The organizers of MIPCOM Cannes have announced that in 2025, micro-series and vertical content will receive the status of one of the key directions of the business program. The decision was made against the backdrop of the rapid growth of this segment: according to MIPCOM, vertical storytelling has transformed from an experimental format into one of the fastest-growing sectors of the entertainment industry.
Why Micro-Series Have Become a Priority for MIPCOM
According to MIPCOM Director Lucy Smith, the vertical content market is attracting more and more investment, and platforms, producers, and technology companies are moving from experiments to scalable business models. «The focus is shifting to repeatable formats, international licensing, and new revenue sources,» the organizers’ statement notes.
Key Speakers and Participants
At MIPCOM Cannes, which will take place from October 12 to 15, 2025, two headliners specializing in vertical storytelling will speak:
- Anthony Zuiker — creator of the CSI: Crime Scene Investigation franchise, recently appointed «Chief Crime Officer» of the Cinemalistics platform, which produces vertical true-crime content using generative AI. Zuiker is also writing a micro-series for GammaTime — a vertical platform founded in 2025 by former Miramax CEO Bill Block, ex-Google Gaming head Slava Mudrykh, and Quibi veteran Alex Montalvo.
- Anatolii Kasianov — co-founder and co-CEO of the Ukrainian company Holywater, which owns the vertical app My Drama. In October 2024, Holywater received investment from Fox Entertainment with a commitment to release over 200 new micro-series, including 40 shows from moral content creator Dhar Mann.
The organizers promise to announce additional speakers later.
New Formats and Platforms for Micro-Series
MIPCOM is introducing several innovations focused on vertical content:
- Special social spaces for participants interested in micro-series.
- An updated networking platform with a separate «vertical content» category — it will operate in parallel with existing speed matchmaking sessions for scripted and unscripted content.
- An invitation-only Global Microdrama & Vertical Leaders’ Summit (details to be announced later).
Additionally, MIPCOM is partnering with the podcast The Media Odyssey for a special recording dedicated to the era of premium vertical television. The episode will be hosted by Evan Shapiro and Marion Ranchet, with guests including RoseBerry Media co-founders Guy Hamieri and Lior Friedman.
Organizers’ Opinion
«What was just emerging trends a year ago — vertical storytelling, the creator business, AI production — today attracts investment, forms scalable models, and becomes an important part of the global content economy. MIPCOM Cannes is designed precisely to bring together established media companies, creators, technology businesses, and investors for new partnerships and commercial opportunities,» said Lucy Smith.
MIPCOM Cannes 2025 promises to be a key platform for discussing the future of micro-series and vertical content. Participants will not only be able to listen to industry leaders but also establish business contacts in specialized zones. Stay tuned for announcements — the program will be expanded.
Ready to dive into the world of vertical storytelling? Mark the dates on your calendar and follow updates on the official MIPCOM website — exclusive sessions, networking with market leaders, and inspiring case studies await you. Don’t miss the main event of the year for content creators!