Vurt: The Vertical Video Platform for Indie Filmmakers
▼ Summary
– Short video platforms have prompted traditional streaming services to explore short-form content, creating an opportunity for indie filmmakers to capitalize on the vertical video trend.
– Vurt is a new mobile-first vertical streaming platform specifically designed for independent filmmakers to upload their micro-series or feature films in a vertical format.
– The platform distinguishes itself by allowing creators to submit content directly for a quick approval and upload process, and it operates on an AVOD model with a 50/50 revenue split.
– The success of platforms like ReelShort and DramaBox, which generate hundreds of millions in revenue, demonstrates a sizable market for bite-sized, vertical content.
– Vurt’s founder, Ted Lucas, was inspired to create the platform after recognizing the distribution challenges filmmakers face, aiming to provide a more accessible solution.
The rise of short-form vertical video has fundamentally altered how audiences consume entertainment, creating a significant opportunity for independent creators. While major streaming services are experimenting with the format, a new platform called Vurt has launched specifically to serve indie filmmakers. This mobile-first vertical streaming service allows creators to upload their micro-series or full-length films directly in a vertical format, aiming to simplify distribution and tap into the growing demand for mobile-optimized content.
Vurt officially launched with a library of over 100 episodes of original micro-series, films, and shows across various genres. The platform even features titles with well-known actors like Kevin Hart and Vivica A. Fox, and the company commits to releasing a new original title every week. This strategy positions Vurt to capitalize on the proven market for bite-sized, engaging stories, a segment that has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry thanks to platforms like ReelShort and DramaBox.
What sets Vurt apart is its streamlined, direct submission process for creators. Unlike traditional distribution channels that can involve lengthy negotiations with aggregators or studios, Vurt allows filmmakers to submit their work directly. After approval, projects can be uploaded and made available to viewers in as little as 48 to 72 hours. This dramatically reduces the barrier to entry for independent creators seeking an audience.
For monetization, Vurt uses an advertising-based video on demand (AVOD) model. Creators can earn revenue through ad placements on their content. The platform offers a non-exclusive licensing agreement with a 50/50 revenue split, giving filmmakers a straightforward and equitable way to profit from their work without sacrificing ownership or the ability to distribute elsewhere.
The platform was founded by Ted Lucas, known for founding Slip-N-Slide Records. Lucas conceived the idea after facing distribution challenges with his own documentary, “Miami Kingpins.” He recognized that many creators lack the resources to navigate complex distribution hurdles and built Vurt as a solution. The founding team includes seasoned industry figures like Eric Tomosunas of Swirl Films, director Mark A. Samuels, and angel investor Hilmon Sorey, with former BET executive Tarik Brooks serving in an advisory role.
As viewer habits continue to shift toward mobile-first consumption, Vurt represents a dedicated space for vertical storytelling. The platform is available as a free app on the App Store and Google Play, with a web version that maintains a focus exclusively on vertical content. Whether major streamers will fully embrace long-form vertical content remains to be seen, but the trend toward this format is clearly accelerating.
(Source: TechCrunch)
