Honestly, it’s getting to the point where cruising the app store is a hobby.  I promise this post isn’t about my iPhone but rather an amazing app I didn’t think I’d ever see.  Naturally, when I first began searching for apps that were relevant to my life, screenplay was among the first searches I did.  To my surprise, Black Mana Studios came through in the clutch with the aptly named, Screenplay… App.

Immediately, I spent the $7.99 to download the program.  How could I resist?  Since that day, I’ve been writing on my commute to work on a daily basis.  I give Black Mana Studios credit because I now want to leave for work earlier just to have more time to work on the new script.  I’m a massive fan of being able to write anywhere I want.  It’s pretty much outstanding!

However, it does take some getting used to.  There is a major difference between programs like Final Draft (A program I’ve used for 10 years now) and writing on the iPhone.  First you name your new script and then define a scene.  You’re then taken to a separate screen to write the scene.  To return to a previous scene you basically have to go back and choose it from a list.  Every screenwriter on the planet is used to one giant document where any scene can be found by simply scrolling up or down.  This program treats every scene as a separate file.  It’s a minor annoyance but I’m over it.  Especially since it has full import and .fdx export into Final Draft.  With smart phones taking over peoples lives, countless giant companies are jumping on the band wagon.  Will it be long before Final Draft Mobile becomes a reality?  I doubt they’ll charge 8 bucks for it.

Regardless, it’s amazing to me how a simple change in venue can spark creativity.  I never thought I would write on anything other than my desktop PC and my cherished Final Draft 6.5 that I purchased long ago.  (I’m thinking I should upgrade to the new 8.0 but I’m not sold yet.)  Then along comes Screenplay and now I’m free to pull out my latest script at any time and get that crucial scene down on ‘paper’ before I forget it.

I’ve been at work, in a mall and many other random places when an idea strikes.  The inevitable result is a napkin or scrap piece of paper folded in my pocket with so many notes I can barely read them the next day.  It’s a system that works but even paper systems need to be upgraded eventually.  Ah Screenplay.  Thank you for existing.  Now I just have to deal with the problem of nosy subway passengers peering over my shoulder.

PS: Dear Final Draft…  I haven’t forgotten about you.  You are still the exclusive home of the features and rewrites.

[UDPATE] There is a new champion.  Celtx for iPhone.  Click here for my full review