Kids Call the Shots In Hollywood

Hollywood is a unique multimedia tool designed to inspire improvisational creative writing, thinking and communication skills. Kids age nine and up become screenwriters -- selecting sets, casting characters, writing dialogue and setting stage direction.

Kids create full-length movies, TV commercials or skits, and then watch their writing and direction come to life as the script is performed by animated characters that talk out loud.

The program features text-to-speech technology; kids' written dialogue, character actions and stage directions are performed on screen by any of 10 characters. Characters can be personalized with dozens of mix and match roles, moods, voices and hobbies.

The CD-ROM supplies over 20 colorful "sets" with a variety of scenes, and includes special background effects and musical interludes. The Idea Machine helps prevent writer's block by providing an endless storehouse of story starters, plot twists and dialogue suggestions. Theatrix Interactive, Inc., Emeryville, CA, (800) 955-TRIX, [email protected]. WM

Featured

  • geometric pattern featuring interconnected circuit-like lines, neural network nodes, and abstract technology symbols

    Innovate Tech X Launches Certified AI Engineer Pathway Program for High School Students

    Tech training provider Innovate Tech X has introduced a new Certified AI Engineer Pathway Program designed to help high school students attain in-demand skills and certifications in artificial intelligence.

  • The AI Show

    Register for Free to Attend the World's Greatest Show for All Things AI in EDU

    The AI Show @ ASU+GSV, held April 5–7, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center, is a free event designed to help educators, students, and parents navigate AI's role in education. Featuring hands-on workshops, AI-powered networking, live demos from 125+ EdTech exhibitors, and keynote speakers like Colin Kaepernick and Stevie Van Zandt, the event offers practical insights into AI-driven teaching, learning, and career opportunities. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to integrate AI into classrooms while exploring innovations that promote equity, accessibility, and student success.

  • laptop with an AI graphic, surrounded by books, a tablet, a smartphone with a graduation cap icon, a smart speaker, and a notebook with a brain illustration

    Michigan Virtual, aiEDU Partner to Expand AI Support for Teachers

    A new partnership between Michigan Virtual and the AI Education Project (aiEDU) aims to accelerate AI literacy and AI readiness across Michigan's K-12 schools.

  • Stylized illustration showing cybersecurity elements like shields, padlocks, and secure cloud icons on a neutral, minimalist digital background

    Microsoft Announces Host of Security Advancements

    Microsoft has announced major cybersecurity advancements across its product portfolio and practices. The work is part of its Secure Future Initiative (SFI), a multiyear cybersecurity transformation the company calls the largest engineering project in company history.