short drama

Duanju, sometimes translated in English as microdrama, short drama, vertical drama, vertical minidrama, vertical series or mobile drama, is a type of short form web or television series that originated in China. It is also known as "microdrama" in English. These series typically feature 1–2 minute episodes, and a complete production may include 20 to 100 episodes, resulting in a total runtime similar to one or two movies. Produced specifically for smartphone viewing, many duanju are shot in vertical format and optimized for fragmented, bite-sized consumption on platforms such as Douyin. Some titles are further adapted into interactive film-style mobile games. Duanju is characterized by fast-paced plots and heightened melodrama, and can be compared to soap operas in English speaking countries, although in a more hyperactive style.