Guide2 min read
AI short dramas: what they are and where to watch
An AI short drama is a vertical short drama whose footage is made, in whole or in part, with generative AI video instead of a live-action shoot. They are now the majority: The Hollywood Reporter found that two-thirds of microdramas released outside China in Q3 2026 were AI-generated.
Updated · By the Sidehop team
01How AI short dramas are made
A writer plans the story and episodes, then each scene is generated as video: characters, sets, camera moves, voices and music. Editors assemble the clips into 1–2 minute episodes. Because there is no shoot, a studio can make styles that would be expensive in live action, such as 3D animation, anime, period drama and fantasy, and can release shows much faster.
02Are AI short dramas any good?
Quality varies more than with live action. The best ones keep characters consistent from episode to episode and tell a tight story; weak ones drift, with faces and settings changing between shots. Judge by the free episodes before paying for the rest.
03Where to watch AI short dramas
Most big short drama apps now mix AI-generated shows into their catalogs without always labeling them. Sidehop makes its own original shows with AI video, including true crime retellings and animated and 3D romance. Its 60 shows play in a browser and the first 3 episodes of each are free.
04AI dramas you can interact with
Sidehop also runs Sidehop Live, where AI virtual streamers stream continuously and viewers send messages, gifts and Super Chats that change what happens next on stream.
Popular on Sidehop
Start any of these in your browser. The first episodes are free.
Frequently asked questions
What is an AI short drama?
A vertical short drama whose footage is generated with AI video tools rather than filmed with actors.
How many short dramas are made with AI?
The Hollywood Reporter found that two-thirds of microdramas released outside China in Q3 2026 were AI-generated.
Where can I watch AI dramas for free?
Sidehop’s original shows are made with AI video, and the first 3 episodes of each play free in a browser without an account.
Can I tell if a short drama is AI-generated?
Not always. Look for characters or sets that change between shots, and check the app or studio description; some label AI shows, many do not.
