Germany’s NTV is branching out with lighter unscripted primetime formats via partnerships as it seeks to bring a broader range of viewers to the news and documentaries channel.

RTL Deutschland and World Storytelling Media Group have unveiled a new unscripted coproduction developed to help broadcasters and digital platforms attract a diverse range of audiences in an increasingly fragmented and financially challenging media landscape.

The Nordics’ five public broadcasters and national film bodies have joined forces to launch the region’s first formal coproduction alliance for the documentary sector, along with a call for ambitious, mainstream contemporary documentaries.

Mansa’s co-founder Nate Parker sees microdramas as a ‘gateway’ through which the platform will help nurture creator-owned IP and plug a gap for culture-driven vertical storytelling for black audiences, while looking for the Christopher Nolan of the microseries space.

Yoreflix’s move into the microdrama space is helping the fledgling UK-based streamer to accelerate its original historical drama ambitions.

DR’s digital-first documentary strategy is seeking more big splashes with international coproduction partners as funding challenges continue to bite.

Shortform video platform Kwai Brazil’s Claudine Bayma urges external producers and creatives to think outside the box, with the current microdrama wave ‘just the beginning’ when it comes to vertical programming opportunities.

Independent vertical video start-up Storyshort is blazing a trail in France with its local take on the microdrama format and is keen to expand its slate of stories reflecting social topics, along with pushing into English-language markets.

Vertical drama production specialist Reelforce Studio is set to launch its DramaNow platform and is keen to take big risks in new genres to keep viewers engaged with microdramas.

US pay TV broadcaster RFD Network has pivoted to a content-first multiplatform strategy fuelled by investment in originals focused on rural lifestyle and entertainment to attract younger viewers, and offering opportunities for international coproductions.