This is a bit off the usual topic of editing and post-production stuff but I think it’s important … to some. Most of us use the Internet Movie Database or the subscription-based IMDB Pro, which lists full credits for projects in development through post production. Some of us use these sites quite a lot. Earlier this year, IMDB updated the interface of the basic IMDB.com site. Unfortunately, this new interface was geared more toward the readers of People magazine than those of Variety. Some—especially those who don’t want to pay the monthly subscription for IMDB Pro—were not happy.

But screenwriter John August decided to do something about it and he developed a web browser extension called Less IMDB. After installation, it attempts to readjust the page a bit to make the layout a bit more friendly to those who care more about credits and less about pictures, fun facts and message boards. Best of all, it’s free and currently works with Safari, Chrome and Firefox (through a script) browsers. Just head to the official Less IMDB page and you’re supported browser will be highlighted for download and install.

There’s even a little On and Off switch that appears in the corner of the browser window after installation so you can toggle Less IMDB on and off at will. According to the FAQ, it doesn’t work with IMDB Pro, as that’s a different type of layout.

One thing the plug-in can’t do is to pull the entire crew listing for a film onto the movie’s front IMDB page. You still have to click the Full cast and crew link to access that. I’m not sure how helpful this tip is (as it requires you to type in the browser address bar as opposed to clicking) but the Culture Kills blog says you can add a/combined to the end of a movie URL to jump right to the full cast and crew. If it’s that easy, maybe something similar can be written into the Less IMDB plug-in!