What It Does
GG Bunkai converts text layers into shape layers in After Effects, with the option to break them apart in five different ways. This gives you full editing control over text as vector shapes, which is useful when you need to animate individual elements or manipulate paths that text layers don’t normally allow.
Key Features
The plugin offers five decomposition modes to match different animation needs:
Single shape layer. Converts your text into one editable shape layer while preserving the overall form.
Per line. Splits text at line breaks, creating a separate shape layer for each line with centered anchor points.
Per word. Divides text at white spaces and line breaks, creating individual shape layers for each word with centered anchor points.
Per character. Breaks text into individual characters, each as its own shape layer with a centered anchor point.
Per path segment. Separates every structural component of each character (like the counter of an ‘O’ or the stroke of a ‘T’) into individual shape layers with centered anchor points.
There’s also an option to pre-compose each divided element, which helps keep complex decompositions organized in your project.
Centered anchor points in modes 2-5 make it easier to rotate, scale, or animate individual elements without repositioning them first.
Who It’s For
If you’re animating titles that need custom path manipulation, creating kinetic typography where each letter moves independently, or building text-based motion graphics that require more control than text layers offer, this script handles the conversion work.
Pricing
GG Bunkai uses a pay-what-you-want model (suggested minimum $9.99 USD). Individual users can pay any amount they choose, but businesses and teams are expected to pay the suggested price to receive a valid license. This is a one-time purchase with no subscription.