Some writers even do this exercise BEFORE they ever type FADE IN. There's a simple logline formula that many writers use to take their initial idea and plug it into something that quickly summarizes their script. Lucky for you, there's a tried and true logline formula! Logline Formula Descriptions and example loglines (from a bloggers with movies you know). They tell us the psychological tension of the main characters. Write a logline for the 3-5 page screenplay you completed for class on Monday.

After you are done writing, a strong logline can help you get your screenplay read or sold.Ī reader will often decide after reading or hearing the logline whether or not the idea for your screenplay is worth their time. As you can see, loglines are short summaries of a screenplay that focus on the central story arc. During the writing process, a strong logline can help guide you and keep you focused. Wikipedia says the definition of a logline is a 'brief (usually one-sentence) summary of a television program, film, or book that states the central conflict of the story.' Why Do I Need A One-Sentence Summary?Ĭreating a logline is an often tough, but necessary task for writers both pre- and post-production of their screenplays. What are you most interested in Select as many as you like. What would you tell them? This quick, one-sentence summary of your entire story is your logline. Which of these categories are you most interested in Filmmaking (Directing, Cinematography, Editing, & more) Creative (Writing, Special Effects, Art Direction, & more) Performing (Acting, Stunts, Choreography, & more) Business (Producing, Casting, Talent Management, & more) 2. The basic idea, fit in one or two sentences (usually. Imagine you only had ten seconds to tell someone the idea behind your entire script. Logline is a brief summary of the film, conveying the essence of the story, its main dramatic conflict.

Screenplay logline examples