How to Always Write High Concept

Do you struggle to write commercial screenplays?

You’re not alone.

At Script Quack, it’s a problem we see with client’s scripts time and time again.

The writing is strong, but the concept is weak. The idea lacks a hook. 

Because of that, the script won’t get read, and all that hard work will be for nothing.

But what if there was a way to unlock a well of untapped high concept ideas that haven’t ever been used before? 

There is. Keep Reading.

Why Does High Concept Matter Anyways?

Before we get into how exactly you can start generating high concept ideas that Hollywood will love, let me get into what exactly ‘high concept’ is to start with.

It’s a term that’s notoriously hard to define. But really, a high concept movie is one with a powerful, unique controlling idea that has obvious potential.

High concept movies are not merely those that can be pitched in one or two sentences.

High concept movies are the ones with an idea so powerful that it immediately captures the imagination of the intended audience.

Still having trouble grasping the basics of high concept? Take a look at the following pitches:

• A normal guy inherits all the power and responsibilities of God Almighty. 
• A loud mouth loses his ability to talk and must communicate only through actions.
• An overworked businessman purchases a remote that can stop and start time at his command.
  

Each of these ideas are rooted in an extremely important plot device. The same is true for almost all high concept movies.

The ideas are powerful because of a plot device, a magic element, something we haven’t seen before.

Scripts or ideas like this sell on the power of their unique hooks.

While these movies are ultimately very character based, the characters are secondary to the idea as a whole.

Now, how can you tap into the idea generator that has fueled dozens of Hollywood hits? 

Scroll down for the answer.

How "The Idiom Test" Will Help You See Movie Ideas In a Whole New Way

All the movies listed above are rooted in a simple idiom.

“Stop and smell the roses.” - Click

“Be careful what you wish for.” - Bruce Almighty

“Yes-Man.” - Yes Man

“A picture is worth a thousand words.” -  A Thousand Words

Say what you will about the quality of these movies: They Got Made.

While these writers may not have deliberately mined idioms for their concepts, each idea is rooted in a famous expression or phrase.

The ideas resonate for the same reasons that the idioms resonate: They reflect the human experience and therefore they’re rife for exploration.

And there’s no reason you can’t take the same approach when it comes to your own movie ideas.

Particularly for comedies, “The Idiom Test” can prove extremely useful as a guide when you’re searching for a commercial idea.


But the backbone of this idea can be applied to every possible genre. High concept screenplays have universal appeal. That's the secret sauce.


Starting at idioms, research every every famous thought, expression, saying. Every moral, lesson, or bible verse. 


If the expression has thoroughly permeated the zeitgeist, you could have an extremely relatable concept on your hands. 

Here's What You Can Do:

Before you write your next script, make a list of all your favorite idioms. 

Narrow that list down. Choose your absolute favorite.


Here are some possibilities:

• Nice guys finish last. 
  
• A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. 
• The best of both worlds.
• Don't bite the hand that feeds you.

Use the selected idiom as a jumping off point for your brainstorming. 

Get the obvious ideas out of the way first. You’ll probably need to get a little deeper into your idiom before you really find out all it has to offer.

Twist. Turn. Manipulate your idea, and don’t be afraid to get creative.

Explore all possible iterations for your chosen idiom, and you’ll soon uncover a high concept movie idea worth pursuing.

As you move ahead, remember: Execution is everything. Even the best movie idea can be ruined by improper execution. 

Do the idea justice. Outline and plan meticulously before you begin writing. 

Let's Brainstorm Together

Now that you've read this article, comment with your favorite idiom. 

In the comments, we can all brainstorm together.

So comment now!

Struggling with Your Script?

Script Quack offers professional script analysis at affordable prices. Our screenplay strategists are experienced, professional screenwriters. You’ve spent hundreds of hours on your screenplay. With our help, you can turn that script into a movie people want to make.

Click here for more information on our exclusive screenplay services.