Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a logline?

Yes. You don’t always need to have a perfectly crafted logline, but it never hurts. Strong loglines show the reader (and the writer) whether the idea is creative, fresh, high concept, and worth exploring. We highly recommend writing a logline before you write the script as a test of your idea. Once your script is ready, a logline can be an invaluable tool for pitching your script. Check out these seven ways that you can put a logline to work.

Who will create this logline for me and/or do my logline polish?

All of our logline polishes and logline creations are crafted by Angela Bourassa, founder of LA Screenwriter. Angela is also the head judge of the LA Screenwriter Logline Competition. She has a LOT of experience reading, studying, writing, and editing loglines. Get a sense of what her feedback is like by taking a look at these samples.

Why can’t I enter a logline you polished for me into the LA Screenwriter Logline Competition?

Because that wouldn’t exactly be fair. People who submit to the Logline Competition are given general feedback on their loglines. With these services, we’re telling you exactly what changes we think you should make. This feedback would give you a crazy advantage in the competition.

Why is the form capping my logline at 70 words?

Well, if your logline is more than 70 words, it’s not a logline. Ideally, your logline should be one sentence and it should be about 30-35 words. If it’s a lot more than that, don’t worry about it – that’s why we’re helping you polish it. If it’s 70 words or more, you don’t really have a logline, and you should opt for the Logline Creation service.

What kind of “other information” should I provide?

This is your chance to tell us about the tone, style, theme, and intended audience of your script. You can also explain your reasoning for why you wrote your logline the way you did or give more info about what makes your script idea fresh and commercial.

Do I need to write a formal synopsis for either of these services?

Nope. No need to spend too much time making the synopsis perfect. We’re not judging you on it. Just make sure it’s clear. Your synopsis should include descriptions of your main characters and your central story. You should also include the setting, inciting incident, central goal, stakes, and ticking time bomb (if there is one).

How quickly will you turn around the second round of feedback?

Usually within 24 hours. But it may take up to five business days. If you’ve ordered rush service, you’ll get your second round of feedback within 24 hours. Keep in mind that you only get ten days to request a second round of feedback. So get cracking!

Any basic tips on how to write a logline?

Check out the articles we’ve linked to in the side menu (our Logline Academy) for lots of great logline writing resources. But the most basic logline advice we can give is this: Your logline should be one sentence that describes your main characters and your main plot. That’s it. Don’t go into side stories or themes. Just lay out your main story, and try your best to show what makes your idea fresh, creative, and commercial.

Can I submit a logline for a script idea I haven’t written yet?

Absolutely! In fact, we highly recommend it. By sharing your logline with us early, we can help you make your idea as strong as possible before you start your rough draft.

And just so you know, we’ll never share your logline with anyone without your express permission.

How do I know you won’t steal my screenplay idea?

You’ll just have to have a little faith. Ideas are not copyright-able, and people write similar script ideas all the time in Hollywood. We’ve got our own script ideas — we’re really not interested in taking yours.