#!/bin/sh
xrandr -s 800x600 # resize so that cloning goes smoothly
xrandr --output S-video --set load_detection 1
xrandr --addmode S-video 800x600
xrandr --output S-video --mode 800x600
# xvattr -a XV_CRTC -v 1
vlc -f $*
echo Done playing $*
xrandr -s 1024x768


xrandr is a program that modifies your display dynamically. I guess this is all doable with configuration, but the infamous X conf file appears to be deprecated, so whatever. I use xrandr anyway to change resolution, because the output of the screen is duplicated onto the TV, and I want it to fit without being cropped.

So, first the script sets the resolution to the TV-compatible 800 width by 600 height; next the S-video commands tell the OS to look for the TV and set it up – and then my script passes its arguments (my movies) to the vlc media player. Once vlc quits, the resolution is restored.

There’s a commented out command that uses an utility called xvattr to change whether the X-Video extension (XV) should apply to the default output (the computer screen) or the TV – with when you see video on one, you just get a blank window on the other. Thankfully, I can tell vlc to show video using regular X server video instead of the XV extension, so nevermind that. I don’t see any noticable difference in the display behavior, which is pretty bad in either case – whenever windows appear in a shot, I see blocky video boxes on the TV. I think the proprietary driver didn’t have this problem.

And because my LCD screen burnt out this Saturday (a year beyond its warranty), I’m using a huge and scratchy-screened old CRT, which makes old-school oomph noises whenever it switches resolution.

G.I. JOE trailer in HD

For a visually more traditional take on G.I. Joe, there’s the Adult Swim animated series G.I. Joe: Resolute, written by Warren Ellis and available in full on YouTube. This was pretty OK, except the bits with the gimp ninja, which bored me to tears.

via Liz Hand at Inferior 4+1.

[via Lucius Sheppard]:

Push is Jumper with telekinesis,  If you saw Jumper you know this is not a affirmative statement.  It’s a movie full of quick cuts, special effects, and young lads with exciting haircuts…and that’s about it.

Some cool superpower usage here, though.