Vertical Reality Films releases The Protocol on YouTube
Vertical Reality Films released The Protocol Season 1 on October 30. Written by Brian Eason and directed by Crystal Lizama, the sci-fi romance thriller comprises 25 vertical episodes totaling approximately 43 minutes.
LOS ANGELES, October 31, 2026: Vertical Reality Films released the first season of The Protocol on October 30, making the original sci-fi romance thriller available on YouTube and through the studio’s website. Written by Brian Eason and directed by Crystal Lizama, the season consists of 25 sequential vertical episodes with a combined runtime of approximately 43 minutes.
According to the studio, production was completed in roughly two weeks on a production budget under $1,000. The release is the first original production from Vertical Reality Films, an independent creative studio co-founded by Lizama and Eason.
Story and episode format
The Protocol follows Solar, an artificial intelligence specialist who discovers a classified protocol bearing her own name. The discovery draws her into a corporate conspiracy involving Cyber-Genetics, the company where she works.
Cassian, the company’s new chief executive, becomes a central figure in her investigation. After Solar is fired without explanation and then reinstated, their relationship develops amid hidden surveillance, unexplained events and questions about his interest in protecting her.
The story combines science-fiction mystery, romance and corporate intrigue. Episodes are intended to be watched in order, with the narrative continuing across the complete season. The series uses a 9:16 portrait format designed for viewing on phones. Short scripted series presented in this format are commonly described as vertical microdramas.
Writing and production
Eason completed the screenplay for all 25 episodes before production began. He is the studio’s co-founder, creative partner and screenwriter.
Lizama directed the series and handled AI-assisted visual production and editing. Her preparation included developing character references and location images, followed by detailed scene prompts based on the screenplay.
During production, Lizama rendered, reviewed and edited every scene. She evaluated generated footage for character continuity and selected material for the final sequence of episodes. Editing included assembling scenes and adjusting pacing, suspense and emotional progression.
The production used AI-assisted image and video generation under human direction. The screenplay was written by Eason, with visual development, footage selection and final editing handled by Lizama.
Viewing information
All 25 episodes of Season 1 are available through the Vertical Reality Films website and its official YouTube channel, @verticalrealityfilms. The website provides access to the season in episode order, along with the synopsis and production credits.
About Vertical Reality Films
Vertical Reality Films is an independent creative studio co-founded by Crystal Lizama and Brian Eason. Its productions focus on original sci-fi films, thrillers and vertical microdramas.