Imagine scrolling through your phone and discovering an entire drama series in seconds. Welcome to the era of vertical short dramas in the Chinese mainland, a multi-billion dollar phenomenon booming in 2025. In the latest episode of BizFocus, our reporter Ankit Prasad went straight to Hengdian, the world’s largest filming complex, to explore how these bite-sized stories are made—and why they’re dominating global streaming.
At Hengdian, crews race against the clock. From script to final cut in under a week—sometimes just five days! This hyper-efficient workflow includes:
- Dynamic shooting techniques using vertical frames optimized for mobile screens 📱
- Rapid post-production edits and real-time feedback loops 🎬
- A team of writers, directors, and actors working in tandem to hit daily release targets
Why do audiences love them? These short dramas, typically 5 to 10 minutes per episode, fit perfectly into busy schedules. Viewers binge new installments over their morning commute or during study breaks. The quick pace and tight arcs create an addictive experience—teens and young professionals can’t get enough! 🤩
Looking ahead, insiders predict vertical short dramas will keep growing in 2026 and beyond. With low production costs and high engagement, streaming platforms across Asia and beyond are betting big. For travelers and culture enthusiasts, Hengdian is a must-visit hub, where you can witness the magic behind your next favorite show. 🎥✈️
As BizFocus Ep 136 shows, the Chinese mainland’s short drama factory is redefining how we consume stories—one quick scroll at a time.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
