What Is a High Concept in Screenwriting?

By Olivia Salter

In the world of screenwriting, there’s a term that often gets thrown around when discussing marketable scripts: "high concept." But what exactly does it mean, and why is it so critical for screenwriters looking to break into Hollywood? Understanding this concept is essential for crafting stories that grab attention, spark interest, and, ultimately, sell. Here’s a deep dive into what high concept is, why it matters, and how to create it in your own screenplay.

Defining High Concept

A high concept is a simple, clear idea for a story that can be easily understood and communicated in just a few sentences—or even a single line. It’s a premise that immediately generates intrigue, evokes a strong emotional response, and often includes a unique or fresh twist. High concept films tend to have mass appeal because they present a big idea in a relatable or visually engaging way.

At its core, a high concept:

Is easy to pitch: It can be summarized in one sentence, also known as a logline, that makes people immediately understand the story's appeal.

• Has Broad Appeal: High concept stories usually have the potential to attract a wide audience because of their universal themes or exciting premise.
• Promises a Unique Experience: Whether through a plot twist, an unusual character, or a fresh setting, it offers something that feels different from what’s already out there.

Examples of High Concept Films

To better understand what qualifies as a high concept, let’s look at a few iconic films:

• Jurassic Park (1993): "What if scientists cloned dinosaurs, and they broke loose in a theme park?" This simple, fascinating premise appeals to a broad audience, blending science fiction with adventure and tapping into the universal fascination with dinosaurs.
• Inception (2010): "A team of thieves enters people’s dreams to steal or plant ideas." This concept grabs attention because it offers a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating journey, packaged in a way that can be easily described.
• Groundhog Day (1993): "A man is forced to relive the same day over and over again." This idea turns a mundane situation into something extraordinary, instantly sparking interest.

Why High Concept Matters

In the competitive world of film, a high concept can be the difference between a script that gets lost in the pile and one that leaps to the top. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Easier to Pitch: Producers, agents, and executives are constantly bombarded with ideas, so a script that can be explained quickly with a compelling hook stands out. A strong high concept gives them confidence that the film will be easy to market.
2. Mass Appeal: High concept stories often tap into universal themes, making them more accessible to larger audiences. Studios are more likely to back projects with broad appeal, knowing that they’ll perform well at the box office.
3. Visual Appeal: These ideas often come with a promise of exciting visuals or innovative story elements, which is critical in today’s market, where eye-catching trailers and promotional material can drive ticket sales.

How to Develop a High Concept

Crafting a high concept screenplay doesn’t mean you have to come up with something overly complicated or outrageous. In fact, simplicity is key. Here are a few tips to help you create your own high concept ideas:

1. Focus on "What if?" Scenarios: Many high concept stories are based on a simple "What if?" question that immediately sparks curiosity. For example, “What if you could live forever but no one else could?” or “What if your dreams were controlled by a corporation?”
2. Add a Unique Twist: Even familiar genres can become high concept if you add an unexpected element. Take a traditional romantic comedy but set it in a futuristic world, or create a thriller where the protagonist has an unusual ability that sets them apart.
3. Think Visually: High concept ideas often come with strong visual components. Imagine your story as a trailer—what are the eye-catching moments that would make audiences want to watch? The more you can offer visually unique or exciting scenes, the more compelling your idea becomes.
4. Keep It Simple: The beauty of a high concept lies in its simplicity. Don’t overcomplicate the premise. A clear, straightforward idea with a fresh twist is often much more effective than a convoluted plot.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While high concept can be a powerful tool, it’s important to avoid a few common mistakes:

• Relying too Much on the Premise: A high concept might get you in the door, but the execution of the story matters just as much. If the characters and narrative don’t live up to the promise of the concept, the script will fall flat.
• Neglecting Depth: High concept doesn’t mean shallow. The best high concept films balance an exciting premise with rich characters, emotional depth, and meaningful themes.
• Forgetting the Emotional Hook: Audiences connect with stories that resonate on an emotional level. Even the most thrilling high concept won’t hold attention if the characters aren’t relatable or the stakes don’t feel real.

Conclusion: High Concept as a Gateway

In today’s entertainment landscape, where studios are looking for the next big hit, a high concept screenplay can be your key to success. It’s about creating a story that’s both unique and universally appealing—something that can be pitched in a sentence but promises a compelling and exciting journey. By focusing on simplicity, visual appeal, and strong "What if?" questions, you can develop high concept ideas that stand out and resonate with both industry professionals and audiences alike.

Remember, high concept is not just a label—it’s a mindset that can help you craft stories with wide appeal and strong commercial potential.