iDVD '08 (#3): Trouble with older themes

We previously noted and issue where iDVD '08 fails to launch, with the application icon bouncing in the Dock a few times, then showing no further progress. The fix we noted for that issue -- which involves eliminating apparent theme conflicts by deleting all items from the /Library/Application Support/iDVD and ~/Library/Application Support/iDVD/Installed Themes -- has proven successful for a number of readers.

Now readers are reporting another issue involving old themes, whereby they are not able to use older themes without iDVD crashing.

One MacFIxIt reader writes:

"I had the same problems when trying to launch iDVD. Solved using the method described at MacFixit. But now a new problem has emerged. iDVD launches fine (on 10.4.10 system), but when I select some of the older themes, I get a spinning beachball of death and the theme never actually loads. One example of this is the 'Memories' (aka droplet) theme from the version 5 set. Only recourse is to force quit."

It now appears that this issue can be resolved via the following process:

• Launch iDVD and make sure you can create a new project (don't select an old theme). If not, apply the aforementioned fix first.
• Quit iDVD and insert your iLife 08 DVD.
• Re-launch iDVD '08.
• Open your project that contains your old themes, then attempt to change to your old themes. An item or items should be grayed out. Click on the items that are grayed out. iDVD will ask you if you want to install from the iDVD disk. Indicate yes then quit iDVD and it will install any old themes that are not on your system.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• iDVD '08 (#2): Quits immediately after launch, more fixes
• iDVD '08: Fails to launch -- fix; Kernel panic

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