Academic Symposium | The Global Journey of Chinese Short Dramas: Opportunities, Challenges, and Talent Transformation

ICCI 2025-10-25 1

On September 27, 2025, ICCI hosted the academic symposium “Global Focus: The Overseas Expansion of Chinese Short Dramas—Opportunities, Challenges, and the Transformation of Screen Talent Training” at Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s Xuhui Campus.

The event brought together scholars and industry leaders from China and abroad, including Weimin ZHANG, Dean of ICCI, SJTU; Ben LEE, Clinical Professor and Associate Director of the Master of Communication Management Program at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism; James WANG, General Manager of the International Short Drama Division at COL Group and CEO of FlareFlow; Xiaoda CHEN, Associate Dean of the Shanghai Vancouver Film School and Associate Professor at the Shanghai Film Academy of Shanghai University; producer Adam Fratto; Zuolin FENG, Head of Production at Content Republic; Madeline Warren, Associate Professor at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts; Karl Bardosh, Associate Arts Professor at New York University; Anna Thomas, Head of Screenwriting at the American Film Institute; Gabrielle Kelly, screenwriter and producer; and Hong CAO, Managing Partner at Dong Xi Entertainment Co., Ltd.

In the opening session, Weimin ZHANG and Ben LEE delivered welcome remarks, highlighting ICCI’s sustained commitment to film and media education and the growing global footprint of China’s micro-drama industry. The symposium was moderated by Professor Ben LEE.

Keynote Presentations: Industry and Academic Perspectives

James WANG and Xiaoda CHEN delivered keynote speeches offering complementary perspectives from industry and academia on the transformation of China’s vertical micro-drama sector.

WANG focused on the overseas trajectory of Chinese micro-dramas, noting that while Chinese companies currently dominate the global short drama space, they face significant challenges such as story homogenization, copyright risks, and rising competition. He proposed four key strategies for sustainable expansion: content innovation and localization, AI-powered production, robust copyright protection and compliance, and ecosystem-driven cross-sector collaboration.

CHEN’s keynote addressed the "premiumization" of micro-dramas in China. He shared recent policy developments from the National Radio and Television Administration and local authorities, and examined transformation strategies across three dimensions: building industrial systems, enhancing audiovisual aesthetics, and fostering genre innovation with emotional depth. Drawing from case studies, he emphasized the need for standardized production workflows, data-driven decision-making, and real-time audience tracking. On the creative side, he called for a return to writer-led production models, auteur directors, and a move away from influencer-driven casting to elevate artistic integrity.

CHEN’s keynote addressed the "premiumization" of micro-dramas in China. He shared recent policy developments from the National Radio and Television Administration and local authorities, and examined transformation strategies across three dimensions: building industrial systems, enhancing audiovisual aesthetics, and fostering genre innovation with emotional depth. Drawing from case studies, he emphasized the need for standardized production workflows, data-driven decision-making, and real-time audience tracking. On the creative side, he called for a return to writer-led production models, auteur directors, and a move away from influencer-driven casting to elevate artistic integrity.

Roundtable Discussion: Global Ecosystems and Creative Ethics

Following the keynote speeches, six experts—Adam Fratto, Zuolin FENG, Madeline Warren, Karl Bardosh, Anna Thomas, and Gabrielle Kelly—joined a thought-provoking roundtable discussion on the global short-form drama ecosystem. The discussion explored the evolution of vertical storytelling, Hollywood’s engagement with the micro-drama format, cultural differences in audience preferences, the viewing habits of Generation Z, and the roles of governments and unions in shaping the industry’s ethical and creative standards.

Looking Ahead: Innovation, Partnerships, and Cultural Reach

China’s vertical micro-dramas are not only pioneering a new mode of cultural exchange but also catalyzing transformation within the broader creative industries. As this fast-emerging format continues to gain global traction, it presents new possibilities for storytelling, technology, and cross-border collaboration. The symposium encouraged participants to explore how Chinese narratives can better resonate with international audiences through creative innovation, technological empowerment, and strategic partnerships. ICCI will continue to foster dialogue and cooperation to support the sustainable development of the short drama industry and advance the global presence of Chinese creative culture.


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