Vurt launches mobile-first vertical streaming platform for indie filmmakers

Short-form video apps such as TikTok have significantly reshaped the streaming space, encouraging established platforms like Disney+, Peacock, and Netflix to experiment with short-form formats. This evolving trend highlights how independent filmmakers can leverage vertical video storytelling.

Vurt steps into this space as a mobile-first vertical streaming service built specifically for independent creators, allowing them to upload micro-series or full-length films designed in a vertical format. The company officially announced its launch on Tuesday, revealing that the platform already hosts more than 100 episodes of original micro-series, feature films, and TV content spanning multiple genres. Among the available titles are projects featuring actors like Kevin Hart and Vivica A. Fox. According to the company, a new original title will be introduced every week.

As audiences continue shifting toward content designed for mobile viewing, reshaping traditional storytelling into vertical formats appears to be a logical evolution. Vurt positions itself as a platform aligned with this transformation.

The rapid growth of “micro-drama” platforms such as ReelShort and DramaBox highlights the increasing demand for engaging, short-form content. What once existed as a niche segment has now expanded into a multibillion-dollar market. Data from Appfigures shows that ReelShort is expected to reach around $1.2 billion in gross consumer spending in 2025, while DramaBox recorded $276 million in consumer spending last year. Even TikTok entered this space earlier this year by launching its own micro-drama app. Vurt also faces competition from newer platforms like Watch Club, which focuses on micro-drama content created by actors and writers affiliated with SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America (WGA).

A key factor that sets Vurt apart is its content distribution model. Unlike traditional streaming services, which typically involve complex, time-consuming distribution through aggregators or major studios, Vurt enables creators to submit their work directly. Once approved, filmmakers can upload their projects and have them accessible to audiences within 48 to 72 hours.

For monetisation, Vurt follows an AVOD (advertising-based video-on-demand) model, allowing creators to earn revenue through ads placed within their content. In addition, the platform offers a non-exclusive licensing agreement with a 50/50 revenue split, giving filmmakers a balanced opportunity to generate income from their work.

The platform is the vision of Ted Lucas, founder of Slip-N-Slide Records, a label known for selling millions of records for artists including Trick Daddy, Trina, Rick Ross, and Plies. Lucas developed the idea for Vurt while working on the distribution of his documentary “Miami Kingpins,” where he encountered the challenges filmmakers often face in getting their content distributed. He saw an opportunity to address this issue.

“Not every content creator and filmmaker has the resources and access to overcome these hurdles. I realised that it’s a problem that I could potentially fix,” Lucas said.

Vurt’s founding team includes experienced industry professionals such as Eric Tomosunas, founder of Swirl Films; director and producer Mark A. Samuels; and angel investor Hilmon Sorey. Tarik Brooks, a former executive at BET and REVOLT, also contributes as an advisor.

With younger audiences increasingly consuming content on mobile devices, the reception of vertical storytelling among independent creators and major streaming platforms remains an area to watch. Whether this trend will lead to full-length vertical shows on Netflix or original films designed for platforms like TikTok remains uncertain. Still, the shift toward vertical content is clearly gaining momentum.

“The way people consume content has already changed, and we’re building something that fits that future,” Lucas said.

Vurt is currently available as a free app on both the App Store and Google Play. A web version is also accessible, offering a streaming-like experience while remaining fully focused on vertical-format content.