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Scripting, hooks and storytelling

@brock11johnson

Visual gimmicks (props, outfit changes, shouting) are not hooks; a true hook is a promise, a question you will answer, a topic you will cover or a problem you will solve. The reel also doubles as a comment-keyword lead magnet ("HOOK" for 25 viral hook ideas).

130k plays · 01 Oct 2026

What they said

  1. Opens by repeating "this is not a hook" while doing visual gimmicks (spatula held up, pointing at himself/pet parrot on shoulder in first frame, ripping off his shirt, loud shout).
  2. "All of these things are gimmicks. They're cheap tricks to grab people's attention, but they're not actually going to hook someone in to watch the rest of your video."
  3. True hooks are: a promise; a question you are going to answer; a topic you are going to cover; a problem you are going to solve.
  4. Offer: "if you need 25 viral hook ideas, comment the word HOOK on this reel and I'll send you the list for free."

Try this

  • Creators and agencies: Check your hook against four types: a promise, a question you will answer, a topic you will cover, or a problem you will solve. Props, shouting and outfit changes are gimmicks.
  • Creators: Keep a list of 25 hooks per account or client, and write each reel's first line from it.
  • Brands: Write hooks as promises, such as "how to layer a necklace in 3 steps" or "why your gut feels bloated after lunch". Choose a real question your customers ask.
  • Agencies: Use the same comment-keyword offer as a lead magnet. Offer a free list of 25 hook ideas for a keyword comment.
  • Note: The creator's own gimmick opening got attention, but the video promises a real answer. A good approach is a visual interrupt plus a clear promise within three seconds.

Links

  • Lead magnet: list of 25 viral hook ideas (delivered by DM via comment automation). No link shown. Caption: Want REAL REEL hooks? Comment "HOOK"!

Watch the original

Watch the full reel on Instagram by @brock11johnson. Follow them for more.

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