Pronunciation: [lˈɒɡla͡ɪn] (IPA) 
The word "logline" is spelled as /ˈlɒɡˌlaɪn/. The first syllable "log" is pronounced as "lɒɡ" with a short "o" sound, like "lot," followed by the "g" sound. The second syllable "line" is pronounced as "laɪn" with a long "i" sound like in "pie." In the film industry, a logline is a brief summary of a script or screenplay, which is usually one or two sentences long, used to pitch to potential producers, agents, or investors.
A logline is a concise and compelling one or two-sentence summary that captures the essence of a story or a script. Typically used in the entertainment industry, particularly in film and television, a logline serves as a brief overview of the main plot, characters, and central conflict of a project. Its purpose is to grab the attention of potential investors, producers, or agents, giving them a glimpse of the story's unique concept and its commercial potential.
A well-crafted logline effectively conveys the genre, theme, and tone of the story, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the world that awaits the audience. It should be concise, precise, and memorable, using powerful and evocative language to paint a vivid picture and generate interest. A logline often includes the protagonist's or main character's goal or desire, the antagonist's or main obstacle's opposition, and the stakes or consequences involved.
The importance of a logline lies in its ability to pitch a story efficiently and effectively, whether in written form or orally. It serves as a crucial tool for filmmakers, screenwriters, and storytellers to showcase the unique and marketable aspects of their project in a brief yet captivating manner, capturing the attention of potential collaborators or investors who may ultimately play a role in bringing the story to life.
The word "logline" originated from the film and television industry. It is a combination of two words: "log" and "line".
1. Log: In the film industry, the term "log" refers to a brief synopsis or summary of a story. It originally comes from the practice of logging or recording information about each scene of a film on a log sheet. This sheet includes details like the scene number, location, characters involved, and a short description. These logs serve as a reference for editing and organizing film footage during post-production. Over time, the term "log" came to be associated with concise summaries or descriptions of a film's plot.
2. Line: In the context of story development, a "line" often refers to a single sentence or a short phrase that captures the essence of a story or its central idea. It can be a powerful and succinct expression of the main concept, hook, or theme.
