What It Does
pt_OpenSesame Server converts After Effects projects into plain text files that you can edit in spreadsheets or integrate with web apps, then automates versioning and rendering through monitored watch folders. Instead of manually opening After Effects to update text, footage, or properties for different versions, you submit text files to a folder and the server processes them automatically.
The server creates detailed logs, handles errors, can restart after failures, and lets you abort renders or prioritize tasks remotely. You can run multiple computers with the server to process submissions simultaneously, or have one machine prepare projects for a render farm. It’s compatible with the After Effects Render Engine for high-volume production.
Note: You need the separate pt_OpenSesame plugin to set up project templates before using the server.
Key Features
Watch folder automation. The server monitors designated folders and processes any submitted text files containing project changes. Submit files from a network, mobile device, database, or web app.
JSON and spreadsheet workflows. Export templates as JSON for web app integration or as TSV/CSV files for editing in Excel. The JSON API lets you generate web forms or connect to databases for dynamic content generation.
Helper script support. Run custom scripts before or after renders to extend functionality. The server includes built-in helpers and works with scripts like pt_ImportSubtitles for automated subtitling. You can write your own helpers if you have basic After Effects scripting knowledge.
Editable project elements. Change text, footage, property values, layer switches, render queue items, comp names, and more through the text files. The server preserves keyframe easing when modifying timing.
Render farm integration. Save modified projects for processing on a render farm instead of rendering locally. The After Effects Render Engine compatibility makes it suitable for scaling up production.
Error handling and alerts. The server can automatically restart and continue after failures, send email alerts when problems occur, and log all activity for troubleshooting.
Who It’s For
Studios producing high volumes of versioned content like localized ads, data-driven graphics, or social media templates benefit most. If you’re generating dozens or hundreds of variations from a single template, or need to integrate After Effects output with web services or databases, this server setup makes that possible without manual intervention.
You’ll need some technical setup knowledge and potentially scripting skills for custom workflows. The developer offers installation support, but additional help with workflow setup, template creation, or helper script development requires a separate service-level agreement.
Pricing
Floating Server License costs $499.99 as a one-time purchase. A free trial is available. The license allows deactivation from your account page.
An optional Service Level Agreement (SLA) is sold in monthly blocks for additional support, helper script assistance, manual deactivations, or priority feature requests. SLA pricing: $249.99/month, $224.99/month for 3 months, $187.49/month for 6 months, or $124.99/month for 12 months.