Entertainment
Loglines Explained: The Ultimate Movie Pitch
Discover what a logline is and why this one-sentence summary is the most crucial tool for screenwriters pitching their movie or TV show idea.
What is it?
A logline is a one-sentence summary that encapsulates the essential elements of a movie's story. It's the ultimate elevator pitch for a screenplay, designed to hook a producer or executive's interest in just a few seconds. A compelling logline typically establishes the protagonist, their goal, the central conflict, and the primary antagonist or obstacle they must overcome. For example, the logline for Jaws could be: "When a great white shark terrorizes a New England beach town, a local sheriff, a marine biologist, and an old seafarer must hunt the beast down before it kills again."
Why is it trending?
The concept of a logline is a perennial topic in filmmaking, but its visibility has surged with the democratization of content creation. Aspiring writers use social media platforms and online forums to workshop and share their loglines, seeking feedback from a global community. This online culture has made the term more mainstream. Furthermore, as streaming services create an endless demand for new content, the ability to pitch a story quickly and effectively has become more critical than ever, putting a renewed emphasis on the art of the perfect logline.
How does it affect people?
For screenwriters, a powerful logline is the single most important marketing tool they have. It's the gatekeeper that determines whether their full script gets read or passed over. It forces writers to distill their story to its core, ensuring the concept is clear and compelling. For moviegoers, understanding loglines provides a new lens through which to view film marketing. It helps audiences quickly identify a movie's core premise and decide if it aligns with their interests, essentially acting as the story's first and most concise trailer.