Case-Naftra announced the launch of the Union Verticals Agreement, a new media contract created to meet the needs of serialized micro and vertical dramas.
The agreement will cover a variety of productions with budgets under $300,000 and will provide protection and flexibility for SAG-AFTRA creators, actors and producers.
“We are thrilled to present an agreement that reflects the way today's audiences consume content while providing protection and support for performers. This agreement meets the realities of these productions – their pace, their budgets and their creative ambitions, while upholding the union's core standards for protecting actors,” said chief negotiator and national executive director Duncan Crabtree Ireland in a press release. “Verticals are more than just a new format, they open up more opportunities to tell new stories, reaching new audiences every day.”
“Our members are always looking for great work opportunities. New formats are emerging as technology advances and creative ways to reach audiences are found,” Crabtree-Ireland said. “SAG-AFTRA sees the emergence of so-called 'verticals' as an exciting new space. This fast-growing format is gaining popularity, and we are here to support our artists in their development and use of this new business model. By offering a contract tailored to the unique needs of these projects, our union is rising to the occasion. As vertical business experiences significant growth, our relationships with producers will also grow.”
Diversity reported last month What microdramas revenues were $819 million in 2024, and revenues are expected to grow to $3.8 billion by the end of the decade. In China, micro-drama revenues are expected to surpass theatrical box office receipts this year.
The vertical agreement will be available later this month to SAG-AFTRA union members.
