In the world of screenwriting, your logline is your elevator pitch—it’s the single sentence that captures the essence of your story and grabs the attention of agents, producers, and executives. A killer logline can make the difference between your script being read or ignored.
In this article, we’ll break down the elements of a great logline and show you how to craft one that gets your screenplay noticed.
1. What Is a Logline?
A logline is a one- or two-sentence summary of your script that highlights the protagonist, their goal, and the stakes. It’s concise, intriguing, and instantly conveys the core of your story.
Examples of Great Loglines:
- Jaws: “A police chief must protect a beach town from a killer shark during peak tourist season.”
- The Matrix: “A hacker discovers the reality he lives in is a simulation and must join a rebellion to free humanity.”
- The Hangover: “Three friends must retrace their steps after a wild bachelor party in Las Vegas to find their missing groom.”
2. The Key Elements of a Killer Logline
To craft a logline that stands out, make sure it includes these essential components:
1. The Protagonist
Who is your story about? Include enough detail to make them interesting without overwhelming the sentence.
Example: A burned-out detective… (Seven)
2. The Goal
What does your protagonist want to achieve? The goal drives the plot and gives your logline focus.
Example: …must uncover a serial killer’s identity… (Seven)
3. The Stakes
What happens if the protagonist succeeds or fails? The stakes create tension and urgency.
Example: …before the killer’s final, devastating act. (Seven)
4. The Hook
What makes your story unique? The hook sets your logline apart and sparks curiosity.
Example: …in a world where a serial killer uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his crimes. (Seven)
3. How to Craft Your Logline
Step 1: Start With “What If?”
Many great loglines begin with a “what if” question that captures the core conflict of your story.
Examples:
- What if humans brought dinosaurs back to life—and lost control? (Jurassic Park)
- What if a man relived the same day over and over until he got it right? (Groundhog Day)
Step 2: Focus on Action
Use active language that conveys urgency and momentum. Avoid passive descriptions.
Example:
❌ A young woman learns about a hidden rebellion.
✅ A young woman joins a rebellion to overthrow a tyrannical government. (The Hunger Games)
Step 3: Keep It Short
Aim for one to two sentences, with a maximum of 50 words. Brevity forces you to focus on the core of your story.
Pro Tip: If your logline is too long, identify what’s most essential and cut the rest.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Too Much Detail
Including too many characters, subplots, or backstory makes your logline confusing and hard to follow.
Fix It: Focus on the protagonist and their main conflict.
2. Being Vague
A logline that’s too generic won’t grab attention.
Example:
❌ A hero must save the world from destruction.
✅ A reluctant archaeologist races to stop Nazis from obtaining a powerful artifact that could help them conquer the world. (Raiders of the Lost Ark)
3. Forgetting the Stakes
If there’s nothing at risk, your story will feel flat.
Fix It: Clearly define what’s at stake for your protagonist and why it matters.
5. Testing Your Logline
Before you share your logline with industry professionals, test it with trusted peers or writing groups. Ask for honest feedback on whether it’s clear, compelling, and memorable.
Pro Tip: Share your logline in online communities like Reddit’s r/Screenwriting or Stage 32 for constructive criticism.
6. FAQs About Loglines
How is a logline different from a tagline?
- Logline: Summarizes the story (used to pitch the script).
- Tagline: A marketing slogan for the finished movie (e.g., “In space, no one can hear you scream” for Alien).
Do I need a logline for every script?
Yes. A strong logline is essential for pitching your script and capturing attention in competitions or queries.
What if my logline doesn’t fit in one sentence?
Rework it. Focus on the core conflict and eliminate unnecessary details.
7. Resources to Help You Craft Loglines
- The Black List Logline Generator: A tool to refine your logline.
- The Script Lab: Articles and examples of effective loglines.
- Save the Cat!: A guide to structuring your story and logline.
Final Thoughts: Your Logline Is Your First Impression
Your logline is often the first thing industry professionals see, so make it count. By crafting a concise, compelling sentence that highlights your protagonist, goal, stakes, and hook, you’ll set your script apart from the competition.
Remember, a great logline doesn’t just summarize your story—it makes people want to read it. With these tips and examples, you’re ready to create a killer logline that grabs attention and gets your screenplay noticed.
