On October 28, the Establishment of the Hengdian International Short Drama Alliance and Project Launch Conference was successfully held at the Nanhai Hall of Hengdian International Trade Hotel. As the inaugural event of the Hengdian Short Drama Global Outreach Series, the conference was themed “Connecting Resources, Needs, and Channels.”It brought together leading film production companies, top streaming platforms, renowned IP licensors, major investors, and prominent film education institutions to embark on a new chapter in the global expansion of Chinese short dramas.
Alliance Establishment: Building a Global Platform for Short Drama Production and Distribution
The alliance was initiated by Hengdian World Studios, The China Internet Writers Village, ShortMax, DreameShort, SpringReel, WOWORLD, and UniVerse Culture. In the opening speech, Yang Zhiwei, Assistant President of Hengdian Group,Chairman of Hengdian World Studios, emphasized the rapid growth of short dramas in the global market and Hengdian’s role in leading this trend. Hengdian International Short Drama Alliance will serve as a collaborative platform to support Chinese short drama creators in expanding their reach to international audiences and promoting Chinese culture worldwide.
The launch ceremony saw key representatives from the alliance pressing the start button, officially marking the alliance’s establishment. Moving forward, the alliance aims to become a hub for the production and global distribution of short dramas.
Resource Sharing: New Opportunities in Global Collaboration
In the resource-sharing session, the alliance member—SpringReel presented its success stories, including the hit dramas “Forbidden Desires: Alpha’s Love” and “Chasing My Rejected Wife.” These works have achieved millions of views and significant revenue, offering valuable insights into the international potential of short dramas. SpringReel also announced a collaboration with leading VFX company Timeaxis to produce sci-fi short dramas like “Digger Girls.” Additionally, Chen Qiufan’s work, “Mountain Songs and Sea Ballads,” will blend ethnic heritage with modern sci-fi, representing a unique fusion of tradition and technology.
Promoting Cultural Heritage through Short Dramas
The event featured the premiere of the intangible cultural heritage short drama, “The Beauty of Glaze.” Co-produced by CCTV’s Asia-Africa Center and the alliance member—UniVerse Culture, the drama aims to share the essence of Chinese culture globally through short drama as a new cultural medium. Zhao Yong, Co-founder of UniVerse Culture highlighted the strategic importance of non-material heritage in connecting cultures worldwide.
Honoring Talent: DreameShort Screenwriting Awards
The conference concluded with the DreameShort National University Scriptwriting Competition Award Ceremony. Six outstanding scripts were awarded by Yang Yang, Global Business Director of Stary Group, and the winners received official appointment certificates to join the alliance’s talent pool, contributing to the future of short drama production and distribution.
Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Future in Global Storytelling
The successful launch of the Hengdian International Short Drama Alliance marks a new beginning for Chinese short dramas on the world stage. With the combined efforts of alliance members and partners, Hengdian is committed to fostering innovation and high-quality development in the industry, bringing more compelling Chinese stories to global audiences.