Hooks
In medias res
An in medias res hook starts the video in the middle of the action, with no intro or setup. The context comes later, once you have the viewer’s attention.
Structure
[Line spoken at the key moment]… OK, let me explain how I got here.
Why it works
A scene that’s already underway raises questions instantly: where are we, what’s happening, how does it end? The viewer lands in a story in motion instead of a presentation, and the urge to understand keeps them watching. Borrowed from storytelling, this technique cuts the dead time at the start of a video. It works when the opening scene genuinely carries tension or emotion.
When to use it
- For a personal story, a vlog or an anecdote.
- When your video has a high point you can move to the start.
- For storytelling formats where the context fits in two sentences.
Pitfalls
- Picking an opening scene with no clear stakes: the viewer is lost, not intrigued.
- Taking too long to get back to the context.
- Staging a fake dramatic moment that has nothing to do with the rest.
Examples by niche
Cooking“The cream just split, and my guests arrive in ten minutes.”
Fitness“Last rep, I’m shaking, and my coach tells me to do one more.”
Tech“Black screen, nothing boots, and my final render is on this drive.”
Fashion“The wedding starts in an hour and my dress just ripped.”
Beauty“I cut my own bangs, and it was a mistake.”
Business“The client just said no in the middle of the meeting. Here’s what I said back.”
Personal finance“I just opened my electricity bill and I don’t understand any of it.”
Lifestyle“It’s 6 a.m., I’m on a rooftop, and I wasn’t supposed to be here.”
Travel“My train just left without me, and it was the last one today.”
Gaming“One HP, three enemies, and I’ve got a single grenade left.”
Education“The exam starts in an hour and I just understood this chapter.”
Parenting“My daughter just emptied the flour jar onto the floor.”
Wellness“I’ve been sitting in my car for twenty minutes, unable to walk into the office.”
Real estate“Keys in hand, and I just found damp behind the wardrobe.”
Music“The mic cuts out mid-chorus, in front of a hundred people.”
Home decor“I tore down the wallpaper, and what I found underneath changes everything.”
FAQ
What does in medias res mean?
It’s Latin for “into the middle of things”. In video, it means starting in the middle of the action rather than with an introduction.
Should I re-enact the scene or film it for real?
Both work, but stay honest: if you recreate a moment, don’t present it as live footage. The story should match what actually happened.
Can I do in medias res without showing my face?
Yes. A voiceover over a shot of hands, a screen or a place is enough, as long as the opening line sets up the tension straight away.