Multireel

Multireel refers to a video file format that contains multiple video and audio streams within a single container. This allows for various versions of a single piece of content, such as different languages, commentary tracks, or aspect ratios, to be stored together. The format is particularly useful for distributing films or television shows where multiple presentation options are desired.

The concept of multireel predates modern digital formats, originating with physical film reels. Early filmmaking often involved multiple reels to accommodate the length of a movie. In the digital age, this concept has been adapted to file formats that can hold synchronized data streams.

Commonly, multireel files are associated with specific video codecs and container formats. The primary advantage is the ability to switch between these different streams without needing to load separate files, enhancing user experience for features like language selection on DVDs or Blu-rays. Some advanced video editing and playback software can recognize and process multireel files, allowing users to select their preferred stream. The complexity of managing and encoding multireel files can be greater than single-stream videos, requiring specialized tools and knowledge.