How to Write a Logline That Sells

In the world of filmmaking, a movie logline plays a crucial role in captivating the attention of potential investors, producers, and audiences. It serves as a concise and compelling summary of a film’s premise, highlighting its unique selling points and generating interest. Here are the essential elements and techniques to craft an incredible movie logline that not only grabs attention but also sells.

Understand the Purpose of a Logline:
A logline is a one to two-sentence summary of a film that conveys the basic elements of the story, such as the protagonist, the primary conflict, and the goal. It should intrigue and entice the reader, leaving them eager to learn more.

Identify the Core Elements:
A powerful logline should include three key elements: the protagonist, their goal, and the primary conflict. These elements provide a clear snapshot of the story and its central tension, making it easier to generate interest.

Focus on the Unique Selling Points:
Highlighting what sets your story apart from others is crucial. Identify the unique aspects, such as the genre, theme, or intriguing plot twists, and incorporate them into your logline. This will help it stand out from the competition and generate interest.

Use Active Language:
Make your logline engaging and dynamic by using active language. Instead of passive statements, focus on capturing the essence of your story through vivid and action-oriented words.

Keep it Concise:
A logline should be concise and to the point. Aim for a maximum of two sentences, ensuring that it conveys the essential elements of your story without becoming overly complicated.

Showcase Conflict and Stakes:
Loglines that emphasize the central conflict and the stakes involved tend to be more compelling. Highlight the obstacles your protagonist faces and the consequences of their success or failure.

Test and Refine:
Once you have crafted a logline, share it with others and seek feedback. Pay attention to the reactions and suggestions you receive, and use them to refine and improve your logline.

In the competitive world of filmmaking, a well-crafted logline is a powerful tool to capture attention, generate interest, and ultimately sell your movie. By understanding the purpose of a logline, focusing on the core elements, and highlighting unique selling points, you can create an incredible logline that captivates and entices. Remember to use active language, keep it concise, and emphasize the central conflict and stakes. With practice and refinement, you can master the art of writing a logline that sells your movie effectively.