Well, i've used both. Usually when i'm writing something less formal, i'll use Celtix because more people that are less formal have it, i've used Final Draft a few times for scripts, but, so few people have it and it is so expensive for those that don't, i'm curious what people here use. Final Draft is usually reserved for those very serious/talented about writing while Celtix, the free rip-off version, seems more based for public use and for most of my purposes [writing scripts for machinima films] it accomplishes the goal.

Feedback?

Hmm... what is Celtix? Pardon my ignorance, but I've never heard of it. Is it a script/screenplay formatting program by any chance?

It's a very NICE AMAZING WONDER script writing program and it's 100% free. Go to Celtx.com

When you get there click on the red link that says "Download".

Then click on whatever language you usually speack. And it should download.

I love Celtx. I was searching for days and days for a nice script writing program and I finally found it.

And you write it so much faster than with Microsoft Word.

I've never used Final Draft, but I've heard that most script writing things insert all sorts of annoying things -- like it numbers yourscenes authomatically and does all sorts of things that sort of make you look like an idiot if you're submitting your first script.

Just from the example video of that celtx link shows me that it's quality is infinitely inferior compared to the final draft version. I have Final Draft version 7 which I still think is the latest (forget the add ons, you won't need 'em).

It's expensive to buy (if you don't actally know how to download it ;) ;) ) but if you're serious about screenwriting as opposed to just dabbling in it for fun now and again then I recommend it.

The earlier versions of FD used to crash so there are so many critics of it but FD7 is the best. Celtx may be free but as I said, it looks terribly amateur.

I've never used Final Draft, but I've heard that most script writing things insert all sorts of annoying things -- like it numbers yourscenes authomatically and does all sorts of things that sort of make you look like an idiot if you're submitting your first script.

not when you know how to use it, lt... and fd is the one most seasoned and pro screenwriters, agents and prodcos use... it's also the best and easiest to use for beginners who want to make a career in film... a close second is moviemagic screenwriter...

fd is the only program i use [have done so since it was 'born' in the 80s] or recommend... that said, celtix or even ms word's script template are ok for beginners who can't afford the cost...

love and hugs, maia

If you are new to screenwriting or just looking for a writing tool to help the process along, then you may want to take a look at Celtx. Celtx is a FREE screenwriting word processor that is dedicated to screenwriting and nothing else. It has all the bells as whistles you’d expect to find in a premium package costing hundreds of dollars, but it’s FREE! So before you shell out a couple of hundred bucks for a new screenwriting program check it out. Let me know what you think.

“Celtx (current version 0.9.8) is the first comprehensive software package designed for people who work in the Pre-Production (http://www.writingforums.org/index.php?title=Pre-Production) of Film, TV, Video, Theatre and Animation. Celtx helps Creators bring their story ideas to life – combining intelligent writing and media planning tools with Internet friendly technologies to create a new, open standards platform for the pre-production of Media. It provides all of the tools you need under one application. Celtx is international too, it's available in 20 languages.”

Here is the link: Celtx.com (http://celtx.com/)

PS: I am posting this a little late, as Laimtoe and others have already discovered Celtx. I would encourage anyone to check it out before spending the cash on Final Draft are any other screenwriting software. I have both. Celtx peforms pretty damn good IMO, and of course it's FREE! And if you are only testing the waters to your screenwriting ability it only makes sense to try this program -- unless you are rich.

I use Sophocles

http://www.sophocles.net/

final draft is the best to use, if you're serious about a career in screenwriting... movie magic's 'screenwriter' is a close second best... till you can afford the best, you can get an ms word script template download or use any of the other freebies...

I would tend to agree with mammamaia, if you want to go pro with screen writing then FD is definintely the industry standard and it would be well worth your time and energy to learn it. HOWEVER, I am also a BIG believer in open source projects (recently leaving my Photoshop habit for The Gimp and Inkscape). If you have the technical know how and are willing to take the time to learn the work arounds you can put out some pretty amazing stuff with software that you don't have to drop a bundle on (or hax or torrent). But it will be inferior, harder to use, and less reputable than a program like FD. Programs like FD cost that much for a reason and it's the same reason everyone in hollywood is using it.

good analysis, zb!