Can't import mpg files into iMovie

Question

Can't import mpg files into iMovie

Hi I just bought a Mac (new user) and wanted to edit some old movies I had saved as an mpg file. However i can't import it into iMovie to edit it which is disappointing as I was looking forward to doing that. Anyone got any suggestions?

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.5.7)

Posted on Jul 22, 2009 7:28 PM

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Answer 1

Niel

Level 10

726,917 points

Jul 22, 2009 7:31 PM in response to rockfordshiraz

Use MPEG Streamclip to convert it to DV and import that.

(45803)

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Answer 2

Jul 24, 2009 6:56 AM in response to Niel

It worked. Thank you.

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Answer 3

Jul 28, 2009 7:58 PM in response to Niel

I am having the same problem. I downloaded streamclip but only the free component. Did you need to buy the part for $20 to get the files converted? Please help. Thanks

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Answer 4

zyfert

Level 3

610 points

Jul 28, 2009 9:08 PM in response to jenefener

Only for mpeg-2 files and the $20 component is a part of QuickTime.
All other file conversions are fine.
MPEG Site: "For MPEG-2 playback and conversion, you need the QuickTime MPEG-2 Playback Component. You can buy it from Apple"
Z

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Answer 5

Jul 28, 2009 10:28 PM in response to zyfert

Another rule of thumb...
If you are converting VOB files from a physical DVD, you need the $20 component.
If you are converting MPG files that are on your computer, probably not.
But MPEG Streamclip will tell you if it needs it.

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Answer 6

Mbiswas

Level 1

0 points

Sep 14, 2009 10:36 PM in response to zyfert

Once the file is converted, is it sufficient to drag and drop into an iMovie event? I tried, and certain conversions still gave me the message "not compatible with iMovie". Others, it appears the files slid into the iMovie event, but when i clicked on that event, they were no where to be found. (says "no matching files"). Any help will be greatly appreciated- I am a newbie and am lost!!

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