Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

[frswriter]

With respect to query letters for managers/agents, it is better to include a simple logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis?

I have a solid logline. In some letters I have included a synopsis. Just getting started with all the queries so too early to get a sense of what is working vs. what is not...

My thought is...Do they even read a synopsis? So....better to just go with a simple logline? Taking into consideration how busy they all are...etc.

Thanks!

[Joaneasley]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

If your logline works, less is more.

[mixj]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

If your logline works, less is more.

just do both. Don't summarize your entire script. Tell what it's about, the theme, and what the character will face in the story.

[Madbandit]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

Logline. You should only include a synopsis, if the agent/manager asks for it.

[mixj]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

Logline. You should only include a synopsis, if the agent/manager asks for it.

I dunno about that. Maybe I agree with not synopsizing the entire script, but you should definitely include a paragraph talking about the script in some manner.

[Madbandit]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

I dunno about that. Maybe I agree with not synopsizing the entire script, but you should definitely include a paragraph talking about the script in some manner.

But the agent/manager/assistant is busy with other things. It's better to attract them with a short yet interesting logline. Even if they pass on it, at least respect them while they work.

[mixj]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

But the agent/manager/assistant is busy with other things. It's better to attract them with a short yet interesting logline. Even if they pass on it, at least respect them while they work.

Of course. But no one is going to pass on a great log line because the rest of the query is too long and they don't have time to read it.

[Joaneasley]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

If they love the logline, there's a good chance they'll request the script. But if they like the logline and then don't like the synopsis, they may well change their minds about requesting the script. Quit while you're ahead.

Some loglines need a synopsis to explain the idea better, or to demonstrate the emotion and tone of the script that isn't evident in the logline alone. If you need the synopsis to show your idea to best advantage, use it. But if the logline itself gets a positive reaction from just about everyone who hears it, you might as well use the logline alone.

[Paladin]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

If they love the logline, there's a good chance they'll request the script. But if they like the logline and then don't like the synopsis, they may well change their minds about requesting the script. Quit while you're ahead.

Some loglines need a synopsis to explain the idea better, or to demonstrate the emotion and tone of the script that isn't evident in the logline alone. If you need the synopsis to show your idea to best advantage, use it. But if the logline itself gets a positive reaction from just about everyone who hears it, you might as well use the logline alone.

I couldn't agree more. And if you need a synopsis, try to keep it as short as possible (4-5 sentences max).

[Manchester]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

With respect to query letters for managers/agents, it is better to include a simple logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis?

How long is the logline? You might consider a logline plus a 3-4 line synopsis. 'Cause, if they start reading your query letter and don't like the logline, then it seems to me that such a brief synopsis can't hurt. I'd figure, they'd probably never get to the synopsis. But if they did get to it, it would give you an extra hook on your troll-line.

Just my sense of things, but I think you want to avoid making your query letter look long. You've got your opening, closing, and logline. How many more lines of text do you want to add? What do you want to use those lines for.

And so, if you spend a paragraph explaining that you got the person's e-mail address from the recipient's college buddy, who is also your cousin, then also adding a synopsis could take you past the appearance-tipping-point. IOW (and mixing allusions), a query letter is merely a 5 lb bag, so only put 5 lbs in it. YMMV.

[frswriter]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

This is a great forum. The feedback has been great - thoughtful and thorough!

Greatly appreciated. I am leaning toward going with a logline. And maybe a truncated synopsis.

[Madbandit]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

Of course. But no one is going to pass on a great log line because the rest of the query is too long and they don't have time to read it.

Uh...if I'm a script reader and I have to read queries that are too long, I'd probably quit. I want to read a screenplay that tells the whole story, not a query.

[Jim E]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

Just the logline.

[BillG]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

If you feel your script is high concept, then definitely use a logline only.

If you feel your script is not high concept, you can add a very short synopsis to try to add your (hopefully) unique spin on that familiar concept if said spin is something that wouldn't come through organically in the logline alone.

[madworld]

Re: Logline or 3-4 paragraph synopsis

I've written 2-3 lines before with a lot of success. I'd rather write 2-3 if I need and have maximum clarity, compared to 1 crammed sentence - when truly, no one cares. They aren't going to pass on something because there's 2-3 lines.

They will pass if the concept is muddy, has no hook or it doesn't interest them. Of course, don't go overboard. Don't write a full synopsis, unless they request it. That's a given. I also wouldn't write a logline, followed by a synopsis in the same email. They'll circle back if they're into it.

Keep in mind - they may want to pitch or upsell your project to either their team or bosses, so make it easy for them. Just something to think about and my opinion. I'm aware it's counter to a couple experiences here, just relaying mine.