leading the Charge!
In a bold move, SAG-AFTRA has embraced the emerging world of verticals, recognizing the potential and impact of this innovative format. But here's where it gets intriguing: these serialized stories, filmed vertically, are not just a passing trend but a thriving new business model.
The union's president, Sean Astin, described verticals as an "exciting new space," acknowledging the format's rapid evolution and its appeal to performers. Astin emphasized the union's support for its members as they navigate this dynamic landscape, ensuring they can pursue their craft with the protection and recognition they deserve.
Unraveling the Verticals Phenomenon
Vertical stories, often lasting one to three minutes, are typically found on platforms like DramaBox and ReelShort, offering a unique twist on romance narratives. Think titles like "Fake Dating My Rich Nemesis" or "Claimed By My Ex’s Alpha Brother" - a far cry from traditional Hollywood fare.
The budgets for these microdramas are relatively small, usually under $300,000, reflecting the efficient and focused nature of these productions. As Hollywood workers seek new opportunities, unions like SAG-AFTRA and IATSE are stepping in to ensure fair practices and actor protections.
A Win-Win for Actors and Producers
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA's national executive director, highlighted the new agreement's benefits. It accommodates the unique demands of vertical productions, respecting their creative vision while upholding the union's core principles. This balance ensures actors receive the support and recognition they need in a rapidly changing industry.
Hollywood's Traditional Players Join the Game
The traditional Hollywood studios are not sitting idle. Fox Entertainment has invested in Holywater, a verticals company that integrates AI into its production process. Meanwhile, veteran media executive Lloyd Braun has entered the scene with MicroCo, signaling a growing interest in this format.
The Impact on Emerging Talent
For aspiring actors, verticals offer a unique opportunity to gain on-camera experience in a competitive market. This format provides a platform for talent to showcase their skills and build their portfolios, a crucial aspect of their professional development.
The Future is Vertical
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, SAG-AFTRA's proactive stance on verticals is a testament to its commitment to its members and the industry's future. With traditional Hollywood making inroads into this format, the question arises: How will this impact the industry's creative landscape? And what does this mean for the future of storytelling?
Let's discuss! What are your thoughts on the rise of verticals and their potential impact on the entertainment industry?
