The Rise of China's Micro Dramas: Revolutionizing Entertainment

Micro dramas, short video content often seen on mobile apps, are transforming viewing habits in China. These concise, minute-long episodes captivate audiences with frequent plot twists and have become a $5 billion industry. The trend is expanding internationally with significant uptake in the United States.

Zhu Jian is disrupting China's flourishing movie industry from a film set resembling a medieval Chinese ruler's castle. As the 69-year-old actor portrays a wealthy patriarch in 'Grandma's Moon,' a micro drama rich in plot twists, viewers are captivated via their cellphones in minute-long episodes.

This shift from traditional cinema to mobile short-format videos, known as micro dramas, has boosted China's film sector. With a $5 billion valuation, this burgeoning industry primarily consists of seniors and middle-aged workers opting for the convenience of mobile viewing. Top apps like Kuaishou have recorded over 300 million views on several titles, proving the format's popularity.

Micro dramas are not only expanding in China but also gaining traction in the United States. Chinese-backed apps like ReelShort have surpassed major platforms like Netflix in downloads. These short, dramatic clips, characterized by plot reversals and sensational episodes, cater to audiences worldwide, representing a significant shift in global entertainment consumption.

(With inputs from agencies.)