A micro release, also known as a logline, is a short summary of a script. It is a single sentence of ideally 25 words or less that sums up the whole picture. It should hook the reader, entice him to read more, discover or maybe invest in his idea.
The micro pitch has two main purposes. For the writer, it focuses and distills the ideas contained in a feature film script. When writing, it prevents them from deviating from the central narrative. When it comes to selling the script, it helps grab the reader’s attention and encourages them to keep reading.
The micro pitch is usually the starting point of the entire production. Provided by one of you, it will not only form the basis of the script, but also give you a guaranteed share of any possible future profits.
Below are a couple of examples of micro releases and their respective movies:
Gladiator
When a Roman general is betrayed and his family murdered by a corrupt prince, he comes to Rome as a gladiator seeking revenge.
Rushmore
A precocious private high school student whose life revolves around his school competes with his most famous and successful student for the affection of a first grade teacher.
The Godfather
An epic story of a 1940s New York mob family and their struggle to protect their empire, as leadership shifts from the father to his youngest son.
In Hollywood they say you can make a bad movie with a good script, but you can never make a good movie with a bad script.
Make sure you start your script in the best possible way.
