What is NotebookLM? Google’s Impressive AI Tool
In this article, we will take a look at NotebookLM. More specifically, we will look at its ‘Cinematic Video Overview’ mode
A brand new update from Google is about to change the game for filmmakers everywhere.
With the latest Cinematic Video Overview feature in Google NotebookLM, the process of creating a film just got a whole lot more "AI-driven". You can now upload a script, a website, a PDF, or even a collection of videos and automatically generate an explainer-style film.
And surprisingly… the results are actually pretty dang good.
While it’s not quite ready to replace a professional film crew just yet, this technology shows exactly how fast AI storytelling tools are evolving. In this article, we’ll break down what this tool does, how it works, and what it means for your creative workflow.
Fill out the form below, and you can download all of the videos examples we have generated to see how they turned out for yourself.
NotebookLM’s Cinematic Video Overview | Video Tutorial
Below is a video where we show how to use NotebookLM’s Cinematic Video Overview and give our thoughts about what this means for the future of filmmaking.
What is NotebookLM? A Full Breakdown
Below, we take a look at what NotebookLM is.
What Is Google’s NotebookLM?
For those who haven't been using it, Google NotebookLM has been a staple research and knowledge tool for a few months now.
It’s designed to let you upload documents, links, and other materials so the AI can analyze and summarize them for you.
Instead of just getting a text summary, NotebookLM can create:
Podcast-style audio summaries
Visual explainers
Cinematic-style videos
Mind Maps
Honestly, those are just a few from the list.
The latest update launched ‘Cinematic Overview Mode.’ This new mode generates videos (which isn’t new), but what is new is that the animation in the videos is way better than just a PowerPoint with a voice over.
How Do You Use Google NotebookLM Work?
The process is surprisingly simple, in typical Curious Refuge fashion, it’s all about working smarter, not harder.
To create a cinematic video inside NotebookLM:
Open NotebookLM and create a new notebook.
Upload your sources. This can be anything from PDFs and text documents to YouTube videos and Google Drive files.
Let the system research the topic.
Select “Video Overview” and choose the Cinematic preset.
Enter a prompt describing the vibe of the video you want.
After that, the system goes to work. Depending on the complexity, you'll have a video ready in about 10–20 minutes.
NotebookLM Screenplay Test
One of the coolest experiments involves uploading a full screenplay. Instead of just research papers, the system was given a script and asked to create a visual overview, basically a high-tech table read.
In about 20 minutes, NotebookLM produced a video that:
Narrated the story
Visualized the scenes
Generated imagery for key moments
Explained the emotional arc of the characters
While it isn't a final cinematic masterpiece yet, it functions as an incredible story overview or visual pitch.
This is going to be a massive tool for filmmakers looking to prototype their ideas instantly.
Where NotebookLM Falls Short
As impressive as this is, the robots aren't taking over just yet. There are still some clear limitations you should know about:
Character Consistency: Characters might change their look between scenes.
Scene Continuity: Visual flow can still be a bit jumpy.
Generic Visuals: Some sections still feel a bit like a high-end PowerPoint.
Directorial Control: You don’t have full control over the specific edit or shot selection—yet.
What NotebookLM is still missing: Human Storytelling
Even with these massive leaps in technology, there’s one thing AI can't replicate: human storytelling.
AI is fantastic at identifying patterns and presenting facts, but emotional storytelling that resonates deep in your soul still requires a human touch.
A powerful story isn't just a sequence of visuals; it’s shaped by human experience, emotional intent, and a unique personal perspective.
At Curious Refuge, we believe AI won't replace filmmakers—but filmmakers who use AI will replace those who don't.
Free Course | Intro to AI Storytelling
What better time to really dig into AI storytelling than right now! Fill out the form below, and join our Free Course, Intro to AI Storytelling.
In the course, we go over some basic AI workflows and give an update on where the industry currently is. Along with that, you get access to our free community. We would love for you to be a part!
Best of luck on your creative journey. :)
