High concept

Definition

High concept refers to a storytelling approach that encapsulates a film or television show’s premise in a clear, catchy, and easily marketable idea. It usually involves a unique and compelling hook that can be expressed succinctly, often in one sentence, making it appealing for both audiences and producers. This approach emphasizes high stakes, universal themes, and often an intriguing twist or character situation that can attract attention and drive marketing efforts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. High concept projects often revolve around a simple premise that can be easily communicated to audiences, making them more attractive to studios looking for marketable content.
2. These projects frequently blend genres or subvert traditional tropes, presenting familiar scenarios in fresh ways that capture attention.
3. Films that exemplify high concept include 'Jurassic Park,' which revolves around dinosaurs in a theme park, and 'Groundhog Day,' which features a man reliving the same day repeatedly.
4. High concept is not just about the idea itself but also about how it can lead to engaging narratives and character arcs that resonate with viewers.
5. The success of high concept stories often hinges on their ability to generate buzz and discussion, leading to wider audience reach and potential box office success.

Review Questions

• How does the definition of high concept help identify successful projects in film and television?
  • High concept helps identify successful projects by focusing on the clarity and marketability of the premise. A strong high concept presents an idea that is easily understood and intriguing enough to generate immediate interest from audiences and producers alike. This clear communication enables potential viewers to grasp what makes the story unique, which can lead to greater anticipation and ultimately higher engagement with the project.
• What role does genre play in shaping a high concept narrative, and how can blending genres enhance this concept?
  • Genre plays a crucial role in shaping high concept narratives by providing familiar frameworks that audiences recognize. By blending genres, creators can enhance high concepts by introducing unexpected elements that captivate viewers. For example, combining action with comedy can create unique situations that stand out from traditional films, making them more memorable and appealing due to their originality and freshness.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of high concept in storytelling by analyzing its impact on audience engagement and marketing strategies.
  • High concept storytelling proves effective in engaging audiences due to its ability to present simple yet compelling premises that resonate universally. This clarity not only makes it easier for viewers to connect with the story but also aids marketers in promoting the project effectively. The succinct nature of high concept allows for catchy taglines and strong visual branding, which can lead to successful marketing campaigns that draw larger audiences into theaters or streaming platforms.

Related terms

Logline:

A logline is a brief summary of a film or television show that captures its essential plot and hook, usually in one or two sentences.

Pitch: A pitch is a presentation where creators share their ideas for a film or television project, often focusing on its high concept to attract interest from producers or investors.

Genre: Genre refers to the category of storytelling characterized by similarities in narrative elements, style, and themes, which can influence the development of high concept ideas.