Meet Industry Leaders
Connect with executives, producers, and platform decision-makers shaping vertical entertainment.
August 13–15, 2026 · SAHARA Las Vegas
Vertical Short Festival
The First Festival for Vertical Cinema
A global celebration of short-form films created for vertical screens — where mobile-first storytelling meets industry networking, talent discovery, and distribution opportunities.
Where Vertical Cinema Takes the Stage
Vertical Short Festival is a global celebration of short-form films created specifically for vertical screens. We elevate mobile-first storytelling and connect creators with the platforms, studios, and investors defining the next era of entertainment.
- Industry networking — curated mixers, panels, and one-on-one opportunities.
- Vertical drama focus — programming built for the micro-drama and mobile series ecosystem.
- Talent opportunities — discover performers and creators leading the 9:16 revolution.
- Production partnerships — meet studios and financiers backing vertical projects.
- Distribution pathways — learn how to place your work on global streaming platforms.
Built for Creators & Industry
Discover New Talent
Experience breakthrough vertical filmmakers and rising stars before they hit mainstream platforms.
Learn Market Trends
Panels and workshops on distribution, monetization, and the future of 9:16 storytelling.
Connect With Studios
Build relationships with production companies investing in mobile-first cinema.
Build Industry Relationships
Structured networking, mixers, and curated introductions across the vertical ecosystem.
Explore Vertical Drama Opportunities
Pitch, partner, and discover co-production paths in the fastest-growing format in entertainment.
Three Days of Programming
August 13–15, 2026 · Las Vegas, Nevada
- Guest & exhibitor registration and check-in
- Festival orientation and welcome briefing
- VIP welcome reception (VIP & Executive pass holders)
- Opening networking mixer
- Exhibit floor open · 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Industry panels, workshops & special appearances
- Vertical cinema screenings & creator showcases
- Evening awards programming & networking mixer
- Exhibit floor open · 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Distribution & platform strategy sessions
- Vertical Short Festival Awards Show (headline evening)
- Official festival afterparty
Industry Lineup
Meet the experts powering the future of vertical storytelling.
-p-500.jpg)
Eric Guilmette
Actor · Producer · Poet
A leading voice in vertical drama with dozens of series credits and award recognition for mobile-first storytelling.
Peyton Tucker
Actress
Rising star across top vertical platforms with a growing film and television footprint.
Jeff Violette
Actor
Known for compelling protagonist and antagonist roles across popular vertical micro-drama series.
Nick Ritacco
Actor · Athlete
Veteran of vertical and traditional screen with extensive on-set experience in the micro-drama space.
Brooke Moltrum
Actress
Acclaimed vertical film performer with a dedicated global fan base and festival recognition.
Felix Merback
Actor · Producer
Producer and performer at the forefront of the vertical micro-drama movement.
Sponsors & Collaborators
Vertical Visions Entertainment
Premium talent management and cinematic vertical film production.
Film Nevada
Nevada’s film office — production support, locations, and incentive expertise.
OPTIX Studios
State-of-the-art production studio built for modern vertical storytelling.
Magnificent Motion Picture Works
Driving innovation in vertical micro-drama production and market development.
Festival Tickets
Select a pass to register your interest. Our team will follow up with payment instructions — no checkout on this site.
General Admission
$125
+ taxes & fees
- Expo floor access (general admission)
- Select panels & workshops
- Public screenings (standard access)
- Vertical Short Festival Awards Show (Saturday, general seating)
- Fan experiences & signings (access only; fees may apply)
VIP Pass
$395
+ taxes & fees
- Everything in General Admission
- Reserved panel seating
- Awards show reserved section
- Priority fan experiences
- Exclusive VIP badge
- Afterparty access (non-hosted)
Industry Pass
$395
Early bird · + taxes & fees
- 2-day expo floor access (Fri–Sat)
- Full programming: keynotes, panels, workshops
- Early access to theatre screenings
- Industry brunch buffet (Fri & Sat mornings)
- Awards shows (evening, general seating)
- Nightlife & afterparties (access)
Executive Pass
$695
+ taxes & fees
- Everything in Industry Pass
- Priority seating (panels & programming)
- Upgraded awards show seating
- Select invitation-only networking mixers
- Fast-track check-in
- Early access to fan experiences
Limited capacity · Early pricing may increase · Executive benefits subject to availability
Join Us in Las Vegas
Secure your place at the premier festival for vertical cinema.
Register Now event@verticalstudio-ent.com