CinemaDrape 2.2

Overview

Staying focused isn’t an easy task, especially when using a computer. There are however special software that try to keep you focused on your work using various methods, but CinemaDrape has a unique way of doing it. When working, the program blanks or dims the whole screen except for the area you want to focus on, removing all distractions. If you need help focusing, this may be the solution.

Installation

You can either grab the portable version which doesn’t need installation, or you can get the setup package and install it in your computer. If you choose to install the program you won’t have a problem completing the procedure without issues, since there aren’t any advanced configuration settings you have to make.

Supported operating systems are Windows XP (requires Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0), Vista, 7 and 8.

Interface

CinemaDrape has no main window or interface of some sort. As soon as you run the program you’re asked to draw a rectangle area which you want to focus on. After doing so, the rest of the screen goes black and you can only see the area you selected. Right-clicking on the black space will open up the menu, from where you can redefine the rectangle, increase or lower the brightness outside the focus area and do a few other similar things. To stop focusing, select Pause from the right-click menu or press CTRL+F11.

Pros

The idea behind it is very simple yet very powerful. You can’t get distracted by anything when the only thing you can see in your screen is what you want to work on. This means that any open browsers, windows, IM messengers, etc. can’t make you lose your concentration no matter what. If you’re watching a video you have to pay attention to (e.g. an online class) you can use CinemaDrape to help you focus by hiding everything except for the video screen. The area of focus can be of any size you want, positioned anywhere in the screen. And to add to the coolness, you aren’t restricted to a single focus area; can have as many focus areas you want. If you want to focus on a window, select “Window under cursor” from the right-click menu.

The default background color is black, but you can define another to color for it. You can also change background opacity, so you can just darken the contents outside the drape area instead of hiding them completely.

Cons

The only con here is that CinemaDrape doesn’t mute sounds, so you can still get distracted by the sound of an instant message. If you really want to focus though, you can just mute all sounds by yourself.

Alternatives

Two alternatives with very similar functionality are Zorro and psKino. Both are free and do a very good job at keeping you focused but CinemaDrape is more modern and has more features than them.

Conclusion

One of the best apps to keep you concentrated. It can boost your focus significantly and help you become more productive and efficient. Recommended download, 5 stars hands down.