For decades, the cinematic experience—and most video content—was defined by the horizontal frame. But as smartphones became ubiquitous, a shift began. Now, increasingly, we consume video vertically, tailored to the screens we hold in our hands. A new program, VPRO Vertical Video, is taking a closer look at this evolving format, exploring its creative potential and the challenges it presents to filmmakers. The rise of vertical video isn’t just a technological adaptation. it’s a fundamental change in how stories are told.
The program, produced by VPRO in collaboration with GoShort – International Short Film Festival Nijmegen, doesn’t treat vertical video as a fleeting trend. Instead, it positions it as a legitimate art form worthy of serious consideration. As viewing habits continue to evolve, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts dominating attention, understanding the nuances of this format is crucial for both creators and audiences. The program acknowledges that the 9:16 aspect ratio—the standard for vertical video—demands a different approach to composition, editing, and storytelling than the traditional 16:9 widescreen format.
The Creative Landscape of Vertical Video
VPRO Vertical Video isn’t simply a theoretical discussion. The program features interviews with filmmakers actively working within the vertical space, including Hannah Swart, Leon Wohlrabe, and Jikke de Gruijter. These conversations delve into the unique opportunities offered by the format. Vertical video, filmmakers argue, can foster a more intimate connection with the viewer, mimicking the way we naturally experience the world through our phones. The immersive quality of full-screen vertical video can be particularly effective for short-form narratives, documentaries, and experimental projects.
Annelies Termeer, an editor at VPRO, provides an overview of the genre, tracing its development and highlighting key examples. The program also embraces a somewhat ironic approach: showcasing a wealth of vertical videos on a decidedly horizontal, traditional cinema screen. This juxtaposition underscores the inherent tension—and the potential for innovation—in adapting a mobile-first format for a larger, more communal viewing experience. The program aims to dissect what makes vertical video work, and what pitfalls to avoid.
Challenges and Considerations for Filmmakers
While the creative possibilities are exciting, vertical video isn’t without its challenges. One key issue is adapting established cinematic techniques to the narrower frame. Traditional rules of composition, camera movement, and editing often need to be rethought. Filmmakers must also consider the impact of platform-specific algorithms and user behavior. What works on TikTok may not necessarily translate to Instagram or YouTube.
Another consideration is sound design. Due to the fact that many viewers consume vertical video on their phones without headphones, audio clarity and impact are particularly important. The program explores how filmmakers are experimenting with spatial audio and other techniques to create a compelling sonic experience even on small speakers. The limitations of the format can, in some ways, be a catalyst for creativity, forcing filmmakers to find new and innovative ways to engage their audience.
Beyond Social Media: Vertical Video as Art
The program’s exploration of vertical video extends beyond its prevalence on social media platforms. It examines how artists and filmmakers are using the format to create more ambitious and experimental work. This includes exploring interactive narratives, augmented reality experiences, and other cutting-edge technologies. The goal is to demonstrate that vertical video isn’t just a tool for quick entertainment; it can be a powerful medium for artistic expression.
Deborah Fidder, the host of VPRO Vertical Video, guides viewers through these discussions, offering insights and asking probing questions. The program’s format—combining interviews, film clips, and analysis—provides a comprehensive overview of the vertical video landscape. It’s a timely and relevant exploration of a format that is rapidly changing the way we create and consume video content. The program’s approach is not to dictate best practices, but to foster a dialogue about the possibilities and limitations of this emerging medium.
The program’s focus on Dutch filmmakers—Swart, Wohlrabe, and de Gruijter—highlights the growing creative scene within the Netherlands. However, the themes and challenges discussed are universal, resonating with filmmakers and audiences around the world. The increasing accessibility of filmmaking tools and the proliferation of mobile devices have democratized video creation, empowering a new generation of storytellers to experiment with vertical formats.
As the program demonstrates, the future of video is likely to be increasingly vertical. Understanding the artistic and technical considerations of this format is essential for anyone involved in the creation or consumption of visual content. VPRO Vertical Video offers a valuable starting point for this exploration, providing a thoughtful and insightful look at a rapidly evolving medium.
The program’s exploration of vertical video is particularly relevant as platforms continue to prioritize short-form video content. The demand for engaging, mobile-friendly videos is only expected to grow in the coming years, creating new opportunities for filmmakers and artists. The next step for VPRO and GoShort will be to continue showcasing innovative vertical video projects and fostering a community of creators pushing the boundaries of the format.
What are your thoughts on the rise of vertical video? Share your comments below and let us know how you consider this format will shape the future of storytelling.
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