Unique selling points

Definition

Unique selling points (USPs) are the distinct features or benefits of a screenplay that make it stand out from others. In screenwriting, identifying USPs is crucial for attracting attention from producers, agents, and audiences, as they highlight what makes a story compelling and marketable. These points can include original concepts, relatable characters, or innovative storytelling techniques that resonate with viewers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. USPs are essential for making a screenplay memorable and can significantly affect its chances of being produced.
2. Highlighting USPs in pitch meetings can capture the interest of industry professionals and differentiate a writer's work from the competition.
3. Effective USPs often stem from a combination of character development, plot originality, and emotional engagement.
4. Screenwriters should identify their USPs early in the writing process to ensure they align with the overall narrative and themes.
5. USPs can evolve as the screenplay develops; feedback from peers or industry professionals may help refine these selling points.

Review Questions

• How can identifying unique selling points enhance the pitching process for screenwriters?
  • Identifying unique selling points helps screenwriters create a compelling pitch that grabs the attention of producers and agents. By clearly articulating what makes their screenplay stand out, writers can emphasize its originality and marketability. This focus on USPs not only showcases the strengths of the story but also helps to communicate its potential appeal to specific audiences.
• In what ways do unique selling points influence the target audience's perception of a screenplay?
  • Unique selling points significantly shape how a target audience perceives a screenplay by highlighting its distinctive features that resonate with viewers. When USPs are effectively communicated, they can attract an audience's interest by connecting to their preferences or addressing unmet needs in the market. This connection between USPs and audience expectations ultimately plays a key role in driving engagement and encouraging viewership.
• Evaluate the relationship between unique selling points and marketability in the context of screenwriting.
  • The relationship between unique selling points and marketability is crucial in screenwriting because USPs directly influence a screenplay's appeal to producers and audiences alike. A strong USP enhances marketability by showcasing elements that differentiate a story in a crowded marketplace. Writers who effectively leverage their USPs can increase their chances of success in getting their scripts produced, as these points often align with current industry trends and audience desires.

Related terms

Logline:

A concise summary of a screenplay that conveys its premise, main conflict, and unique elements in one or two sentences.

Target Audience: The specific group of people that a screenplay is intended for, which influences its themes, style, and marketing strategies.

Marketability: The potential of a screenplay to be sold and successfully produced, often determined by its originality, appeal, and relevance to current trends.