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AI video tools — scored
Video tools fail on rights and one-more-generation cost. Hold a 5-second brief constant.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-15. Re-run the protocol after major model or pricing changes.
How do you test AI video tools?
- Write subject, duration, camera move, and whether real people appear.
- If people appear, confirm consent and disclosure.
- Generate the same 5-second shot in two tools.
- Score brief match, artifacts, and export rights.
What is the scoring rubric?
| Criterion | Weight | How to score |
|---|---|---|
| Consent if people | Gate | Fail real-person shots without permission. |
| Brief match | 1–5 | Subject and move, not vibe. |
| Export rights | Pass/Fail | Check commercial and watermark terms. |
| Iteration cost | 1–5 | Credits per usable take. |
Which video tool should I start with?
| Tool | Best fit | Best job | Watch-out | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Runway | Gen and edit loops | Creator workflows | Credit burn | Lock the shot list first. |
| Luma Dream Machine | Image-to-video | Motion from stills | Control limits | Compare on the same still. |
| FFCreator | Programmatic edits | Template video | Not a cinematic generator | Different job than text-to-video. |
Learn the craft, not just the tool
Practice the transferable habit in AI for video, then Image generators scored, Synthetic media.
FAQ
What is the best AI video generator?
Runway and Luma are common starting points for short shots. FFCreator is a different, template-shaped job. Compare on one brief.
Can I generate a real person?
Only with consent and a disclosure plan. Deepfake-shaped uses are high risk.