Unique selling points

Definition

Unique selling points (USPs) are the distinct features or benefits of a screenplay that set it apart from others, making it more attractive to potential buyers or producers. These points highlight what makes a story original, compelling, and marketable, helping to draw interest and investment. By emphasizing these unique aspects in a treatment or synopsis, writers can effectively communicate the value of their work to industry professionals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. USPs are critical for differentiating a screenplay in a competitive market and can influence the decisions of producers and agents.
2. Highlighting emotional resonance, unique character arcs, or innovative plot twists can serve as strong USPs when writing treatments and synopses.
3. A strong USP can create a memorable pitch that sticks in the minds of potential buyers and increases the chances of getting noticed.
4. USPs should be clearly articulated in treatments to ensure they are easily understood and appreciated by industry professionals.
5. Incorporating USPs in marketing materials can help maintain a consistent message about what makes the screenplay stand out.

Review Questions

• How can identifying unique selling points enhance the effectiveness of a treatment?
  • Identifying unique selling points allows a writer to focus on what makes their story distinct, which can grab the attention of potential buyers. By clearly presenting these points in a treatment, writers not only showcase their creative vision but also articulate the screenplay's value in a crowded market. This targeted approach helps ensure that key elements of the story resonate with producers looking for fresh material.
• Discuss how unique selling points relate to both genre and target audience when crafting a treatment.
  • Unique selling points must align with the chosen genre and target audience to be effective. For example, if a screenplay is a romantic comedy aimed at young adults, the USPs should reflect contemporary themes or relatable characters that resonate with that demographic. This strategic alignment ensures that the treatment not only highlights what makes the story unique but also appeals directly to those most likely to engage with it.
• Evaluate how unique selling points can evolve during the screenwriting process and their impact on revisions of treatments and synopses.
  • As a screenplay develops, unique selling points may shift based on character development, plot progression, or feedback from peers. Evaluating these changes is essential because it allows writers to refine their treatments and synopses for clarity and impact. By reassessing USPs throughout revisions, writers can ensure they consistently present the most compelling aspects of their story, increasing its marketability and aligning with industry expectations.

Related terms

Logline: A concise, one-sentence summary of a screenplay that captures its essence and hooks the audience's interest.

Target Audience: The specific group of people that a screenplay is aimed at, often defined by demographics such as age, gender, and interests.

Genre: A category that defines the style and content of a screenplay, such as drama, comedy, horror, or action.