Call#: Van Pelt Library PN1995.9.M29 W9 1994
The author Justin Wyatt defines “high-concept” film as one“comprising 'the look, the hook, and the book.' The look of the images, the marketing hooks, and the reduced narratives form the cornerstones of high concept" (22). He waqnts to draw critical attention to the popular films as much as people give to the more “serious” films. He argues that through understanding the economic determinants of the popular films, one can truly appreciate the contemporary landscape of American film. Therefore, he continues to argue, consideration of economic reality should be incorporated in appreciating the high concept films.
Then he tries make distinction between the “high concept” film ( Grease as an example) and “low concept” film ( All That Jazz as an example). Which aspects of Grease make it a “high concept” movie?
Wyatt cites the cast of the famous stars such as John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John to attract young audiences and stars of the 50s such as Eve Arden as the principal “to attract older audiences seeking the film’s nostalgia.” Then, he mentions about the sound track of the movie which succeeded in commercializing. Finally, he argues that the logo of the film “ a small car containing the word “Grease” written in fluid, grease-like style” was also a great marketing strategy. Therefore, he says Grease posseses the high-concept qualities while All That Jazz , a less commercially successful movie, is a “low concept movie.”
tagged film_history by chosk ...and 1 other person ...on 07-APR-06
tagged films high_concept hollywood marketing movies by jzatz ...and 1 other person ...on 11-DEC-05


