At the 2026 Hollywood Movie Awards, a standout panel explored how vertical dramas are rapidly reshaping production models, casting practices, and long-term career pathways for actors across film and new media. Panelists emphasized that this format represents a structural evolution of the studio system, driven by real-time audience data, global market growth, and a scroll-first viewing culture competing directly with social media. The discussion highlighted vertical storytell

I recently had the opportunity to speak on a Vertical Dramas panel at the Hollywood Movie Awards, alongside casting director Paul Ruddy, and platform leaders Yoko Chen (GoodShort) and Jenny Rosen (DramaBox). The conversation was less about hype and more about clarity—specifically, how this format fits into the larger ecosystem actors are navigating today.

"Interviewer: You’ve built multiple platforms alongside your creative career—Moonlit Wings Productions, Studio for Performing Arts LA, and the Studio for Performing Arts Foundation. What does each one do, and how do they work together? Walid: Each platform plays a specific role within one connected ecosystem. Moonlit Wings Productions is my creative banner, where I develop original film, theatre, and live storytelling projects as a writer, director, and producer. Studio for

Vertical dramas are quickly changing how stories are told and how actors get cast. This 2026 HAMA exclusive panel in Los Angeles brings together industry leaders to break down how short form vertical storytelling is reshaping the entertainment landscape and creating real opportunities for performers.

Harriet, a once-promising filmmaker, is stuck in the suburbs of New Jersey. Alienated from her cheating husband and spurned by her teenage daughter, she secretly enrolls in film school to revive her long-lost dream.

"Today, Walid Chaya is actively developing new film and television projects. One of the most anticipated is his feature film Crazy Rich Arabs, a project that blends humor, strong characters, and emotional truth. Through this work, he aims to challenge stereotypes while offering entertaining and relatable stories.

"For Chaya, returning to the MOTY gathering offered both a creative recharge and an opportunity to reconnect with peers across film, television, and fashion. With several new projects in development, the evening served as a timely reminder of the community and momentum that fuel the entertainment industry."- Ellora Cummins, Level Up Magazine

"As a filmmaker rooted in both Hollywood and the Middle East, Walid Chaya’s presence at Murex D’Or was more than a red-carpet moment; it was a bridge between industries, cultures, and creative visions. His commitment to telling authentic, globally resonant Arab stories reinforces the growing influence of Middle Eastern voices in world cinema." - Prabhat Dewangan, UAE Stories

"Walid Chaya has added one more gem to his unending streak of genius work with his new project, “The Barent Trap.” -Level Up Magazine

If you’re an actor, filmmaker, or just someone who loves powerful storytelling, the Richmond International Film Festival (RIFF) is about to deliver two can’t-miss screenings you’ll want front-row seats for. This September, VCU arts Theatre alumni-turned-filmmakers are returning to RVA to share their latest work—films that have been making waves from Hollywood all the way back home.

If you’re an actor, filmmaker, or creative spirit looking for career inspiration, this is one event you’ll want to mark in bold on your calendar. On Friday, September 26, join award-winning filmmakers and proud VCU alumni Walid Chaya and Collin Chute for an exciting RVA Alumni Q&A at VCU arts Theatre. This isn’t your typical lecture—think of it as a behind-the-scenes conversation where you can ask questions, swap ideas, and walk away with real-world strategies to fuel your

Harriet, a once-promising filmmaker, is stuck in the suburbs of New Jersey. Alienated from her cheating husband and spurned by her teenage daughter, she secretly enrolls in film school to revive her long-lost dream.

Harriet, a once-promising filmmaker, is stuck in the suburbs of New Jersey. Alienated from her cheating husband and spurned by her teenage daughter, she secretly enrolls in film school to revive her long-lost dream.

Watch Walid Chaya with Miriam Shore in the World Premire of MAGIC HOUR, an Official Selection of the Berkshire International Film Festival.

Singing something a little unexpected this week at Musical Mondays LA! 🎯 Join me for the 10pm Live Spot — FREE at The Chapel at WeHo 🤩 Our “Miscast” line-up is full of surprises, and I can’t wait to share mine!

"Award-winning filmmaker Walid Chaya is developing a bold new romantic comedy that bridges continents, cultures, and identities. Crazy Rich Arabs, co-written by Chaya and fellow writer Jimmy Monack, is a vibrant, character-driven feature film set between Beirut and Los Angeles. Currently in early development and seeking production partners, the film offers a fresh take on love, family, and the complicated ways we define success and selfhood. Chaya first gained attention fo

"What happens when one brother is hiding a secret, the other is living large, and a wedding is about to blow it all up.  Crazy Rich Arabs, the new feature film in development by Walid Chaya, is a fast, funny, and heartfelt take on culture, chaos, and identity in the modern Middle East diaspora. Set between Beirut and Los Angeles, the film follows twin Arab-American brothers raised on opposite sides of the world. Omar is a high-powered divorce lawyer in L.A., all confidence

"As the credits rolled and applause filled the room, it was clear that Darn It Darla! had struck a chord. The sharp dark comedy by Walid Chaya took home the 'Best Comedy Short' award at this year's Love Wins International Film Festival, earning both critical and audience praise for its bold storytelling and layered message about personal freedom in the face of manipulation..."

"A dark comedy with teeth, Darn It Darla! made a memorable mark during its screening at the Hollywood Arab Film Festival (HAFF), where it was featured as part of the LA Voices Showcase highlighting standout talent from the Los Angeles filmmaking community.

"A dark comedy with teeth, Darn It Darla! made a memorable mark during its screening at the Hollywood Arab Film Festival (HAFF), where it was featured as part of the LA Voices Showcase highlighting standout talent from the Los Angeles filmmaking community.