The Future of Entertainment: Bravo experimenting with 90-Second Reality Vertical Episodes
- Maria Granberg
- May 24
- 3 min read
The entertainment world is rapidly shifting towards shorter, vertical content for mobile viewing. Bravo network is introducing 90-second episodes for some reality shows, and I've been invited to audition for a similar 90-second vertical branded commercial series. These trends raise questions about the impact on storytelling, production, and viewer engagement.
Why Shorter Episodes Are Gaining Ground
Traditional TV shows and films typically run 20 to 60 minutes per episode, but the rise of mobile devices and changing viewer habits are prompting creators to consider 90-second episodes.
Attention spans are shorter
Studies show that average attention spans have decreased, especially among younger viewers. Quick, punchy content fits better into busy schedules and multitasking lifestyles.
Mobile-first consumption
Vertical videos and short episodes are designed for smartphones, where most people watch content today. It’s easier to watch a 90-second clip on the go than commit to a full-length episode.
Binge-watching in small doses
Short episodes allow viewers to consume a series in small chunks, making it feel less overwhelming and more flexible.
Cost-effective production
For creators and networks, producing shorter episodes can reduce costs and speed up release schedules, allowing for more experimentation.
Bravo’s move to 90-second reality show episodes is a clear example of these factors in action. Reality TV, known for its fast-paced drama, adapts well to this format, keeping viewers hooked with quick story beats.
How Vertical Formats Change Storytelling
Vertical video is not just a technical shift; it demands a new approach to storytelling. Unlike traditional horizontal screens, vertical formats require creators to rethink framing, pacing, and narrative structure.
Visual composition
Pacing and editing
Character focus
Interactive elements
For creators, this means learning new skills and experimenting with formats that break from traditional TV or film conventions.
How Audiences Benefit from 90-Second Episodes
Viewers gain several advantages from this new format:
Convenience
Watching a 90-second episode fits easily into breaks, commutes, or waiting times.
Variety
Short episodes allow audiences to sample multiple shows or series without a big time commitment.
Engagement
Quick, focused stories can deliver emotional highs and cliffhangers that encourage viewers to keep watching.
Mobile-friendly
Vertical videos are easier to watch on phones without rotating the device or zooming in.
Personalized experiences
Platforms can recommend short episodes based on viewer preferences, making content discovery more efficient.
This format caters to modern lifestyles where entertainment competes with many distractions.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the benefits, there are challenges to this format:
Story depth
It’s harder to develop complex plots or characters in 90 seconds.
Viewer fatigue
Constantly consuming short clips can feel fragmented or less satisfying.
Monetization
Networks and creators need new strategies to generate revenue from shorter content.
Quality control
Rapid production might impact the quality or consistency of episodes.
Platform dependency
Success depends on how well platforms support vertical video and short episodes.
Creators and networks must balance these factors to make the format sustainable.
Examples of Success in Short-Form Vertical Content
Several shows and brands have already found success with short vertical episodes:
Quibi (though short-lived)
Quibi launched with a focus on “quick bites” of entertainment under 10 minutes, mostly vertical. While it struggled, it proved there is interest in short-form mobile content.
Bravo’s 90-second reality episodes
By adapting popular reality shows into bite-sized episodes, Bravo taps into existing fan bases while attracting new viewers.
Branded series on Instagram and TikTok
Many brands create vertical video series lasting under two minutes to engage younger audiences.
Preparing for the Future as a Creator
If you want to thrive in this evolving landscape, consider these tips:
Master vertical filming techniques
Learn how to frame shots and edit for vertical screens.
Focus on storytelling economy
Practice telling compelling stories in very short time frames.
Stay adaptable
Be ready to work with different platforms and formats.
Build your personal brand
Authenticity resonates in short-form content.
Network with brands and producers
Opportunities for branded series and collaborations are growing.
This new era rewards creativity and flexibility.
What do you anticipate for the future of Verticals? Do you think more streaming services will adopt it?
I just wrote about microdramas and the rise of this version of content as well. It will be interesting to see how bigger studios and streamers adapt as well to compete with Tiktok and YouTube. Netflix will have to build it into their subscription model when they do!