Depth of Options
As with its predecessor, Gorilla can import your script, whether it’s written as an RTF file or with screenwriting software like as MovieMagic Screenwriter and Final Draft. The selection and use of available tools and options are tremendous, because the software is compatible with so many other things. I love the fact that you can have mini-storyboards that can be printed out and given to all the crew; you can input all of an actor’s information, from representation info to past projects, and have it at your fingertips for auditions and callbacks. Everything you need to put together a production (props, costumes, actors, crew, availability, shot list, shooting schedule, budgeting, etc. etc. etc.) is in ONE place and can be revised, linked together, printed, and handed out in a moment’s notice. This is a producer’s dream. (Well, anything that makes their job easier is a producer’s dream, but that’s beside the point.)
Performance
Once you’ve gotten the hang of the software, it is very easy to continue to use. The click-and-drop features make it simple to move items around or and link them together. Importing video/audio clips, still photos, etc. is an absolute breeze. The minimum system requirements are 256 MB RAM (512 recommended), Pentium 4 processor (or equivalent), and 4 MB of available hard drive, meaning that those with older or smaller computers won’t have a problem running it.
Value
Despite the steeper learning curve compared to Gorilla 3, Gorilla 4 is still an outstanding value. can’t believe that they’re charging this little for this awesome of a product. I did some research to check out how many other companies made software like this. The answer was, not very many, and the ones that do… they’ll put a dent in your wallet that you’ll have to sell a kidney to make up for. Even with the problems I had learning it, it’s wouldn’t really be enough to deter me from buying it; the long-term benefits this software offers far outstrip the short-term frustrations.
Final Comments
Gorilla is an excellent software that will make the job of producing a film much easier. I loved the previous version of this software, which made it all the more disappointing when I encountered the problems I did when working with this one. Keep in mind that it will take a bit longer to learn this one (keep an eye on the text colors!), and it might not hurt to spend the extra $49 for the training DVD.
Ease
of Use
6.0
Depth
of Options
9.0
Performance
9.0
Value
10.0
Overall
Score
8.5
A
powerhouse in management, Kari
Ann Morgan successfully produced a feature length film before
coming to work at Microfilmmaker as Assistant Editor. In addition
to writing for the magazine, she's been successfully working with
various distributors to get microfilmmakers the chance for theatrical
distribution.
