Jahshaka is free!

Jahshaka describes itself as an open-source ‘digital content creation platform’, but its key strengths lie within animation and compositing in 2D and 3D.

In addition to animation and compositing, Jahshaka also has editing features – not to mention the fact you can add effects, too. There are also good asset management and colour correction tools.

Jahshaka has had a difficult recent history; the project – at various times also known as CineFX – stalled, seemed to be dropped, and was then picked up again. Like all open-source software, it relies on a thriving community to prosper.

Its interface won’t be for everyone, and it takes time and effort to learn how to use it in the first place, more so than other compositing tools. But there’s plenty of power here if you’re willing to invest the time, and there are tutorial videos on the website covering the main features. It’s certainly worth downloading and taking for a test drive. Given its recent history, however, you should think carefully before committing to using it for ‘real work.’

Jahshaka is certainly a decent alternative, but be wary of its recent history.