Actor Survivor Tools

I've been asked about this one few times already, so I think I should do a write up on this. If at any time, any of you try to do this and step-by-step is no longer valid, hit me up and I'll make the necessary updates.

Okay, so here's the dilemma. You're an actor and you just got your hands on the DVD version of the film you starred in. Your director gave you the green light to use it for your reel. Awesome. What now?

IADB to the rescue. I will assume that you have a computer with a DVD drive, if you don't, you can send in your DVD to Walmart and they will do it for you for a small fee, but if you said "yes" to the computer and DVD drive, let us continue.

Step 1 - Free DVD Ripping Software

Most DVDs may not be write protected, but in case they are, here's how we go around ripping the DVD and bypassing the security. First, go to WinX and get their ripper.  

Step 2 - Launch the Ripper

Launch this DVD ripper and import a DVD by clicking "DVD Disc" button. DVD ripper will read and analyse the DVD info to auto check the right DVD main title. 

Step 3 - Converting to MP4

Select your titles, click "to MP4" and finally click "Start"

The file will be set in the "output folder" specified in the middle of the screen. Now that you have your MP4 file, you're ready to move on to the final stage - cutting out the part that you want to use for your reel.  Let's for example assume that you gave an Oscar winning performance at the "Title7" timeline of 5:00 - 7:00 and you want this section cut out...

There are many programs that can do this, but rather than installing even more software on your computer, why not use the online free editor?

Step A - Load the file

Just click "Open File", select your file and wait for it to upload (depending on your connection, it may take a few minutes).

Step B - Cut it

Drag the little blue handles to your desired positions (i.e. 5:00 to 7:00), leave quality at "Max" and format at "MP4" and click "Cut"

Step C - Save it

That's it, you'll be given a "Download" link, click it and your file will download to your computer.

You can now upload your Reel to your website... and don't forget to mark it as your main reel so that your visitors can find it easily.


Tomasz Mieczkowski

About Tomasz Mieczkowski

Tomasz Mieczkowski is the co-founder of IADB.com and all of the related websites for film and tv industry professionals.

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