The logline originated during the early days of Hollywood when studios stored countless screenplays in vaults. These scripts, often lengthy and detailed, presented a challenge for busy studio executives, producers, directors, and actors who needed a quick way to find projects that interested them. To solve this, a brief one-line summary, known as the logline, was written on the spine of each script.
The logline allowed industry professionals to scan shelves quickly and efficiently, identifying stories that caught their attention without the need to untack and read through the entire script. It was a practical solution that streamlined the selection process in an industry where time was of the essence.
Beyond its convenience, the logline also served as a critical first impression. A well-crafted logline could spark curiosity and draw professionals into the full script, making it an essential tool in pitching and selling a screenplay.
Even today, in the digital age, the logline remains an important part of screenwriting, continuing its legacy from the old studio days by providing a quick, effective way to convey a story’s core idea.