Chinese-Backed Vertical Content Proves Viable in US Market

The industry of vertical short shows, which are typically 50 to 100 episodes lasting about a minute each and are shot in a 9-by-16 format, has seen exponential growth since the pandemic. This content industry boomed particularly in China, where it is expected to gross $16.5 billion by the end of the year. Apps like ReelShort serve a large audience in the United States, despite being backed by Chinese companies. In 2023, the American market became a crucial source of work for actors and crew members when traditional jobs disappeared due to the writer's strike.

The success of these apps demonstrates the viability of a Chinese-backed vertical content strategy in the competitive US market. This model provided a necessary economic lifeline for production crews and performers during industry instability.