When is it too late for Pulldown??

[GMaq]

Hi,
I am converting my xVCD collection to MPEG-4, So far I am pleased with the results I am getting, but recently reading some threads on Pulldown etc. I am wondering if these MPEG-1 files that are currently 29.97fps (due to a lack of experience at the time) and from DVD sources originally can have Pulldown applied to them or if the damage has already been done. It would be nice to not have to waste bitrate on repeating frames. I am using VirtualDub MPEG-2 and 3ivX @ 95%CQ for the conversions. Any tips on how to do this would also be greatly appreciated.

[jagabo]

Look at your source xVCD with VirtualDubMPEG2. Step through frames where thers is a moderate amount of movement. If you see a pattern of 4 unique frames followed by a duplicate you might be able to remove the duplicate. If you see frames that look like double exposures (blend deinterlaced) you're pretty much stuck.

Duplicate frames don't cost much of anything when using MPEG 2 or 4 codecs. The exception would be when the video was recorded off air of from a VHS tape. The noise makes the them non-duplicates. On the other hand, if you are watching on a computer you'll get smoother playback if you eliminate the duplicate frames.

[GMaq]

Thanks jagabo,
I'm doing some of these files for the second time already partially because of my Obsessive Compulsive nature and partially for better compliance for playback, I didn't want to discover that pulldown was going to make a big difference in the final result. Sounds like it isn't worth the trouble for sure, It's amazing how some minor colour, brightness and contrast adjustments can revive these MPEG-1 files though. Thanks again for your response.