The Human Psychology of Vertical Drama
Behind the lens
Jacqueline van Eyk, the Vertical Godmother, guides actors as a coach and manager. In her LinkedIn newsletter, she shares how vertical drama is transforming the way performers connect, act, and tell stories.
Vertical drama is changing storytelling. The close-up, phone-first format creates an intimate, almost one-on-one experience for viewers, making performances feel personal but also emotionally demanding for actors.
Actors navigate semi-reciprocal relationships with fans. Comments, DMs, and live interactions give the illusion of dialogue, yet algorithms filter and stage these connections. Fans feel involved, actors feel seen, but the closeness is often symbolic rather than social.
This intimacy comes with risks. Rapid emotional cycles, constant attention, and algorithm-driven visibility can cause fatigue, blurred boundaries, and anxiety. Sustainable engagement means setting limits, keeping interactions public, and using de-roling rituals.
Vertical drama is a …
