What It Does
Sortie reorders layers vertically in the After Effects timeline based on criteria like spatial position, opacity values, distance from a point, layer names, or in-points. You can also randomize or reverse layer stacking order.
Note: This plugin was discontinued in 2013. Last updated with bug fixes in version 1.2.20, it remains compatible with After Effects CC and CS6-CS4.
Key Features
Sort by multiple criteria. Organize layers by position (X/Y coordinates), opacity, distance from a specific point, layer name, source file name, or in-point timing. Useful when managing compositions with dozens of elements that need logical stacking order.
Randomize and reverse. Shuffle layer order for randomized animations or flip the entire stack top to bottom. Both operations work on selected layers or the full timeline.
Group or sort in place. Move selected layers together while maintaining their relative order, or rearrange them within their current timeline positions without affecting other layers.
Case-sensitive sorting. Toggle case sensitivity when sorting by layer or source names, giving you control over alphabetical ordering.
Compact panel interface. Designed to dock permanently in your workspace for quick access without cluttering the interface.
Who It’s For
Motion designers working with complex compositions who need fast layer organization methods. Particularly helpful for projects with many similar elements (particles, shapes, text layers) that need specific stacking based on their properties rather than creation order.
Given its discontinued status, newer After Effects versions may have native features or maintained alternatives that handle these tasks.
Pricing
Pay-what-you-want pricing with a suggested minimum of $9.99. Individual users can choose their price; businesses and teams must pay the suggested amount for a valid license.
