CARINSMOLINSKIIS LEADING THE THIRDWAVE OF VERTICALSTORYTELLING

In celebration of Women’s History Month this March, Eyes On Hollywood is highlighting women who are redefining success and making a lasting impact in their industries. Among them, Carin Smolinski stands out as a creative force reshaping today’s rapidly evolving entertainment landscape

From booking 27 vertical micro-drama series in just a year and a half to independently writing, directing, producing, and self-funding her own verticals, Carin Smolinski’s rise is testament that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Returning to acting at 50, she didn’t just step back in front of the camera, she stepped into creative leadership, determined to build better stories and stronger roles for women, especially those too often sidelined by industry tropes.

Now a Vertical Drama Love Awards nominee for Best Matriarch, founder of WEC Films, co-founder of ThirdWave Entertainment, and a fierce advocate for values-driven storytelling, Smolinski is helping shape the future of premium vertical content. In this candid conversation, she opens up about mature representation, creative risk-taking, working alongside her son, and why the third wave of vertical storytelling is just getting started.

What first inspired you to pursue a career in acting, and how did that path evolve into directing, writing, and producing as well?

“I’ve always been an actor. I was that kid putting on plays in my bedroom, and as I got older, I pursued it seriously, studying method acting full-time for two years.

Life took me in other directions for a while. I lived abroad and raised my children, and acting wasn’t the focus during that time.

When I came back to it in my early 50s, I truly thought I might book one or two roles. I never expected that within a year and a half I’d appear in 27 vertical micro-drama series.

Working so heavily in verticals was eye-opening. While the format is exciting, many of the tropes, especially for women, can be limiting.

Instead of complaining about it, I decided to do something about it. I wanted to create work I actually felt aligned with and proud of, so that’s what pushed me into writing, directing, and producing. It came from wanting better stories, better roles, and better environments, not just for myself, but for other women as well.”

“Success means alignment, doing work I’m proud of, with people I respect, in ways that feel meaningful and true.”

Carin has risen to be a go-to matriarch for leading international micro-drama apps, with 27 vertical micro-drama series in just 18 months. A powerful example of reinvention and momentum in one of the industry’s fastest-growing formats.

You’ve worked across multiple formats, including vertical series. What excites you most about this type of storytelling?

“What excites me most about vertical storytelling is that it’s still evolving. We’re very much at the beginning, and there’s a real opportunity to raise the bar in performance, writing, production quality, and the kinds of stories we tell.

Verticals also create huge opportunities for emerging talent, both in front of the camera and behind it. And the fans are phenomenal. They’re incredibly engaged and supportive, almost like a cheerleading squad, not just for the actors but also for creators who are trying to bring something fresh and new to vertical screens. That energy makes the work feel exciting and seen.”

How does your approach to performance change when you’re also involved behind the camera?

Being involved both behind and in front of the lens allows me to stay deeply connected to the storytelling while trusting the team to carry the rest.”

“It really comes down to having the right team and strong preparation. Directing and acting at the same time only works when there is excellent communication and trust. When everyone is grounded in shared values of respect, clarity, and a genuine love for the work, that’s when the magic happens.

Is there a role or project that marked a turning point in your career?

“As an actor, being nominated for Best Matriarch in a Vertical Drama at the Vertical Drama Love Awards feels especially significant. I was genuinely surprised and humbled, especially knowing the fans voted from over 100 countries. Mature women in verticals are often pivotal to the story, yet not always recognized for the longevity and experience we bring. Even being nominated feels like a win for mature actresses.

Behind the lens, Tides of Desire was a major turning point. Independently writing, producing, and shooting a vertical series in Costa Rica was a huge leap. Doing it alongside my son, Indiana Wilson, who served as Director of Photography, made it even more meaningful. That project showed me I could build something from the ground up and lead with heart and integrity.”

“Instead of complaining about the roles available, I decided to create the stories I actually wanted to tell.”
– Carin

The greatest part of this whole journey for Carin is being able to work alongside her son, DOP Indiana Wilson.

What do you see as the biggest opportunity and challenge within vertical storytelling?

“The opportunity is vast. Vertical storytelling is moving at breakneck speed, and this is the moment to solidify yourself in the industry while it’s still taking shape. It’s accessible and opens the door for new voices.

The biggest challenge is building a sustainable production and distribution model for independent creators. I would love to see revenue-share agreements and more transparency so filmmakers can build long-term careers while continuing to raise the quality of the work.”

As a co-founder of ThirdWave Entertainment, what inspired you to join forces, and what sets your company apart?

“ThirdWave is a values-based production company focused on cinematic, emotionally charged vertical microdramas that captivate audiences without compromising integrity. We focus on premium storytelling that delivers romance, tension, and emotional depth without relying on female degradation or toxic tropes.

We believe vertical storytelling is entering its third wave, one where craft, tone, and values matter as much as data. We’re currently creating our own IP and are also available as a full-service production partner for aligned vertical projects.”

How do you define success at this stage of your career?

“Success means alignment. Doing work I’m proud of, with people I respect, in ways that feel sustainable and meaningful. It means creating opportunities not just for myself, but for others. Fulfillment comes from knowing the work mattered and that it was made with care and integrity.”

Carin Smolinski’s journey proves that reinvention has no expiration date. With a fearless commitment to craft, collaboration, and conscious storytelling, she continues to carve out space for mature actresses while elevating the vertical format itself.

As vertical storytelling evolves, Smolinski isn’t just participating in the movement. She’s helping lead it. And if her current momentum is any indication, this next chapter may be her most impactful yet.