Logline

Definition

A logline is a brief, one to two-sentence summary of a TV show or movie that captures the essence of the story and its main conflict. It serves as a pitch tool to hook potential producers, networks, and audiences, making it crucial for development and networking in the entertainment industry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Loglines are typically around 25 words or less and focus on the protagonist, their goal, and the stakes involved.
2. A strong logline can make a significant difference in capturing the attention of producers or network executives during pitching.
3. Loglines should convey the genre of the project, whether it's comedy, drama, or something else, helping to set expectations.
4. Many writers refine their loglines multiple times, as clarity and conciseness are essential for effective communication.
5. Loglines also play a role in marketing and can be used in promotional materials to attract an audience.

Review Questions

• How does a well-crafted logline influence the pitching process for a new TV show?
  • A well-crafted logline is crucial during the pitching process as it serves as the first impression for potential buyers. It encapsulates the main conflict and draws interest from producers or network executives who may decide whether to hear more about the project. A concise and engaging logline can differentiate a project from many others, increasing its chances of being developed further.
• Discuss the differences between a logline and a synopsis in terms of their purposes in project development.
  • A logline is a brief summary designed to quickly capture interest in a project, focusing on the core elements like character and conflict. In contrast, a synopsis provides a more detailed overview of the entire story, including subplots and character development. While both are important for development, the logline is often used for initial pitches, whereas synopses are more useful for deeper discussions and understanding of the narrative.
• Evaluate how refining a logline can impact the success of a TV show's development and its relationship with networks.
  • Refining a logline can greatly impact the success of a TV show's development by ensuring clarity and focus on its unique selling points. A polished logline not only helps in garnering immediate interest from networks but also reflects the creator's understanding of the story's core elements. This process strengthens relationships with networks by demonstrating professionalism and preparedness, which can lead to better opportunities for collaboration and funding.

Related terms

Pitch: A pitch is a presentation where creators outline their project to potential buyers or investors, often including the logline as a key component.

Synopsis: A synopsis is a longer summary of a story that provides more detail about the plot, characters, and themes than a logline.

Treatment: A treatment is a document that expands on the logline and synopsis, detailing how the story unfolds, character arcs, and key scenes.