Before your screenplay dazzles an audience, it has to pass its first, most critical test: the logline. Think of it as your story’s resume. If it doesn’t shine, your screenplay may never get a second look.
A logline isn’t just a summary—it’s the beating heart of your screenplay, boiled down to its essence. It’s the answer to every producer’s favorite question: “What’s this story about?” And it’s your chance to hook someone with one or two razor-sharp sentences. Nail it, and you’ve got their attention. Fumble it, and your story may stay stuck in development limbo.
But here’s the thing: writing a killer logline takes skill. Too often, screenwriters dive into scripting without truly testing their idea. If you can’t clearly and confidently summarize your story, it’s likely you haven’t fully developed it yet. That’s why crafting a strong logline isn’t just important—it’s essential.
Ready to master the art of the logline? Here are five nuanced, well-researched tips to ensure your logline stands out:
5 Tips for Writing a Masterful Logline
- Start with the “Who” (Your Protagonist)
A great logline begins with a compelling protagonist. Not just a generic “a man” or “a woman”—give us a vivid sense of who they are and what makes them stand out. Are they an overworked paramedic, a reclusive artist, or a rebellious teenager? Show us their essence in a way that makes us instantly intrigued.Pro Tip: Use descriptive details that hint at your character’s personality or situation without overloading the sentence.Example: “A reclusive artist with a haunted past…” - Clarify Their Goal (What Do They Want?)
Every great story is driven by a protagonist’s goal. What are they trying to achieve, and why is it urgent? This goal is the backbone of your screenplay, so it needs to be clear and relatable in your logline.Pro Tip: Be specific and avoid vague ambitions. “Save the world” is generic. “Save her estranged brother from a corrupt tech mogul” is memorable.Example: “…must uncover the truth behind her brother’s disappearance…” - Highlight the Stakes (What’s at Risk?)
Stakes are what give your story urgency and weight. If your protagonist fails, what will they lose? Their life, their family, their dream? The stakes should make the audience care deeply about the outcome.Pro Tip: Stakes don’t always have to be life-or-death. Emotional stakes—like losing a chance at love or redemption—can be just as powerful.Example: “…or risk being framed for the crime herself.” - Showcase the Hook (Your Unique Twist)
This is where your logline shines. What sets your story apart from the thousands of others out there? Is it the premise, the setting, or an unexpected twist? The hook is what makes your logline unforgettable.Pro Tip: Make your hook feel fresh but grounded. Avoid gimmicks and focus on the elements that truly make your story unique.Example: “But when she discovers the killer is an AI programmed to protect her, she must decide who to trust.” - Keep It Precise (One to Two Sentences Max)
Brevity is the soul of a great logline. If you can’t sum up your story in two sentences, you’re probably overthinking it. Stick to the essentials: protagonist, goal, stakes, and hook. Every word should pull its weight.Pro Tip: Read your logline out loud. If it sounds clunky or confusing, refine it until it flows effortlessly.Example (Full Logline):
“A reclusive artist with a haunted past must uncover the truth behind her brother’s disappearance, but when she discovers the killer is an AI programmed to protect her, she must decide who to trust before she becomes the next target.”
The Bottom Line
Mastering the logline is about more than just crafting a summary—it’s about understanding the core of your story. A strong logline forces you to clarify your narrative’s stakes, structure, and unique appeal. It’s the litmus test that separates an intriguing idea from a fully realized screenplay.
So, take the time to refine your logline until it’s sharp, clear, and captivating. Not only will it guide your writing, but it will also open doors to producers, directors, and anyone who hears your pitch. If your logline passes this first test, your screenplay is already on the right track.
