Utah Enters the Vertical Drama Space

The Utah film community is on a new frontier of storytelling with the release of The Billionaire’s Secret Heir, now streaming its first 10 episodes on ReelShort. The series is part of ReelShorts’ Reel Vertical Impact Contest and showcases the creativity Utah has to offer.

The project brings together an impressive team with deep ties to the Utah International Film Festival (UIFF). Cast members Charla Bocchicchio, Miah Green, and Jared Palmer are all proud UIFF alumni, representing the festival’s growing reputation as a launchpad for rising talent.

Behind the scenes, the series was produced and written by UIFF founder Warren Workman, in collaboration with Golden Works Entertainment, the production company founded by Jonathan Robert Andrus and Brandon Ho. Directing the series is Tyson Whitney, who studied under Workman during his time teaching at Salt Lake Community College, making the project a full-circle moment that connects past mentorship to present creative achievement.

“Our goal is to create an opening to make more vertical dramas here in Utah,” said Workman. “We have amazing people, locations and a treasure trove of resources to make shows never before seen on vertical platforms.”

The Billionaire’s Secret Heir showcases Utah’s ability to adapt to the latest storytelling formats while collaborating with experienced professionals and emerging voices. With the mix of alumni, mentors, and new industry innovators, The Billionaire’s Secret Heir is another example of the lasting impact of the Utah International Film Festival and serves as a reminder that the festival is a hub for filmmakers to connect, grow, and launch projects with national and international reach.