Quick Overview
- 1#1: Final Draft - Industry-standard screenwriting software used by Hollywood professionals for formatting and writing feature films and TV scripts.
- 2#2: Fade In - Professional, cross-platform screenwriting software with advanced formatting, revision tracking, and collaboration features.
- 3#3: Celtx - Cloud-based screenwriting and pre-production tool for collaborative scriptwriting and storyboarding.
- 4#4: WriterDuet - Real-time collaborative screenwriting platform supporting multiple formats and live editing.
- 5#5: Arc Studio Pro - Modern screenwriting app with AI-assisted outlining, beat sheets, and professional formatting.
- 6#6: Scrivener - Versatile writing suite with screenplay templates, corkboard outlining, and project organization tools.
- 7#7: Slugline - Distraction-free Markdown-based screenwriting software that auto-formats Fountain scripts.
- 8#8: Highland 2 - Simple Fountain markup editor that converts plain text into industry-standard screenplay PDFs.
- 9#9: StudioBinder - All-in-one production platform with free cloud-based scriptwriting, breakdowns, and collaboration.
- 10#10: Trelby - Free, open-source screenwriting program with standard formatting and basic scene navigation.
These tools were chosen based on robust features, true-to-form formatting, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring they deliver exceptional support for writing, revising, and preparing scripts for production.
Comparison Table
Movie writing software is a cornerstone of modern screenwriting, offering tools to structure, format, and refine scripts. This comparison table explores key options like Final Draft, Fade In, Celtx, WriterDuet, Arc Studio Pro, and more, examining features, usability, and cost to guide you toward the ideal tool for your creative process.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Final Draft Industry-standard screenwriting software used by Hollywood professionals for formatting and writing feature films and TV scripts. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 10/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Fade In Professional, cross-platform screenwriting software with advanced formatting, revision tracking, and collaboration features. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 3 | Celtx Cloud-based screenwriting and pre-production tool for collaborative scriptwriting and storyboarding. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | WriterDuet Real-time collaborative screenwriting platform supporting multiple formats and live editing. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | Arc Studio Pro Modern screenwriting app with AI-assisted outlining, beat sheets, and professional formatting. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Scrivener Versatile writing suite with screenplay templates, corkboard outlining, and project organization tools. | creative_suite | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | Slugline Distraction-free Markdown-based screenwriting software that auto-formats Fountain scripts. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | Highland 2 Simple Fountain markup editor that converts plain text into industry-standard screenplay PDFs. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 9 | StudioBinder All-in-one production platform with free cloud-based scriptwriting, breakdowns, and collaboration. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Trelby Free, open-source screenwriting program with standard formatting and basic scene navigation. | other | 6.8/10 | 5.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Industry-standard screenwriting software used by Hollywood professionals for formatting and writing feature films and TV scripts.
Professional, cross-platform screenwriting software with advanced formatting, revision tracking, and collaboration features.
Cloud-based screenwriting and pre-production tool for collaborative scriptwriting and storyboarding.
Real-time collaborative screenwriting platform supporting multiple formats and live editing.
Modern screenwriting app with AI-assisted outlining, beat sheets, and professional formatting.
Versatile writing suite with screenplay templates, corkboard outlining, and project organization tools.
Distraction-free Markdown-based screenwriting software that auto-formats Fountain scripts.
Simple Fountain markup editor that converts plain text into industry-standard screenplay PDFs.
All-in-one production platform with free cloud-based scriptwriting, breakdowns, and collaboration.
Free, open-source screenwriting program with standard formatting and basic scene navigation.
Final Draft
specializedIndustry-standard screenwriting software used by Hollywood professionals for formatting and writing feature films and TV scripts.
Nonstop automatic formatting that adheres to exact Hollywood standards without manual adjustments
Final Draft is the industry-standard screenwriting software trusted by Hollywood professionals for creating professionally formatted movie and TV scripts. It provides automatic formatting, outline tools like index cards, revision modes, and real-time collaboration features to streamline the writing process. With integrations for production software and mobile apps for on-the-go editing, it's built for the full script lifecycle from draft to shooting script.
Pros
- Industry-standard formatting that's universally accepted by studios and producers
- Powerful collaboration tools including real-time co-writing and cloud sync
- Comprehensive outlining, beat board, and revision tracking for efficient workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners despite intuitive interface
- High upfront cost for perpetual license or ongoing subscription fees
- Limited mobile functionality compared to desktop version
Best For
Professional screenwriters, showrunners, and production teams needing reliable, studio-accepted script formatting and collaboration.
Pricing
Perpetual license $249.99 one-time; annual subscription $99.99; monthly $20.99.
Fade In
specializedProfessional, cross-platform screenwriting software with advanced formatting, revision tracking, and collaboration features.
