Loglines

What is a Logline?

The logline is what sells the script. If you do not have a good logline, then the script probably will not get sold. The Definition of a logline is a one or two sentence description of a film, that is used to sell a screenplay. The best way to think about a logline is to think about the description of the film you see whenever you look up a film on Google, or whatever streaming service you may use.

The Purpose of a Logline

The simple answer is the one or two sentence pitch for your film. You have thought about your idea. You have come up with the basic idea for what you want this film to be about. What is the next step? The logline.

This is how you get the script sold. You want the logline to capture the attention of the buyer to the point where they say, "This is a script I want to see." This is what makes you stand out in the sea of pitches they might see in a day.

The logline usually includes the main character, a brief description, and the conflict they are going to face with in the film. The trick is to make this stand out, but accurately describe the film. Have you ever watched a film and thought to yourself, "This isn't what I thought this film was going to be about," That is because the studio did not give an accurate description of the film.

Making the Logline

There is no room in the logline for extra words. The point of the film has to be described quick and easy but giving it an edge that way it will stand out to buyers. According to Blake Snyder's Save the Cat, he gives the basic template on how to start a logline. His template is, to write about a hero, what he wants, the stakes. He has a lot to say about screen writing and it is a very helpful book to use if you ever get stuck.

So, take the idea that you have and ask who is the hero? Try to describe this character in one to two words. Then, write what this character wants. This should be short and simple but strike an interest in the viewer. Then what is the stakes in this movie. This is what needs to stand out the most. This is where the character faces his biggest fear or fights the stronger villain. This has to sound like it has never been done before and get them wanting to see this movie.

If the logline is not interesting, then the script probably won't sell. The logline is one of the most beneficial parts in selling a script and can be the reason yours is bought, or the reason your is sitting at home in a drawer.