25Q4 | Unlearning Film Writing: What Vertical Dramas Demand from Screenwriters

Today’s episode features a conversation from our 2025 Q4 Short Drama Forum with Isabel Dréan — a produced vertical-series writer with a #1 show on Vigloo, and the creator of the Vertical Series Masterclass and Vertical Incubator. In this interview, Isabel talks about what makes vertical stories work—from archetypes and emotional intensity to the “espresso shot” pacing of short dramas. She also shares insights on adapting long-form scripts into mobile-first storytelling, why horror and thrillers are perfect for vertical formats, and how writers can unlearn traditional screenwriting to hit the emotional bullseye. Let’s dive in.--📘 Want to dive deeper into the storytelling logic behind global short dramas?Check out my book — Short Drama Writing 101: From Industry Logic to Social Psychology — a 135-page guide for producers, writers, and platform strategists.👉 https://payhip.com/b/K82oz🌿 Just starting out or curious about how short dramas work?Try my online course — f— designed for grassroots creators and newcomers who want to understand short-drama storytelling in a fun, accessible way.👉 https://payhip.com/b/oMALI