Celtx - nobody in the industry can tell the difference when it comes to the final PDF.

There are things about it that could be a bit better but I've never had a problem knocking out scripts. The developers have a list are always available to provide help.

Not that I've bothered with it but they also have an iPhone/iPad app that is just the scriptwriting part of the package.

The thing that this article completely misses is the other side of Scripped's business model. I've been a longtime Scripped member, and they have been diligent about giving their writers opportunities to succeed. It's not just the software, it's the opportunities Scripped gives its writers that separates it from CELTX, Screenwritingpro, Final Draft and Movie Magic. Screenwriting software is not all that interesting, giving amateurs legitimate opportunities is interesting.

Celtx, for all the reasons Adaddinsane gave.

There are advantages to using Final Draft as a commissioned writer, when you're part of a collaborative workflow and it makes sense to have a common file format, but for spec scripts Celtx does the job and saves you a bunch of cash.

I realize that brand loyalty is the ideology of America, something beat into TV toddlers nonstop, ensuring they will buy Skippy and Barbie well into their eighties, if they are lucky enough not to have died in a gun battle over what frozen pizza is the best. As a working writer I sold my first script using a typewriter and all subsequent sales using an ancient version of WordPerfect. The only reason I use Final Draft is because you are more likely to be compatible with other writers. However, FD is a very clumsy writing program, as are the others. The ability to manipulate the page to your desire with a spacebar, anyway you need, is the whole point. If I had more time I would go back to my typewriter.

I completely agree with Lisa's comments.
I also use First Draft and Movie Magic, however Scripped not only offer excellent software which you can use on the move, but more importantly, allows aspiring writers the invaluable possibility to break into the business.
They continually provide interesting competitions which not only pushes creativity, but also awards writers with genuine opportunities.
They also provide an open forum for members to exchange ideas, advice and review each others work. Personally, I haven't come across any other similar company and would thoroughly recommend them.

I use two new programs: Screenwriting Pro, and Scrivener. The first is okay, looks nice, but I won't buy - just using the free tester beta version at the moment. Scrivener is a writing program for all types of writers/writing, screenplays being one. I really enjoy it so far, and have paid the $50 for it.

I use both Final Draft and the scripped.com free software depending on the project.

Regarding Lisa's comments on the Scripped business model, I have to agree with her assessment of the opportunities Scripped gives writers.

I've had an internet project produced through a Scripped contest (I used their software to write that one) and I've had the opportunity to make several thousand dollars in writing projects that came from Scripped contacts.

Their staff has been a delight to work with and I highly recommend their services.

To all you Scripped fans, did you know today is Scripped Day in San Francisco? Find out more here.

I use Final Draft. It's easy, and I don't have to think about it.

I've used CELTX, and it worked pretty good except that you had to download your script, if you wanted to get the Cont'D function.

I didn't like the idea of someone else having access to my script.

I think what makes Scripped special are the opportunities they make possible for aspiring screenwriters. I've entered several of their competitions, came close to winning, and even though I didn't win, the guys at Scripped kept me in mind. They later recommended me to another company, which offered me a great writing gig. Sunil and the guys at Scripped really want their writers to succeed, and that's pretty cool.


...Ervin....

Blogger Adaddinsane said...

Celtx - nobody in the industry can tell the difference when it comes to the final PDF.

Definitely.

I wouldn't do business with the guys who put out Scripped.

http://johnaugust.com/archives/2009/startups

I've never had the opportunity to try out any of the other screenwriting software programs mentioned in the article, but honestly, as a long time Scripped user, I've never had a reason to either. In addition to the contests and writing projects the others have talked about, Scripped comes with, what is essentially, a built in encyclopedia of screenwriting know how in the form of it's user base. I haven't come up with a technical question yet that hasn't been answered on their discussion boards in reasonable time, nor have I produced a single piece of writing that I haven't been able to get useful feedback on from other writers. Honestly, just take a few minutes and check it out. That's how I got started and I've been landing paid writing gigs for months because of them.

I'm a Final Draft loyalist. It's easy to use and I don't consider it expensive when you consider what you are getting out of it - reliability and compatibility. It's been around a long time so it's not a buggy program. However, it doesn't have a great outlining component - though I did just order the upgrade to version 8, which looks like it's made some strides. For prep work and outlining, I love, love, love Scrivener. It's under $50 and for organizing a large piece of writing and laying out a scene-by-scene plan, you can't beat it with a stick. So the combo - FD and Scrivener - have worked really well for me.

I realize I'm just another voice in the multitude of writers praising Scripped.com at this point, but honestly... what they're saying is all true.

I've been with Scripped for roughly 2 years now, and like the others, I've really no need to go anywhere else. From it's massive (and growing) community of helpful writers, to its database of knowledge and answered questions, you can't beat it as a resource of relevant, up-to-date standards on film and screenwriting.

For me, the clincher is the Scripped staff. They are intelligent, vocal, approachable, and honestly want to see you succeed. They are there for you, in your corner, consistently delivering real industry opportunities, legitimate work arrangements, and challenging contests (for cash) to flex your creative and technical muscles. I've made real money, with real celebrities and major companies, that have gone on to be produced.

I write most of my work in Final Draft - I just always have. That's not to say that Scripped.com isn't a viable writer, it is, and it's free.

For writers trying to break in, Scripped.com can definitely be your open door, and that's something Final Draft and Movie Magic can't top.

All you Scripped folks: Good job representing for the outfit! I've updated the OP to include a link to the Scripped.com Day announcement as well as some background info. I'll also forward this thread to Ryan Buckley, just to let him know how much their efforts are appreciated by writers such as yourself.

Final Draft is my laptop's best friend!

Scrivener for windows is what I'm most excited about, free beta available now, eagerly awaiting future versions. LOVE how you can move around content and incorporate all kinds of files. Kinder to a visual thinker than final draft, though final draft still king for me re idiot-proof formatting.

So quick shout out for a product I'm excited about, that comes from good folk, and that I'd love to use exclusively some day:
http://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivenerforwindows/

Now I'm just waiting for a script app for droid...