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
- 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).
- "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."
- 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.
- 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.
Video, voice and ideas belong to @brock11johnson. Shown here as a short preview with our own summary, for commentary and education. Want it removed? Tell us.
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