Native Linux support and seamless cross-platform file compatibility without format issues
Fade In is a professional screenwriting software tailored for movie and TV scriptwriting, offering industry-standard automatic formatting, advanced navigation tools, and production features like index cards, beat boards, and revision tracking. It supports importing and exporting formats such as Final Draft, Fountain, and PDF, making it versatile for collaboration and production handoffs. Available natively on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, it emphasizes offline reliability with optional cloud sync.
Pros
- One-time purchase model eliminates subscriptions
- Comprehensive tools including beat board, navigator, and detailed reports
- True cross-platform support including Linux and mobile apps
Cons
- Interface appears somewhat dated and less polished
- Collaboration lacks real-time editing compared to cloud-native rivals
- Initial learning curve for advanced features
Best For
Professional and indie screenwriters seeking a reliable, feature-rich alternative to expensive subscription software.
Pricing
Personal license $79.95 one-time; Mobile app $4.99; Free unlimited trial with full features.
Celtx
specializedCloud-based screenwriting and pre-production tool for collaborative scriptwriting and storyboarding.
Built-in production breakdowns and scheduling that automatically generate from scripts
Celtx is a cloud-based screenwriting and pre-production platform that enables writers to create industry-standard scripts, storyboards, index cards, and beat boards. It offers real-time collaboration, production breakdowns, scheduling, and reporting tools to streamline the filmmaking process from concept to production. Available on web, desktop, and mobile, it's geared toward solo writers and teams handling full pre-production workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one tools for scripting, storyboarding, and production management
- Real-time cloud collaboration for teams
- Industry-standard formatting with templates for various media
Cons
- Free plan has watermarks and project limits
- Some advanced features feel clunky or require premium upgrade
- Occasional sync issues across devices
Best For
Aspiring screenwriters and indie filmmakers who need integrated pre-production tools beyond basic writing.
Pricing
Free limited plan; Pro at $14.99/month or $144/year; Teams at $24.99/user/month.
WriterDuet
specializedReal-time collaborative screenwriting platform supporting multiple formats and live editing.
Real-time collaborative editing with live cursors and no user limits
WriterDuet is a cloud-based screenwriting software that specializes in real-time collaborative writing for movies and TV scripts. It automatically formats text to industry-standard screenplay guidelines, supports unlimited collaborators, and includes tools like revision mode, beat boards, and production reports. Available across web, desktop, and mobile, it's praised for streamlining remote teamwork while maintaining professional output.
Pros
- Exceptional real-time collaboration with unlimited users
- Intuitive interface with automatic industry-standard formatting
- Generous free tier and cross-platform accessibility
Cons
- Advanced production tools limited to Pro plan
- Offline functionality requires desktop app sync
- Fewer pre-built templates compared to desktop rivals like Final Draft
Best For
Remote writing teams or co-writers seeking seamless real-time collaboration without high costs.
Pricing
Free forever plan; Plus at $7.49/month (annual) or $11.99/month; Pro at $14.99/month (annual) or $24.99/month.
Arc Studio Pro
specializedModern screenwriting app with AI-assisted outlining, beat sheets, and professional formatting.
Beat Board for interactive, visual script outlining and non-linear story development
Arc Studio Pro is a cloud-based screenwriting software tailored for professional movie writers, offering tools for script formatting, outlining, and collaboration. It features a modern interface with beat sheets, character arcs, and revision tracking to streamline the screenplay development process. Ideal for both solo writers and teams, it supports importing from Final Draft and exporting to industry standards like PDF and Fountain.
Pros
- Highly intuitive and distraction-free interface
- Powerful Beat Board for visual outlining and storyboarding
- Robust collaboration and revision history tools
Cons
- Subscription model required for full pro features
- Fewer advanced production tools than legacy software like Final Draft
- Occasional sync issues in offline mode
Best For
Emerging screenwriters and collaborative teams seeking a modern, user-friendly alternative to traditional desktop apps.
Pricing
Free tier available; Pro at $69/year ($9/month billed annually); Teams at $12/user/month.
Scrivener
creative_suiteVersatile writing suite with screenplay templates, corkboard outlining, and project organization tools.
Corkboard view for drag-and-drop scene rearrangement like physical index cards
Scrivener is a versatile writing application tailored for long-form projects, including screenplays, offering dedicated templates for industry-standard formatting like Final Draft compatibility. It excels in project management with tools such as the binder for organizing scenes, the corkboard for visual storyboarding, and the outliner for hierarchical structuring of acts and sequences. Writers can compile scripts into PDF, Fountain, or FDX formats, making it suitable for movie writing from outlining to final draft.
Pros
- Exceptional organization tools like corkboard and outliner for complex screenplay structures
- One-time purchase with no recurring fees
- Robust compile options for professional screenplay exports
Cons
- Steeper learning curve than dedicated screenwriting apps
- Limited real-time collaboration features
- Formatting can require tweaks for perfect industry standards
Best For
Screenwriters managing large, research-heavy projects who prioritize outlining and revision over simple script entry.
Pricing
One-time purchase: $59 (Mac), $49 (Windows), $23.99 (iOS); free trial available.
