We understand how challenging it can be to create a very effective logline for that great script you have. In fact, the majority of screenwriters find it easier to write a full screenplay than it is to construct a great logline.
Think about it this way, if your logline is poor, chances of getting a read will be incredibly difficult. It doesn't matter how wonderful your screenplay is. A producer, manager or agent will pass on your material if your logline isn't enticing.
The main objective of a logline is to convince people to agree that your script is intriguing. You want them to agree with you! If you believe your script is interesting and worthy of being made into a movie, then naturally, you want other people to agree with you.
Your logline is your sales person. It's up to you to make the logline something memorable and catchy. Do not tell everything in a logline. What you want to do is hit the core plot of what the movie is about.
Below is a great example of a logline in the drama genre. Pay close attention of how it is constructed.
West Side Story (based on Romeo and Juliet)
Two young lovers associated with rival gangs in the slums of New York try to escape the bigotry and violence that surrounds them to find a better life.
We know who the protagonist is (the two young lovers). We know who the antagonist is (the bigotry and violence). We know what they must do (escape their rough surroundings to find a better life).
This logline expresses that this movie will touch emotions. That is what you want your drama screenplay logline to YELL out to people. A good drama is emotional, and people watch dramas to have their emotions raised.
