Vurt launches mobile-first streaming platform for indie filmmakers

On Tuesday, Vurt launched its mobile-first vertical streaming platform for independent filmmakers. The platform launched with more than 100 episodes of original micro-series, full-length films, and TV shows, including content featuring actors Kevin Hart and Vivica A. Fox. The company plans to release a new original title on the platform each week. Vurt enters the micro-drama market—defined as short-form video content formatted for mobile screens—which has grown into a multibillion-dollar industry. The platform faces competition from other players in this segment, including ReelShort, DramaBox, Watch Club, and TikTok, which launched its own micro-drama app in January. ReelShort is projected to achieve about $1.2 billion in gross consumer spending in 2025, while DramaBox generated $276 million in consumer spending last year.

Vurt differentiates itself from traditional streaming services through its distribution and monetization model. Unlike traditional streaming services that involve distribution processes through aggregators, Vurt allows creators to submit their content directly. Once approved, filmmakers can upload their projects, making them available to audiences within a 48- to 72-hour timeframe. For monetization, Vurt operates on an AVOD (advertising-based video on demand) model, which allows creators to generate revenue through ad placements. The platform offers a non-exclusive licensing agreement with a 50/50 revenue split, providing filmmakers with an opportunity to profit from their creations. Vurt is available for free on the App Store and Google Play, alongside a web version dedicated solely to vertical content.

The platform was founded by Ted Lucas, the founder of Slip-N-Slide Records, who created Vurt after experiencing distribution challenges with his own documentary. The founding team also includes Eric Tomosunas of Swirl Films, director and producer Mark A. Samuels, and angel investor Hilmon Sorey, with former BET and REVOLT executive Tarik Brooks serving as an advisor. Lucas created the platform to address the distribution hurdles independent creators face. “Not every content creator and filmmaker has the resources and access to overcome these hurdles. I realized that it’s a problem that I could potentially fix,” Lucas said.

Why it matters

Vurt aims to solve distribution bottlenecks for independent filmmakers by bypassing traditional aggregators with a direct-submission model and faster turnaround times. By combining a 50/50 revenue split with an ad-supported model, the platform provides a path for indie creators to monetize vertical, short-form mobile video.