VERTICAL FILMMAKING WORKSHOP
The Future of Storytelling Is Vertical
Friday, October 16, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
11726 95 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 1L9
Presented by Travis DesLaurier
Vertical filmmaking isn’t just traditional film turned sideways. It’s an entirely new storytelling format built for the way audiences watch, connect and consume content today.
Join the Edmonton Short Film Festival for an introduction to the rapidly growing world of vertical drama with Travis DesLaurier, one of the most recognizable actors working in the format, with more than 33 lead roles across leading vertical platforms.
WHY VERTICAL? WHY NOW?
Designed for mobile-first viewing, vertical dramas use fast-paced narratives, immediate emotional hooks, short episodes and cliffhangers to capture attention quickly and keep audiences watching. Successful vertical storytelling can require a hook within the first three to five seconds and continuous emotional escalation throughout an episode.
This isn’t simply a new aspect ratio. It requires filmmakers to rethink how stories are written, performed, shot and structured for audiences watching on their phones.
WHAT YOU’LL EXPLORE
Drawing on his extensive experience working in vertical drama, Travis will take participants inside this emerging form of entertainment and explore:
- What vertical drama is and how it differs from traditional film and television
- Why mobile-first storytelling is growing so quickly
- How stories are structured for short-form episodes
- The importance of immediate hooks, cliffhangers and audience retention
- How performance and framing change for the vertical screen
- How vertical productions can work with faster and lower-cost production models
- Where filmmakers, writers, actors and producers may find new opportunities
- How AI-assisted production tools are beginning to affect writing, editing, localization, marketing and production workflows
AI may make some aspects of production faster and more accessible, but authentic performance, human connection and compelling storytelling remain central to engaging an audience.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Whether you’re a filmmaker, writer, producer, actor, content creator or simply curious about where screen storytelling is heading, this workshop offers a practical introduction to filmmaking designed for the vertical screen.
Vertical drama isn’t replacing traditional filmmaking. It’s creating another space for filmmakers to tell stories, reach audiences and build careers. Understanding mobile-first storytelling now can give creators another set of tools as the entertainment industry continues to evolve. How Vertical dramas Are Changing the Filmmaking Industry (1).pdfPDF
Friday, October 16, 2026
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
11726 95 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 1L9