Logline

Definition

A logline is a one to two-sentence summary of a film or screenplay that captures the essence of the story, including the main character, their goal, and the central conflict. It serves as a powerful tool for quickly conveying the concept to industry professionals, making it crucial for script analysis, querying, pitching, navigating the market, and building a portfolio.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Loglines are typically no longer than 30 words and focus on clarity and impact to grab attention quickly.
2. A well-crafted logline highlights the protagonist's main goal and the stakes involved, making it easier for readers to grasp the story's appeal.
3. Loglines are essential for script coverage as they provide an immediate snapshot of the screenplay's potential.
4. In crafting query letters, a strong logline is often the first hook to capture an agent or producer's interest.
5. During pitching sessions, the logline serves as a foundation for expanding upon the story, ensuring a clear and concise presentation.

Review Questions

• How does a logline differ from other forms of screenplay summaries like synopses and treatments?
  • A logline is a concise one to two-sentence summary that captures the core concept of a screenplay, focusing on the main character, their goal, and central conflict. In contrast, a synopsis provides more detail about key plot points and character arcs, while a treatment expands further into scenes and character development. This distinction is important because each serves different purposes in script analysis and marketing, with loglines being particularly effective for quick pitches and initial impressions.
• Discuss how a strong logline can enhance the effectiveness of query letters when seeking representation or production deals.
  • A strong logline can significantly enhance query letters by serving as an engaging hook that immediately captures the reader's attention. By succinctly conveying the essence of the screenplay, it entices agents or producers to read further. When crafted effectively, it not only outlines the story's main conflict but also showcases its unique appeal, which is crucial in a competitive market where many scripts vie for attention.
• Evaluate the role of loglines in navigating the script market and how they contribute to building a successful screenwriting portfolio.
  • Loglines play a pivotal role in navigating the script market as they encapsulate a script's potential in just a few words, making them essential tools for networking and promotion. A well-developed portfolio often features multiple compelling loglines that highlight diverse ideas and genres, showcasing versatility to potential agents or producers. By effectively communicating story hooks through loglines, screenwriters can create lasting impressions that lead to opportunities in a crowded marketplace.

Related terms

Synopsis: A brief summary of a screenplay that provides more detail than a logline, often outlining key plot points and character arcs.

Treatment: A detailed outline of a screenplay that includes scenes and character development, typically longer than a logline but used for similar purposes in pitching.

Pitch: A verbal or written presentation of a screenplay idea, usually expanded from the logline, aimed at attracting interest from producers or agents.