Many screenwriters are turning to modern tools instead of traditional PDFs to create pilots for movies and TV shows. SoCreate, the latest entrant into the screenwriting software space, is challenging established players like Final Draft and Celtx with a fresh approach to storytelling. And most importantly, it involves generated AI images.
SoCreate offers many of the same features that most screenwriting software offers, including templates to easily create industry-standard screenplays in the correct format. But SoCreate founder and CEO Justin Cuto believes the popular platform is still lacking, especially when it comes to visual and creative tools.
“When I decided to go to university, I realized that I was drawn to film, which meant I needed to dive into the art of screenwriting. I realized I was missing something. If I'm writing for visual media like film or television, do I have to use this old black and white document in an outdated typewriter-based format? I thought there had to be a way, a way that was more visual and fun and creative,” Couto told TechCrunch.
SoCreate believes one of its big selling points is its image uploader tool, which allows screenwriters to incorporate visual concepts like characters, settings, and action moments into their scripts. Users can choose to upload their own images or choose from SoCreate's illustration gallery.
Soon, users will be able to create images using an AI-powered image generator. Images are enhanced by a combination of models such as OpenAI, Stable Diffusion, and more. It's important to note that SoCreate has no plans to offer AI-generated writing tools. The image generator is only intended to give users inspiration while writing and reduce the monotony of the process.
Image credit: SoCreate
Another standout feature is “Storyteller,” which the platform released earlier this week. Storyteller is a dedicated hub for users to share their stories in a public library for others to read. This new feature is reminiscent of Wattpad, giving a community of readers free access to scripts written by both established and aspiring authors.
The company says Storyteller helps aspiring screenwriters market their work more effectively, providing published “visually stunning” portfolios without the need for Hollywood connections that aren't readily available. I think it can be built.
However, some screenwriters may not want to publish their scripts for fear of plagiarism. Users have the option to keep their work private on SoCreate, and the platform uses encryption. Additionally, we have a strict policy against plagiarism. It's always a good idea to register your work with organizations such as the National Writers Guild or the U.S. Copyright Office.
“My personal theory, and this is not legal advice, is that when you publicly publish a work online, you are protected from plagiarism in a number of ways. You don't really get that with a PDF, which proves you're the original author and that there were hundreds or thousands of eyes that first saw it on SoCreate.'' claims.
Coote envisions Storyteller to be more than just a reading experience. In the future, we will also add the ability to include AI-generated character voices, sound effects, and background music. The latest update to Final Draft includes an option that allows users to assign character voices to read scripts.
Image credit: SoCreate
Additionally, readers can leave comments below the script, allowing screenwriters to provide instant feedback even if they were previously accustomed to exporting to PDF and emailing. Users can share links to any part of a story, from one part to an entire conversation, and readers can write notes and suggestions without requiring a SoCreate account.
Another great feature is reading statistics. Screenwriters can see if someone actually read their story, where they stopped reading, how long they read it, and where they left comments.
This platform is primarily aimed at people who write movies, TV shows, and short films. However, the company is also looking at templates for articles, novels, and short stories, expanding its reach to more creators.
“Once we establish narrative storytelling, we move into new areas such as business, education, journalism, lifestyle, and research. As our readership grows, we add subscriptions to access the SoCreate library, Creators have new opportunities to earn money from their work through revenue sharing with SoCreate,” said Couto.
SoCreate launched last May and has gained over 1,200 subscribers. The platform says some of its users include authors who have created works for Amazon, Disney, Marvel and Netflix. We also have pilot programs and other programs in place at select high schools in California and Illinois.
The platform is free for all users, but if you want access to custom image tools and reviewer statistics, you'll need to spend $10 per month for a Professional subscription. There's also a personal tier for $5 per month, which includes unlimited projects and access to SoCreate's image gallery.
The company closed a $3 million pre-seed round last year and is currently raising a $5 million seed round that will be used for development and marketing.