Concussion
A dramatic thriller based on the incredible true David vs. Goliath story of American immigrant Dr. Bennet Omalu, the brilliant forensic neuropathologist who made the first discovery of CTE, a football-related brain trauma, in a pro player and fought for the truth to be known. Omalu's emotional quest puts him at dangerous odds with one of the most powerful institutions in the world.
Working with a mid-range budget of $35.0M, the film achieved a steady performer with $50.4M in global revenue (+44% profit margin).
Plot Structure
Story beats plotted across runtime
Narrative Arc
Emotional journey through the story's key moments
Story Circle
Blueprint 15-beat structure
Arcplot Score Breakdown
Weighted: Precision (70%) + Arc (15%) + Theme (15%)
Concussion (2015) demonstrates precise narrative architecture, characteristic of Peter Landesman's storytelling approach. This structural analysis examines how the film's 11-point plot structure maps to proven narrative frameworks across 2 hours and 3 minutes. With an Arcplot score of 6.8, the film balances conventional beats with creative variation.
Structural Analysis
The Status Quo at 2 minutes (1% through the runtime) establishes Dr. Bennet Omalu works meticulously in the Pittsburgh morgue, showing his dedication to giving dignity to the dead. He is an accomplished, respected forensic pathologist living the American dream as an immigrant from Nigeria.. The analysis reveals that this early placement immediately immerses viewers in the story world.
The inciting incident occurs at 15 minutes when The body of Mike Webster, legendary Pittsburgh Steelers center, arrives at the morgue. Webster died young after years of erratic, self-destructive behavior. Bennet is troubled by the disconnect between Webster's outward brain appearance and his mental deterioration.. At 12% through the film, this Disruption aligns precisely with traditional story structure. This beat shifts the emotional landscape, launching the protagonist into the central conflict.
At 61 minutes, the Midpoint arrives at 50% of the runtime—precisely centered, creating perfect narrative symmetry. Structural examination shows that this crucial beat The NFL publicly attacks Bennet's research and credibility at a major conference, demanding he retract his findings. What seemed like a scientific mission becomes a dangerous fight against a powerful institution. The stakes become clear: this is about more than medicine., fundamentally raising what's at risk. The emotional intensity shifts, dividing the narrative into clear before-and-after phases.
The Collapse moment at 91 minutes (74% through) represents the emotional nadir. Here, Dr. Wecht is indicted on federal charges (widely seen as retaliation), forcing him to step down. Bennet is told he must leave Pittsburgh and his job. His mentor is destroyed, his career is threatened, and he faces the possibility that his sacrifice was for nothing., reveals the protagonist at their lowest point. This beat's placement in the final quarter sets up the climactic reversal.
The Synthesis at 98 minutes initiates the final act resolution at 79% of the runtime. Bennet moves his family to California and continues his work. He testifies, gives interviews, and refuses to be silenced. The NFL eventually acknowledges CTE (though without crediting him). Players' stories are told. The truth slowly gains acceptance despite institutional resistance., demonstrating the transformation achieved throughout the journey.
Emotional Journey
Concussion's emotional architecture traces a deliberate progression across 11 carefully calibrated beats.
Narrative Framework
This structural analysis employs systematic plot point analysis that identifies crucial turning points. By mapping Concussion against these established plot points, we can identify how Peter Landesman utilizes or subverts traditional narrative conventions. The plot point approach reveals not only adherence to structural principles but also creative choices that distinguish Concussion within the drama genre.
Comparative Analysis
Additional drama films include Eye for an Eye, South Pacific and Kiss of the Spider Woman.
Plot Points by Act
Act I
SetupStatus Quo
Dr. Bennet Omalu works meticulously in the Pittsburgh morgue, showing his dedication to giving dignity to the dead. He is an accomplished, respected forensic pathologist living the American dream as an immigrant from Nigeria.
Theme
Dr. Cyril Wecht tells Bennet, "In America, you must have the courage to stand up for what you know is right." This statement foreshadows Bennet's coming battle against institutional power.
Worldbuilding
Introduction to Bennet's world: his work at the coroner's office, his relationship with mentor Dr. Wecht, his Nigerian immigrant community, his Catholic faith, and his pursuit of a wife. We see his methodical nature and respect for both the living and dead.
Disruption
The body of Mike Webster, legendary Pittsburgh Steelers center, arrives at the morgue. Webster died young after years of erratic, self-destructive behavior. Bennet is troubled by the disconnect between Webster's outward brain appearance and his mental deterioration.
Resistance
Bennet conducts an unauthorized, expensive examination of Webster's brain, spending his own money. Despite pressure to close the case, he persists. He begins developing a relationship with Prema, a Nigerian immigrant. His investigation reveals tau protein buildup, leading to his discovery of CTE.
Act II
ConfrontationPremise
Bennet examines more deceased NFL players (Terry Long, Andre Waters), building his case. He presents findings to NFL doctors and neurologists. The NFL begins its campaign to discredit him. Bennet becomes a crusader, driven by his dedication to truth and the players who suffered.
Midpoint
The NFL publicly attacks Bennet's research and credibility at a major conference, demanding he retract his findings. What seemed like a scientific mission becomes a dangerous fight against a powerful institution. The stakes become clear: this is about more than medicine.
Opposition
The NFL intensifies pressure through multiple channels: attempting to destroy Bennet's career, attacking Dr. Wecht legally, and pressuring medical institutions. Bennet faces FBI intimidation. His marriage strains under the stress. Former players continue to die. The opposition closes in from all sides.
Collapse
Dr. Wecht is indicted on federal charges (widely seen as retaliation), forcing him to step down. Bennet is told he must leave Pittsburgh and his job. His mentor is destroyed, his career is threatened, and he faces the possibility that his sacrifice was for nothing.
Crisis
Bennet struggles with the cost of his fight: his career in ruins, his mentor prosecuted, his pregnant wife stressed and afraid. He questions whether speaking truth was worth the personal destruction. Dark night of doubt and despair.
Act III
ResolutionSynthesis
Bennet moves his family to California and continues his work. He testifies, gives interviews, and refuses to be silenced. The NFL eventually acknowledges CTE (though without crediting him). Players' stories are told. The truth slowly gains acceptance despite institutional resistance.