Hunting for Clues in the Logline
Typically, when you receive an audition request, it includes a breakdown of the project’s filmmakers, location, and a logline – a one sentence description of the story and characters. I’ll admit that I often head straight for my character's description before I read the project description. But if I want to understand where my character might fit in, or what their journey might be – clues can be found in the logline (VIDEO BELOW).
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If no description of the project has been offered, you can try looking the project up on IMDb. I also find clues about possible tone and genre by looking up the producers and director on IMDbPro and seeing if they have specialty genres. Understanding tone gives you a better idea of the expectations for your character and the overall vibe of the project.
Sometimes there is almost no information about your character. Small parts can have no personal details at all – just a label like “CUSTOMER.” The more you understand about the story, the richer you can make your character – no matter how small the part or how little information you’re given.
How to find clues about story, tone, genre, character arcs, and more in a logline
This video walks you through finding clues from a one-sentence description using examples from Star Wars, The Godfather, Get Out, and Little Miss Sunshine. I made it as part of my Creating Characters course for writers but the information applies equally to the process for actors.
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