The Rise of Vertical Series: Why Hollywood Is Paying Attention
The $8 billion microdrama industry is reshaping how we consume content. Here's what you need to know about this explosive format.
Creative Development Producer & Writer
Vertical Series. Microdrama.
The Future of Storytelling.
I write ambitious outsiders with nothing to lose, in worlds we haven't seen. From pitch to 60-episode series — currently in development with ReelShort.
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Allison Wilson-Forbes
Creator
The Takeover
She thought she lost everything... until she discovered who really pulled the strings.
#verticalseries#drama#revenge
The New Format
What is Microdrama?
Vertical series dramas are scripted shows designed for smartphone viewing. Known as “duanju” in China, they blend traditional storytelling with mobile-first, fast-paced content — like scrolling through TikTok, but with professional production and addictive narratives.
$0B+
Global Market Size
0%
Year-over-Year Growth
0M+
ReelShort Users
0
Episodes Per Series
Vertical Format
Shot in 9:16 portrait mode, optimized for how people actually hold their phones.
Bite-Sized Episodes
60-90 second episodes with rapid twists and cliffhangers that keep viewers swiping.
Massive Engagement
Pay-per-episode model generates $20-40 per viewer. Audiences are hooked.
Full Series Arc
Complete 50-60 episode narratives with beginning, middle, and satisfying end.
“These undeniably addictive shorts have become a veritable lifeline for actors, writers, producers and directors.”
— Deadline
About
Allison Wilson-Forbes
I'm a Canadian stage and screen actress, writer, playwright, and producer based in Toronto. Best known for playing Nurse Alice on the television series “Saving Hope,” I've also appeared in critically acclaimed shows including The Expanse, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and Self Made.
A graduate of UCLA's TV Writing Program and Netflix-Banff Fellow, I bring both creative vision and industry expertise to every project. I don't just write stories — I understand what makes them connect with audiences.
My focus now? The vertical series revolution. I'm pioneering the next wave of storytelling — crafting addictive, binge-worthy content for the mobile-first generation.
UCLA TV Writing Program
Graduate of the prestigious television writing program
Netflix-Banff Fellow
Selected for the competitive fellowship program
Character's Talent Agency
Toronto-based representation
Toronto, Canada
Based in Canada's entertainment hub
Services
How I Can Help
From concept to complete series, I bring expertise across the entire vertical content development pipeline.
Creative Development Producer
Fostering growth of business relationships between platforms and vertical producers. Deep understanding of what trends translate with content viewers.
Platform RelationshipsIP DevelopmentGenre Expertise
Series Writer
Full story execution from pitch stage to complete draft of a full series — approximately 50-60 episodes. Pitches always service platform needs and audience tastes.
Full Series DevelopmentPitch to Draft50-60 Episodes
Story Consultant
Netflix-Banff Fellow and sought-after story consultant. I don't tell you what to do — I help you get to where you want to go with your narrative.
IP AdaptationScript DevelopmentFresh Original IP
Audience Analytics
Expertise in audience reception and data analytics using a unique proprietary methodology developed over years of study.
Proprietary MethodologyAudience InsightsTrend Analysis
Portfolio
Selected Work
From vertical series development to acclaimed television appearances.
In DevelopmentVertical Series
In Development with ReelShort
Currently developing original vertical series content for the leading microdrama platform.
In DevelopmentDrama
Modern Love
Multi-language drama series in development. Budget: $5M - $10M.
In DevelopmentComedy
Double or Nothing
Original comedy series in development. Budget: $2.5M - $5M.
Testimonials
What People Say
“Allison brings a unique perspective to storytelling — she understands both the creative and the business side of content development.”
Industry Colleague
Producer
“Her ability to develop compelling narratives for the vertical format is unmatched. She truly understands what makes audiences swipe to the next episode.”
Platform Partner
Content Executive
“Working with Allison as a story consultant transformed our project. She doesn't just give notes — she helps you find your story.”
Fellow Writer
Screenwriter
* Testimonials are representative of feedback received. Names withheld for privacy.
Insights
View all articlesLatest Thoughts
Industry insights, writing craft, and market analysis from the world of vertical series.
Writing for the Swipe: Crafting 60-Second Episodes That Hook
The art of the cliffhanger has evolved. Learn how to structure addictive vertical content that keeps viewers coming back.
Inside the ReelShort Phenomenon: Data Behind the Addiction
With 50M+ users and $400M in revenue, ReelShort is leading the vertical revolution. A deep dive into what makes it work.
Contact
Let's Create Something Together
Whether you're a platform looking for vertical content, a producer seeking a development partner, or an IP holder exploring the microdrama space — I'd love to hear from you.
For representation inquiries: Contact Character's Talent Agency, Toronto.