SoCreate Aims to Revolutionize Screenwriting with AI and Sharing Tools

SoCreate is set to revolutionize screenwriting by incorporating AI imagery and community sharing tools into its software. This innovative approach aims to enhance the creative process, making it easier for writers to visualize their scripts and collaborate effectively. With these advancements, SoCreate strives to empower screenwriters, streamline their workflows, and foster a vibrant community of creative talent in the film industry.

Many screenwriters are opting for modern tools rather than traditional PDFs when developing their film or TV pilots. SoCreate, a newcomer in the screenwriting software market, is taking on established competitors like Final Draft and Celtx with its innovative storytelling methods, notably incorporating generative AI imagery.

SoCreate provides many features typical of screenwriting software, including templates that help users create an industry-standard screenplay with the correct formatting. However, Justin Couto, the founder and CEO of SoCreate, believes that existing platforms still fall short, especially regarding visual and creative capabilities.

“When I decided to pursue a college education, I found myself drawn to film, which led me to explore the art of screenwriting. I quickly discovered the process to be tedious and uninspiring. It felt strange to write for a visual medium like movies and TV while relying on an outdated black-and-white document with formatting reminiscent of typewriters. I knew there had to be a better, more visual, engaging, and creative approach,” Couto shared with TechCrunch.

A key feature of SoCreate is its image uploader tool, allowing screenwriters to integrate visual elements into their scripts, such as images of characters, settings, and action sequences. Users can upload their images or choose from SoCreate’s collection of illustrations.

In the near future, users will also be able to utilize an AI-powered image generator to create visuals, relying on a combination of models, including OpenAI, Stable Diffusion, and others. However, it is essential to note that SoCreate does not intend to offer AI-generated writing tools. Instead, the image generator aims to inspire users during their writing process, making it more engaging.

Another notable feature, launched earlier this week, is called “Storyteller.” This hub allows users to share their scripts in a public library, providing others the opportunity to read them for free. This feature is similar to Wattpad, fostering a community where both seasoned and aspiring writers can showcase their work.

The company believes that Storyteller will enable budding screenwriters to market their scripts more effectively, helping them create a public and “visually stunning” portfolio without needing exclusive Hollywood connections.

However, some screenwriters may hesitate to publish their scripts publicly due to concerns about plagiarism. SoCreate allows users to keep their work private, employing encryption for added security. The platform also enforces a strict anti-plagiarism policy. Writers are always encouraged to register their works with organizations like the Writers Guild of America or the U.S. Copyright Office.

“My personal theory, and this is not legal advice, is that publishing your work publicly online can protect you from plagiarism in many ways. It provides timestamped proof that you were the original author, and with hundreds or thousands of eyes viewing your work on SoCreate, it establishes your claim as the creator. A PDF doesn’t offer that level of assurance,” Couto explained.

Couto envisions Storyteller evolving beyond a mere reading platform. Future updates may include the addition of AI-generated character voices, sound effects, and background music. The latest version of Final Draft includes a feature allowing users to assign voices to characters for script reading.

Additionally, readers can leave comments on scripts, enabling instant feedback. Previously, screenwriters had to export their work as a PDF and email it for feedback. Now, users can share links to any section of their story, whether a single line of dialogue or the entire script, allowing readers to provide notes or suggestions without needing a SoCreate account.

A significant feature called Reading Stats lets screenwriters track if someone has read their script, identify where they paused, monitor how long they spent reading, and see where they left comments.

The platform primarily targets individuals writing movies, TV shows, and short films. However, the company is also looking into templates for articles, novels, and short stories, expanding its reach to a wider audience of creatives.

“Once we perfect narrative storytelling, we plan to explore new areas, including business, education, journalism, lifestyle, and research. As our readership grows, we will introduce subscriptions for accessing the SoCreate library, and creators will have new opportunities to earn revenue through partnerships with SoCreate,” Couto added.

Launched in May, SoCreate has already attracted over 1,200 subscribers, including writers who have produced work for Amazon, Disney, Marvel, and Netflix. It also collaborates with selected high schools in California and Illinois to run pilot programs.

The platform is free for all users, but those wishing to access the custom image tool and reading stats will need to subscribe to the Professional tier for $10 a month. There’s also a Personal tier available for $5 a month, which includes unlimited projects and access to SoCreate’s image gallery.

Last year, the company completed a $3 million pre-seed funding round and is currently in the process of raising a $5 million seed round intended for development and marketing efforts.

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