It shouldn’t feel like “we’ve heard this before”. In essence, the logline breathes of “there’s more to come” but it still sounds specific and unique. Write a logline that evokes intrigue and specificity : A great logline conjures images and implies that there is “much more here” to be developed. What 5 things should I focus on while writing a logline? For example:Ī rookie detective isn’t going to have the power to navigate the justice system.Ī struggling boxer is going to be pressurized to win in order to stay alive - in the ring and out.Ī failed writer will have to deal with financial insecurity and possible mental health issues.Ī corrupt CEO will have to combat rivals, overcome plots to usurp him, and create more deceptions to stay on top.Ī conniving preschooler will have to use his/her smarts and ruthlessness to overcome peers, adults, and the school system to get what he/she wants. I’m pretty sure you already have an image of each of the above characters, attached with some measure of conflict or personality. Remember: Producers and Execs WANT TO DEVELOP THE SCRIPT with you, so no locked-in names yet.įocus on a + that conjures a quick and clear image in the reader’s mind. (One exception: If the project is based on the true story of a real person).įor most projects, simply write a short descriptive word to elaborate on the protagonist or villain. The other is a memorable, copy-driven slogan. One actually conveys the story, plot, and characters. Tagline: “In space no one can hear you scream.” Logline: Seven space truckers pick up a ruthless alien life form, intent on killing them, while trapped on an isolated space freighter. Or: When a, a wants a he struggles against a that causes Ī logline is a description of your project’s premise to attract them to read your script/sell your project. Do you have some sort of format I can start with? You can’t reach your destination - which is understanding for a logline - without a few necessary ingredients. Remember: Leaving any element out is like asking, “Let’s meet up!” without stating a TIME, PLACE, and LOCATION. As long as these are clearly defined and exciting to read (and hear), you’re on the right track. The rest is up to you as to how to order, tweak, or what specific elements to shine a light on. Obstacle/Villian/Conflict (implies conflict, battles, set-pieces, scenes)ĭeath Stakes (the worse case scenario, the inner and outer stakes, what is in jeopardy, the “dreaded outcome” if the protagonist fails) Protagonist (with a dash of description, implies an actor/actress) But a KILLER logline does require a few core elements: There is no fool-proof way to write a logline - it can actually be anything. That’s good - it’s the kind of storyteller, people WANT to work with. You get what executives want to buy and want to HELP THEM ACHIEVE THEIR OBJECTIVES. This doesn’t happen a lot, but a killer logline is certainly the first step to selling any creative project.Ī killer logline sells YOU as a creative that takes the time and effort to carefully craft your project for OTHER PEOPLE. This refers to the pitching room with producers, executives, or an “elevator pitch” somewhere. What should your logline envoke in a reader or listener?Ĭlarity (“I know what type of project this is and where it sits”)Ī killer logline can entice a reader to request to read your full script.Ī killer logline can entice a reader/producer/agent/executive to want to work with you.Ī killer logline can attract a potential buyer of your project.Ī killer logline can elevate your material - usually through entry requirements in festivals or competitions - and increase your chances that your project can attain coveted prizes.Ī killer logline can, on rare occasions, sell your project “in the room”. This is usually expressed in a call-back or request to read the full script. The objective of a logline is to make it so thrilling and enticing that a listener needs to know more. Loglines are a way of boiling down the essential elements of your idea and conveying it in a clear, exciting, and “I want to hear more!” way. What is a logline?Ī logline is a one or two-sentence summary of your movie, television show, or project. (So, of course, we can tell more stories!). So here’s the ultimate guide to crafting a KILLER logline that works, sells, and makes you money. While there is less of an emphasis on writing the “perfect logline” in today’s media landscape, there’s always a need to transform your idea into a sellable package so you can get your project sold. When it comes to the content game, it’s really that simple. Writing a logline can do one of two things: make you money or not.
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