Event Details
Join us for an engaging online conversation exploring the rise of vertical filmmaking and the future of mobile-first storytelling with award-winning creators Zao Wang and Rachel Zilberg. Together, they’ll discuss storytelling for vertical formats, shooting for 9:16, audience behavior and viewing habits, branded content opportunities, monetization strategies, and where the future of vertical film is headed. Moderated by TCFF Executive Director Jatin Setia. Whether you're a filmmaker, content creator, student, consumer, or simply curious about the future of digital storytelling, this virtual event lets you tune in from anywhere — no travel required. Grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and join the conversation from home or wherever inspiration finds you. When & Where 📅 Thursday, June 18, 2026 💻 Online Zoom Event Schedule 🕖 6:45 PM – Zoom doors open 🎤 7:00–8:00 PM – Panel discussion followed by a short Q&A Tickets 🎟 Regular Admission – $10 🎟 TCFF Members – FREE About the Panelists Zao Wang is a Beijing-born writer and director who creates psychological horror, thriller, sci-fi, and dark comedy projects that blend multicultural perspectives with bold visual storytelling. A Tribeca alum and NYU Tisch MFA graduate, his work includes Honeymoon Suite, Full Moon Club, 5 States of Fear, The Wandering Earth 2, and A Family Guide to Hunting. Handpicked by J.J. Abrams as a Directing Fellow at Bad Robot, Zao has collaborated with NBCUniversal, Sony, HBO, Tencent Pictures, and Tomorrow Studios. Since 2023, he has directed vertical microdramas, including Office Enemies, winner of the Apollo Award for Best Vertical Drama of the Year. Rachel Zilberg is an award-winning vertical screenwriter and Lead Writer at Shorts. After graduating from Stanford University with Honors in the Arts, she developed narratives for romance-focused mobile games before entering the microdrama space in 2023. Since joining Shorts in 2024, she has led development on more than 25 original series, including Oops! I Married My Enemy and Office Enemies, earning multiple Vertical Drama Love Fan Awards and Apollo Awards. Her work spans romance, thriller, mafia, and young adult genres.