Your first thought when seeing that MFM is reviewing a web authoring tool might be: "What does Dreamweaver have to do with filmmaking?" As many of you already know, marketing your film is often one of the last things filmmakers think about. However, this is always a mistake since how quickly and effectively you get the word out about your film can make or break your project's chance of success—even before you've shot the first frame. And what marketing tool is more ubiquitous and necessary in our digital age than a web site?
So, when our Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Hanke presented me with the opportunity to review Dreamweaver CS5, I jumped at the chance, excited to see what Adobe's latest version had to offer. Well, I wasn't disappointed. However, there are a few drawbacks. Not the least of which is the somewhat hefty price tag ($399 for a new license, or $199 for an upgrade). Some microfilmmakers might find it difficult to justify this investment, especially if they won't be using it for more than a project or two. The other issue is that even though Dreamweaver CS5 has features designed for the beginning user, there's still a pretty steep learning curve. But if you can drum up the cash and are willing to learn, you'll find a wealth of new features.
Site setup is requested when the information is needed, not before.
Ease of Use
Let me be upfront: Dreamweaver has a definite learning curve, especially if you are new to web development. That said, there are tons of tutorials available for CS4 and I'm sure it won't be long before the CS5 resource flood gates open up as well. So, if you are already a developer with a healthy skill set, or are at least willing to learn, you should be fine. However, for those with limited development experience, or who are intimidated at the sight of Word, you should know that Dreamweaver isn't simply "plug and play".
Your first thought when seeing that MFM is reviewing a web authoring tool might be: "What does Dreamweaver have to do with filmmaking?" As many of you already know, marketing your film is often one of the last things filmmakers think about. However, this is always a mistake since how quickly and effectively you get the word out about your film can make or break your project's chance of success—even before you've shot the first frame. And what marketing tool is more ubiquitous and necessary in our digital age than a web site? 
