In this interview, I speak with Jeshua Manu, Co-founder and Producer of VertiPlay, New Zealand’s first vertical drama production company. We discuss how New Zealand is building its place in the global short drama industry, the opportunities for local creators, and where the next wave of vertical storytelling is heading.
Topics include: • Why New Zealand is becoming an emerging destination for vertical drama production
• Casting actors for short dramas and adapting traditional acting styles
• What kinds of stories resonate with audiences in New Zealand and Australia
• Building original IP for the global short drama market
• Government support, production incentives, and industry development
• The unique advantages women bring to the short drama industry
• AI as a creative tool in short drama production • Why human storytelling still matters in the age of AI
• The future of vertical storytelling and the global short drama ecosystem
If you’re a producer, writer, investor, platform, or creator interested in the international development of short dramas, this conversation offers valuable insights from one of the pioneers building the industry in New Zealand.
#VerticalDrama #ShortDrama #MicroDrama #NewZealand #FilmProduction #AI #Storytelling #Entertainment #FilmIndustry #duanju
🌍 Short Drama Alliance — Learning Resources & Industry Insights
📘 Essential Industry Book
Short Drama Writing 101: Write What Platforms Want
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FX45ZXK7
📙 Self-Paced Online Course
Short Drama Writing 101: A Practical Course with Real Case Studies
https://maggie-han.mykajabi.com/short-drama-bootcamp-1?preview_theme_id=2166150379
🎬 4-Week Online Bootcamp (with Real Feedback)
Short Drama Bootcamp
https://maggie-han.mykajabi.com/short-drama-bootcamp
🌏 Industry & China Market Insights
Future Playbook: China’s Short Drama Ecosystem and Insights for Global Business
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FX5QBY3Y
