Logline

Definition

A logline is a brief summary of a film or television show that captures the essence of the story, typically in one or two sentences. It highlights the main character, their goal, and the primary conflict they face, serving as a crucial tool for writers to pitch their projects effectively. The logline is essential when crafting spec scripts, treatments, pilot episodes, and story bibles, as it distills the core idea into a concise and engaging format.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Loglines are typically one to two sentences long and should clearly convey the main premise of the story.
2. A well-crafted logline often includes key elements like the protagonist's goal, their obstacles, and the stakes involved.
3. Loglines are used extensively in spec scripts to grab the attention of agents and producers quickly.
4. In treatments, a logline serves as the hook that keeps readers engaged as they delve into a more detailed outline.
5. For pilot episodes and story bibles, loglines help set the tone and direction of the series while also defining its unique selling points.

Review Questions

• How does a logline differ from a synopsis in terms of purpose and content?
  • A logline serves as a concise hook that summarizes the essence of a film or television show in one or two sentences, focusing on the main character's goal and conflict. In contrast, a synopsis provides a more detailed overview of the plot, characters, and themes. While a logline aims to capture attention quickly for pitches or proposals, a synopsis offers deeper insight into the narrative structure and character development.
• Discuss how crafting an effective logline can influence the development of spec scripts and treatments.
  • An effective logline serves as a guiding star for writers when developing spec scripts and treatments. It encapsulates the core idea of the story, helping writers maintain focus on their central theme and character motivations throughout their writing process. A strong logline can also attract interest from agents and producers when pitching these scripts, making it essential for standing out in a competitive industry.
• Evaluate the importance of a logline in establishing thematic elements within pilot episodes and story bibles.
  • The importance of a logline in pilot episodes and story bibles lies in its ability to establish thematic elements that resonate with audiences. By succinctly summarizing the core conflict and character motivations, a logline helps define not just what the show is about but also its emotional undertones and overarching themes. This clarity supports writers in developing consistent narratives while ensuring that all aspects of the series align with its initial premise, making it easier to communicate the show's vision to potential collaborators and networks.

Related terms

Pitch: A pitch is a verbal or written presentation where a writer introduces their project idea, often using the logline to capture interest.

Synopsis: A synopsis is a more detailed summary of a film or television show that provides an overview of the plot, characters, and themes.

Character Arc: A character arc is the transformation or inner journey of a character throughout the story, which can be highlighted in a logline.