Standard DVD/Blu-ray Playback Issues

Computer Playback

If you are attempting to play a standard DVD or Blu-ray from your computer, please be aware that not all computers will support DVD/Blu-ray playback natively. The device will require a DVD/Blu-ray drive and in some cases 3rd party software like VLC Media Player. 

No Disc/Disc Not Detected

If your player displays a "No Disc" message, it may be due to dirt, smudges, or debris on the disc preventing the player from reading it. Gently clean the disc using a soft, lint-free cloth, wiping from the center outward to remove any obstructions.

Region Mismatch

Issue: Player advises there is a mismatch between the disc and player region codes.

Cause: This error would indicate that the player you are using is not compatible with the region code used to create this disc.  Blu Ray and DVD discs are protected by "region locks."  This limits certain discs from being sold or used in areas outside of their intended market.  If your player does not support the region designated for the disc, then you will encounter this error.
 
Resolution: If you look at the back of the player, you should see a region mark that looks like one of the following:
 

 

This should match up with the region listed on the back of the case that your disc came in. If it does not

1. Try playing the disc in a player with a matching region. 
2. Check with your account executive to confirm if Swank carries an alternative region disc.
    

Unable to get Disc to Play

Try to play the disc in another DVD player. If you have purchased a public license from Swank and you cannot get the disc to play in multiple players, you may stream the film from any available streaming platform. Your public license acquired from Swank allows you to use any media format to play the film. The film can be found on many popular streaming platforms, including:

1. Google Play
2. Apple TV
3. Amazon Prime

Note: Swank is limited in the support that we are able to provide for third party streaming services.  If you are using any of the major streaming services and require support, please reach out to the service directly or reference some of our troubleshooting tips linked below: 

Third Party Streaming Provider Support – Swank Motion Pictures, Inc.

Does My Standard Blu Ray/DVD Have Closed Captions

Many BluRay/DVDs will include a CC symbol on the back of the packaging (usually in the features/technical specs section) or on the disc itself if closed captions are available. However, this is not guaranteed or perfectly standardized.

Important Nuance

• closed captions ≠ subtitles:
  • CC often relies on older TV-based decoding methods
  • Subtitles are handled directly by the player
• Because of that difference, packaging might show:
  • CC → closed captions
  • Subtitles / language list → subtitle tracks

Additional Notes:

• Some discs have CC but no clear icon on the packaging
• Others list it in text instead of using the symbol
• For certainty, the only reliable confirmation is playback (menu/options)