What is an alternate audio commentary? It's just like a regular audio commentary track on a DVD except that you download it instead as a compressed audio track (usually MP3). Often, they are recorded by movie fans or film critics. For more information, read this article. For a list of the best downloadable alternate audio commentary tracks available, see this page.

An alternate audio commentary is meant to be played simultaneously with the DVD for which it was created. An alternate audio commentary can be downloaded (often in several pieces) and played from a playlist on a computer, a digital music player, or a burned CD. Usually, if you press 'Play' on the audio commentary and the DVD at the same time, they will sync correctly. Otherwise, instructions for proper syncing will be given at the opening of the audio commentary. You should turn down the volume on the DVD so you can hear the audio commentary, and you may want to turn subtitles on.

To play the commentaries that I have recorded, you must download them, unzip them, and queue them up in a playlist (or put them on an iPod or burn them to a CD). The MP3s are encoded at 24kbps because that sounds fine with just voice and squishes 1.5 hours of audio into only 15MB. Files are hosted by the totally rockin' OurMedia.

Persona [1966, Ingmar Bergman] [IMDB] [DVD]

This the first alternate audio commentary track I recorded. I did it in a single take, so I "messed up" several times, but I am pleased with the results anyway. On this track I discuss what I think Ingmar Bergman's cryptic masterpiece could mean, talk way too much about Death from The Seventh Seal, and lament the difficulties of recording a commentary. Download

American Beauty [1999, Sam Mendes] [IMDB] [DVD]

An enthusiast's look at was once my favorite movie of all time. I'm joined at halftime by my brother, Paul. We talk about everything but the movie, make inside jokes, mumble away from the microphone, and make bigoted jokes about women. Definitely a must-hear. Download