Strictly Business Daily Variety -- Nonunion Microdrama Production Grows Fast in the U.S.; Takeaways From AFM With Elsa Keslassy
Nov 18, 2025
Join Gene Maddaus, Senior media reporter at Variety, who dives into the booming trend of nonunion microdrama production in the U.S. and the implications for actors. Elsa Keslassy, Variety's international editor, shares insights on the American Film Market, discussing its impact on independent films and notable deals, including those involving Mel Gibson and Marc Ruffalo. Together, they explore the creative dynamics of microdramas, the challenges of unionizing these projects, and the growing presence of U.S. companies in Europe.
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Microdramas Are A Growing Production Sector
- Microdramas are rapidly growing in the U.S. as a real, expanding production sector rather than a fad.
- They create real jobs but operate largely outside traditional union frameworks, reshaping entry paths for actors.
Non-Union Status Drives Talent Participation
- Microdramas function largely as non-union projects, making them accessible to non-SAG-AFTRA actors.
- That non-union status is creating tension as union members seek access to those jobs.
Actors Use Workarounds To Access Jobs
- Some actors resign from SAG-AFTRA, go FICOR, or work under pseudonyms to take microdrama jobs.
- These workarounds show how actors chase available work despite union rules.