Shorties Studios, a newly formed micro-drama production company, has officially launched under the leadership of seasoned executives Kelly Luegenbiehl, Jon Koa, and Onur Güvenatam. With operations in Los Angeles, London, and Istanbul, the company aims to revolutionize serialized storytelling by focusing on commercial, mobile-first, short-form vertical video series designed for global audiences.
Onur Güvenatam emphasized the shift in global viewing behavior: “With OGM Pictures, we have proven that Turkish storytelling can resonate powerfully across the world — from local sensations to global hits. Today, audience behavior is shifting once again, and with Shorties Studios we are stepping confidently into that next frontier.” His productions, including “Golden Boy” and Netflix originals “The Protector” and “The Gift,” have reached more than 120 countries, underscoring his international production credentials.
Jon Koa, formerly EVP of Comedy Development at CBS and a veteran of ABC and Condé Nast, highlighted the monetization potential of the format: “Vertical storytelling, with its real-time data and analytics, gives us clear signals not only on what resonates, but also where the opportunities for virality, brand partnerships, and full 360° monetization truly live.” He added that Shorties Studios will bring “world-class short-form series that will live across multiple platforms and reach audiences in ways they never could before”.
The studio’s launch responds directly to changing media consumption habits and will produce content across subscription streaming services, social platforms, and ad-supported branded entertainment. “When I left legacy media 10 years ago to pioneer international content for Netflix, no one could have imagined the impact non-English language content would have on the world,” said Luegenbiehl. “Today, I see that same potential with vertical content. We want to meet audiences where they are and once again help shape the next evolution of storytelling with Vertical Premium Generated Content (PGC). Verticals are the moment!”
Collectively, the founders bring decades of experience shaping premium content across platforms. Luegenbiehl led global franchises at Netflix including “The Witcher,” “Lupin,” and “Dark,” driving a 50% increase in U.S. viewership of non-English content between 2017 and 2021. Güvenatam’s work has earned Emmy nominations and multiple international awards. Koa was instrumental in developing hit comedies like “Ghosts,” “Bob Hearts Abishola,” and “The Neighborhood,” as well as earlier work on “Modern Family” and “Black-ish”.
Shorties Studios intends to bridge the creative ambition of premium television with the agility and reach of mobile-first formats, targeting a new generation of content consumers while leveraging high-end production, proven audience analytics, and cross-platform adaptability.
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