Handbrake and subtitles from a DVD

[raisor]

My usual method for taking DVDs and putting them on my HTPC is to convert the DVD to one single .vob with separate .idx and .sub files using DVDFab HD Decrypter. Then I use handbrake to convert the .vob to Handbrake to a MPEG4. This usually works well as long as there aren't any subtitles involved. So I have some questions and I need some help.

#1 Is there a way to know from the files on the DVD if there are going to be non-English speaking parts for which subtitles which aren't hard coded into the video are going to be needed?

I hate it when I start to watch something and then I'm surprised to learn that the characters are speaking French or Italian at times during the movie or perhaps even a made up alien language. When this happens I have no idea what they are saying because I didn't include the subtitles when I converted the .vob to a MPEG4 using Handbrake.

#2 I am doing something fundamentally wrong when I try to include subtitles when I use Handbrake to convert the DVD files to a MPEG4. I've tried it multiple times. I've read a number of webpages and forum posts on the subject, but I have yet to be able to convert an episode of Game of Thrones with the Dothraki subtitles handled correctly. Can anyone please provide me a link with screenshots and step-by-step instructions on how to (for instance) correctly convert an episode of Game of Thrones?

[jman98]

1) No. Sorry, but that's the answer.
2) Unlikely. We do have some members with infinite amounts of patience who might do what you want, but I doubt it.

I will warn you that Handbrake isn't the greatest tool for working with subtitles so those with real experience on using it for tasks like your will hopefully respond.

[raisor]

I will warn you that Handbrake isn't the greatest tool for working with subtitles so those with real experience on using it for tasks like your will hopefully respond.

So what are the good tools for working with subtitles if handbrake is not the correct tool?

[yoda313]

I have yet to be able to convert an episode of Game of Thrones with the Dothraki subtitles handled correctly.

I don't know anything about this show but it sounds to me like these must be "forced" subtitles. If I am right this is similar to like the subtitles they'd use for Jabba the Hutt in Star Wars. You should use the forced subtitles option.

I'm assuming here that dothraki is not a real world language and is made up for the tv show.

Edit - in the subtitles tab in handbrake select "forced only" once you have your subtitle track selected.

Search the forum for more information on "forced" subtitles.