Short video platforms like TikTok have changed the streaming landscape, pushing traditional streaming services like Disney+, Peacock and Netflix to explore short-form video features. This shift raises the question of how indie filmmakers can take advantage of this vertical video trend.
Enter Vurta mobile-first vertical streaming platform designed specifically for independent filmmakers to upload their mini-series or feature films to a mobile-first vertical format.
The platform announced its launch on Tuesday, with more than 100 episodes of original mini-series, feature films and TV shows spanning various genres currently on the platform. There are even movies with Kevin Hart and Vivica A. Fox. The company says a new original title is released on the platform every week.
As audiences increasingly turn to mobile-friendly content, adapting traditional storytelling methods to fit vertical formats seems like a natural progression. Vurt sees its platform as a solution that aligns with that future.
The success of “micro-drama” platforms like ReelShort and DramaBox has proven that there is a sizable market willing for engaging content. This segment has exploded from a niche to a multi-billion dollar industry.
As reported by Appfigures, ReelShort was projected to achieve approximately $1.2 billion in gross consumer spending in 2025, while DramaBox generated $276 million in consumer spending last year. Even TikTok launched its own micro-drama app in January. Vurt is also in direct competition with emerging apps like Watch Club, which features micro-drama stories created by SAG-AFTRA and WGA (Writers Guild of America) actors and writers.
What really sets Vurt apart is its approach to content distribution. Unlike traditional streaming services that often involve lengthy distribution processes through aggregators or large companies, Vurt allows creators to submit their content directly. Once approved, filmmakers can upload their projects, making them available to the public within 48 to 72 hours.
Techcrunch event
San Francisco, California
|
13-15 October 2026
For creators who want to monetize their work, Vurt works with an AVOD (advertisement-based video on demand) model, which allows them to generate revenue through ad placements on their titles. In addition, Vurt offers a non-exclusive licensing agreement with a 50/50 revenue split, giving filmmakers a fair chance to profit from their creations.
The brainchild behind Vurt, Ted Lucas, is the founder of Slip-N-Slide Records, which has sold millions of records for artists such as Trick Daddy, Trina, Rick Ross and Plies. The idea for Vurt came from Lucas’ experiences while distributing the documentary “Miami Kingpins”. He recognized the distribution challenges faced by many filmmakers and wanted to find a solution.
“Not every content creator and every filmmaker has the resources and access to overcome these barriers. I realized it’s a problem I could potentially solve,” Lucas told TechCrunch.
Vurt’s founding team brings years of industry experience: Eric Tomosunas, who founded Swirl Films; director and producer Mark A. Samuels; and angel investor Hilmon Sorey. In addition, former BET and REVOLT executive Tarik Brooks serves as an advisor.
With young viewers primarily consuming content on their mobile devices, it will be interesting to see how the vertical format resonates with both independent creators and major streaming services. Could we one day see full-length vertical shows on Netflix or original films on TikTok? It’s too early to predict the future, but the move toward vertical storytelling is undeniable.
“The way people consume content has already changed, and we’re building something that fits that future,” Lucas said.
Vurt is now available for free at App Store and Google Play. There is also one web version which mirrors streaming services but remains dedicated exclusively to vertical content.
