Microdrama Series Reach 75 Million Views in First Week

A production company released a mobile-first thriller series in May that drew nearly 75 million views during its first week. The project was developed after two years of research into how audiences watch entertainment on phones.

Episodes run one to three minutes and are filmed vertically for smartphone viewing. The first episodes are free, after which viewers pay to unlock additional content. Global revenues for the format are projected to reach $14 billion by the end of 2026, according to technology research firm Omdia.

Peacock has opened a dedicated microdrama hub, while Fox Entertainment invested in a producer and committed to hundreds of vertical titles.

TelevisaUnivision is producing short-form dramas for its ViX service. Kevin Hart’s HartBeat expanded into vertical comedy, and Kim Kardashian backed a mobile-first platform through an investment in ReelShort. Taye Diggs has appeared in vertical series, and filmmaker Deon Taylor is developing a sports-focused project.

At the MIP London market, executives said some platforms are spending up to 90 percent of budgets on marketing. A head of digital at the production company said the format removes traditional gatekeepers because creators can test ideas and retain ownership without waiting years for studio approval.

The American Black Film Festival launched its first microdrama showcase this year, selecting eight finalists from hundreds of submissions.