What It Does
MonkeyBars generates animated lower third graphics, the text boxes that identify speakers or locations at the bottom of video frames. Built by Ebberts + Zucker, it uses expression-driven masks to automate what would otherwise require manual keyframing and mask animation.
Select your text, choose animation settings, and the script creates the lower third with adjustable timing and movement. Each generated element includes expressions you can fine-tune later if needed.
Key Features
Transition controls. Set In and Out transitions independently. Choose how your lower third enters and exits the frame.
Speed and easing options. Pick from preset speed tiers (including a “Very Short” delay setting added in version 1.03) and easing curves. Control how fast text animates and how smoothly it accelerates.
Movement and direction. Apply inertia-based movement or set static positions. Randomize text and box directions to create varied looks across multiple lower thirds.
Preset support. Save your text and settings as presets (added in version 1.06). Reuse configurations across projects without reconfiguring each time.
Marker-based placement. The script creates lower thirds at your current time indicator position, not at the start of the comp. Place markers where you want graphics to appear, position the playhead, and run the script.
Who It’s For
Useful for interview sequences, documentary work, or any project requiring multiple speaker identifications. The automation helps when you’re building dozens of lower thirds with consistent styling but different text content.
Also relevant if you’re building lower third templates for other editors, the expression-driven approach means recipients can adjust timing without breaking the animation.
Pricing
MonkeyBars uses a pay-what-you-want pricing model. Set your own price when purchasing.
There’s also a trial version available to test the workflow. The script is included in the Monkey Suite Bundle ($674, regularly $842.50), which packages it with TypeMonkey, LayerMonkey, and other tools from the same developers.