TVB and Tencent Video adapt classic dramas into short-form content

TVB has partnered with Tencent Video to forge a new path in landscape short-form dramas, adapting several of TVB’s classic library titles into the innovative format while co-developing original IP to enrich their joint content pipeline.

At the heart of the partnership is a "single content engine, dual-market execution" operating model tailored to the distinct media ecosystems of the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong.

The content will be deployed through localised distribution strategies: streaming as 15-minute landscape short-form episodes on Tencent Video in the Chinese Mainland, and airing as aggregated one-hour broadcasts during prime time on TVB Jade in Hong Kong.

The collaboration aims to revitalise TVB’s decades-rich IP archive through fresh expressions that resonate with younger demographics, unlocking the long-term commercial value of legacy titles.

Concurrently, both companies will leverage their combined production, operational, and distribution strengths to foster cross-border synergy and drive quality upgrades across Chinese short-form content.

Chung Shu Kai, vice president (drama co-production) of TVB, president of 77 Atelier said: “TVB’s library of classic dramas enjoys a deep fanbase and widespread cultural recognition across Chinese Mainland, representing a significant asset in Chinese-language media. Our collaboration with Tencent Video extends beyond celebrating these legacy titles; it leverages new media formats to unlock broader creative possibilities for Hong Kong drama production."

"Whether delivering landscape dramas for Chinese Mainland audiences or mini-series in Hong Kong, we remain committed to our rigorous production standards – innovating while staying true to the essence of Hong Kong storytelling. Looking ahead, we will continue exploring creative frontiers to deliver exceptional screen content across both markets," Chung added.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to TVB for more information.

The strategic pivot comes as short-form content dominates regional viewing habits. According to Omnicom Media’s "Hong Kong Video Content Viewing Landscape" survey, short-video platforms lead local engagement, driven by TikTok (39%), Xiaohongshu (28%), and Bilibili (25%). Meanwhile, Meta’s Threads has seen its usage triple to 34% since its 2023 launch, with approximately 40% of its user base actively engaging with video content.

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