High concept

Definition

High concept refers to a clear and easily communicable idea for a film or story that can be summed up in a single sentence. It often emphasizes a unique premise, strong visual elements, and broad market appeal, making it easily marketable and understandable. High concept ideas are particularly valuable in pitching, as they capture the essence of the story while attracting interest quickly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. High concept ideas are often built around universal themes that resonate with large audiences, making them appealing for commercial success.
2. A successful high concept project typically includes a strong visual hook that can be easily conveyed through marketing materials.
3. High concept films often rely on high stakes and dramatic conflicts to engage viewers quickly and maintain interest throughout the story.
4. This concept allows for straightforward loglines and synopses that can be quickly understood by potential buyers and audience members.
5. High concept is not limited to genre; it can exist in any storytelling medium as long as the core idea is compelling and marketable.

Review Questions

• How does a high concept idea enhance the effectiveness of a logline when presenting a film?
  • A high concept idea enhances the effectiveness of a logline by providing a clear and captivating premise that can be easily summarized. This clarity allows potential buyers or audience members to quickly grasp the essence of the story, making them more likely to be interested. A well-crafted logline based on a high concept also highlights unique elements and high stakes, further increasing its appeal.
• In what ways do verbal pitching techniques benefit from high concept ideas when trying to attract interest from producers?
  • Verbal pitching techniques greatly benefit from high concept ideas because they allow for concise and impactful presentations. When a pitch is centered around a high concept, it captures attention immediately and creates excitement about the project. Producers are often looking for projects that stand out in a crowded market, and a high concept pitch helps achieve this by emphasizing its unique premise and broad appeal.
• Evaluate how the elements of high concept influence audience expectations and engagement with a film's narrative structure.
  • The elements of high concept significantly influence audience expectations by establishing a clear premise that outlines what viewers can anticipate from the narrative. This clarity helps set specific expectations regarding tone, pacing, and stakes. Audiences are more likely to engage deeply with a story that promises an exciting or unique experience based on its high concept premise. As a result, if the film meets or exceeds these expectations through its narrative structure, it can lead to greater viewer satisfaction and word-of-mouth promotion.

Related terms

Logline:

A concise summary of a film or story that outlines the main conflict, characters, and stakes, usually presented in one or two sentences.

Pitch:

A brief presentation of an idea for a film or show, designed to entice producers, investors, or studios to support its development.

Elevator Pitch: A short, persuasive speech that describes an idea for a project in a way that can be delivered in the time it takes to ride an elevator, typically around 30 seconds.