SAG-AFTRA Introduces New “Verticals Agreement” to Support Microdrama Format in Hollywood

SAG-AFTRA Embraces the Rise of Vertical Microdramas with New Agreement

In a significant move reflecting the evolving landscape of entertainment, SAG-AFTRA has announced plans to introduce a specialized contract for the burgeoning vertical microdrama format. This “Verticals Agreement,” set to be unveiled by the end of the month, aims to support projects with budgets under $300,000, catering to the unique demands of this rapidly growing sector.

SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin hailed verticals as an “exciting new space” in a statement released on Monday. “This fast-evolving format is catching on, and we are here to support our performers as they pursue their craft and engage with this new business model,” he said. “By offering a contract tailored to the unique needs of these projects, our union is meeting the moment. As the business of verticals experiences substantial growth, so too will our relationship with the producers.”

Filmed in portrait mode, verticals are serialized stories typically ranging from one to three minutes in length. Platforms like DramaBox and ReelShort have gained popularity, primarily featuring melodramatic romance narratives with titles such as Fake Dating My Rich Nemesis and Claimed By My Ex’s Alpha Brother. These platforms have become a haven for underemployed Hollywood talent seeking opportunities in a challenging job market.

As traditional avenues for actors and crew members have dwindled, the rise of microdramas has not gone unnoticed by industry unions. The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) is exploring potential avenues within this format, while the Writers Guild of America West has indicated that these projects could be covered under its existing contracts.

“This agreement works for the realities of these productions — their pace, their budgets, and their creative ambitions, while upholding the union’s core standards of actor protections,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s national executive director.

The announcement comes at a time when traditional Hollywood is also eyeing the verticals market. Just last week, Fox Entertainment revealed it had acquired an equity stake in Holywater, a verticals company that integrates AI into its production process. Veteran media executive Lloyd Braun, known for his work with ABC and WME, has also entered the space with his new venture, MicroCo.

As the entertainment industry continues to adapt to new formats and technologies, SAG-AFTRA’s proactive approach to verticals signals a commitment to supporting performers in this innovative realm. With the introduction of the Verticals Agreement, the union is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of microdrama production in Hollywood.