After taking a closer look, avidemux does indeed do batch encoding (by adding jobs to a job list). So, it seems that the program truly offers everything that I need!

I needed a tool that could add subtitles to .avi files in order to watch on a set-top DVD player. You'd think that this would be a common need, and there would be a slew of linux programs out there to do it, right?

I found that the only good solution was avidemux. It is very easy to use, after a slight learning curve (there are a million things you can do with this program, so it takes a bit of getting used to!).

The program is fantastic. It does exactly what I want, plus there are tons of plugins to do things that I may need in the future. Avidemux is a truly powerful piece of software. I believe that it's one of the best examples of software on the linux platform.

Basically, if there's something you want to do with video, I'd be confident that avidemux offers you the tools and filters you need.

The only wish that I'd have for this program is a way to run batch encodes... for example, I have five .avi files to add subtitles to. I wish that I could set up the first file with the correct subtitle, then put it in a queue, then do the same for every other file I need. Run the batch overnight, and in the morning I'd have seven or eight re-encoded files! This would save me from checking the computer every hour or so in order to set the next file up. Disclaimer: This feature might be present in avidemux as it is... I just haven't found it yet! :)