Slugline
specializedDistraction-free Markdown-based screenwriting software that auto-formats Fountain scripts.
Fountain markup support, enabling plain text scripts that render instantly into formatted screenplays and work with Git for version control.
Slugline is a minimalist screenwriting app for macOS and iOS that leverages Fountain markup language to let writers create professional screenplays using plain text. It automatically formats elements like scenes, characters, and dialogue as you type, providing a distraction-free environment focused purely on writing. The app supports seamless exports to PDF and Final Draft (.fdx) formats, ensuring compatibility with industry tools.
Pros
- Distraction-free plain text writing with auto-formatting
- Portable Fountain files for easy sharing and version control
- Reliable exports to PDF and Final Draft formats
Cons
- No real-time collaboration or cloud syncing
- Lacks advanced planning tools like index cards or beat boards
- macOS and iOS only, no Windows or web version
Best For
Solo screenwriters who want a fast, no-frills tool for drafting scripts in plain text without complex interfaces.
Pricing
$39.99 one-time purchase for macOS; iOS version $19.99 one-time.
Highland 2
specializedSimple Fountain markup editor that converts plain text into industry-standard screenplay PDFs.
Seamless Fountain-to-PDF conversion that produces print-ready, professionally formatted screenplays effortlessly
Highland 2 is a streamlined screenwriting software built around the Fountain plain-text markup language, enabling writers to create professional movie and TV scripts with automatic formatting. It offers a distraction-free interface with smart auto-completion, scene numbering, and seamless export to industry-standard PDF and Final Draft (.fdx) files. Designed for Mac users, it emphasizes simplicity and version control compatibility, making it ideal for drafting and revising screenplays without unnecessary bloat.
Pros
- Exceptional Fountain markup support for lightweight, git-friendly workflows
- Flawless PDF exports with customizable title pages and precise industry formatting
- Intuitive, minimalist interface that prioritizes writing speed and focus
Cons
- Limited to macOS for the full desktop experience (web version is subscription-based and less feature-rich)
- Lacks advanced collaboration tools and real-time multiplayer editing
- Fewer built-in production features like character reports or revision tracking compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Solo screenwriters and drafters who value plain-text simplicity and Mac-native performance over collaborative or production-heavy workflows.
Pricing
Mac desktop app: $49.99 one-time purchase; Highland Web: $9.99/month or $99/year.
StudioBinder
enterpriseAll-in-one production platform with free cloud-based scriptwriting, breakdowns, and collaboration.
AI-driven automatic script breakdown that identifies and tags hundreds of elements instantly
StudioBinder is an all-in-one production management platform designed for filmmakers, with robust tools for script uploading, breakdown, and management that support the movie writing workflow into pre-production. It excels at automatically tagging script elements like characters, props, and locations using AI, generating stripboards, schedules, and reports from screenplays. While not a dedicated screenplay writing tool with advanced formatting, it bridges writing and production seamlessly for collaborative teams.
Pros
- AI-powered script breakdown automates tagging and analysis
- Strong collaboration and sharing for teams
- Integrates script management with scheduling and shot lists
Cons
- Limited native screenplay writing and formatting tools
- Subscription pricing adds up for solo users
- Learning curve for full production suite
Best For
Screenwriters and small production teams needing to transition scripts from writing to breakdown and scheduling.
Pricing
Free plan with limits; Indie at $29/user/month, Pro at $49/user/month, with annual discounts and enterprise options.
Trelby
otherFree, open-source screenwriting program with standard formatting and basic scene navigation.
Ultra-minimalist design that enforces proper screenplay formatting effortlessly, letting writers focus solely on content
Trelby is a free, open-source screenwriting software that emphasizes simplicity and distraction-free writing for creating professional screenplays. It automatically applies industry-standard formatting for scenes, dialogue, and actions, supporting basic editing and navigation tools. Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, it exports to PDF, Final Draft XML, and Fountain formats without requiring subscriptions or complex setups.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no ads or limitations
- Distraction-free interface focused purely on writing
- Reliable automatic industry-standard screenplay formatting
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like collaboration, revisions, or storyboarding
- Outdated user interface with no modern updates or mobile support
- No cloud syncing or real-time feedback tools
Best For
Budget-conscious beginner screenwriters who want a simple desktop tool for drafting basic scripts without distractions.
Pricing
Free (open-source, no paid tiers)
Conclusion
The top 10 movie writing software reviewed caters to diverse needs, with Final Draft securing the top spot as the industry standard, preferred by professionals for its trusted formatting and reliability. Fade In and Celtx follow closely, offering robust collaboration tools and cross-platform flexibility, making them excellent alternatives depending on specific workflow requirements. Every tool in the list provides unique strengths, ensuring there’s something for writers at every level.
Take the first step toward crafting your next great story—try Final Draft, the top-ranked choice, and experience why it remains a staple in professional screenwriting circles.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison