Copyright Variety
Across Asia, a new storytelling phenomenon has reshaped the way audiences watch and connect. The short-form drama model, which is comprised of ultra-short, serialized dramas designed for vertical viewing, has taken off at remarkable speed. Told in one to two-minute episodes and often spanning 40 to 80 parts, these microdramas have proven that emotionally satisfying stories can unfold in miniature. In 2025, revenues in China are expected to surpass the country’s local theatrical box office, reaching $9.4 billion, according to a new report by Media Partners Asia, showing that audiences are eager to binge stories in quick, addictive bursts. Now, Crisp is entering this dynamic landscape, but it’s not just another short-video platform. Inspired by Asia’s microdrama revolution, Crisp is reimagining what short-form storytelling can become on a global scale. Rather than focusing solely on serialized dramas, Crisp is a destination for the next generation of short-form content — from animation and bite-sized documentaries to experimental, creator-driven micro-series designed for mobile viewing. At its core lies a simple question: What if micro-storytelling could extend beyond traditional genres, like melodrama and romance, into new genres, real-world stories and creative experimentation? Where Creativity Meets Curation Crisp’s approach blends artistic ambition with editorial curation. The platform, best described as part creative incubator and part distribution hub, is designed for the mobile attention economy without sacrificing substance or style. Its interface emphasizes discoverability and visual storytelling, combining algorithmic guidance with editorial framing. The result is a feed that feels both personal and purposeful — a space where audiences can explore, not just scroll. The Crisp app launched this month with a library of 20 titles, a mix of Crisp Originals, TopReels and TaleOn Originals, that also includes a selection of the most popular short drama series. For 2026, 85 Crisp Originals are planned. A Turning Point for the Medium Crisp launched at a moment of tension and opportunity. Attention spans are shrinking, but expectations are rising. Viewers crave impact and emotion, even in the span of two minutes. At the heart of its vision is a single belief: The short-form revolution has only just begun. “We see numerous opportunities in the microdrama industry, which has untapped potential in terms of genre diversifications and brand partnerships,” says Dr. Adrian Cheng, chairman of the Crisp Momentum Inc. Board. “By leveraging our experience, data-driven approach and a wide network, we aim to build a very successful, one-of-a-kind vertical streaming app and to become the go-to platform for vertical franchises and premium short-form content within the next couple of years.” The Future Is Vertical To celebrate its launch, Crisp will host its first global event, “The Future Is Vertical: The Global Rise of Short-Form Media,” on Nov. 17 in Seoul. The event, hosted by Dr. Cheng, will explore the rise of the short-form industry, its expanding ecosystem and what’s next for the format. Highlights will include interviews with CEOs, from gaming and web-novel companies who entered the short drama space, discussing monetization and audience engagement as well as a presentation from Media Partners Asia on their latest “The Micro-Drama Economy: Global & Asian Outlook” report. There will be keynote speeches from Google, TikTok and HuntMobi, a BI and AI marketing-tech firm powering more than 90% of today’s pan-entertainment products. Panel discussions with international creators and executives on the globalization of short drama: Can the storytelling formulas developed in Asia translate worldwide? How will the genre evolve as it crosses borders? What’s next in the short-form space? Another highlight will be a session on animation featuring Shibuya Film, the award-winning team behind “White Rabbit,” of which the vertical adaptation launched on the Crisp app. “As the creators of ‘White Rabbit,’ we’re fascinated by how this format lets us reach audiences in completely new ways,” says Maciej Kuciara.
