software

[mandela]

what software can i use to add text to
a mpeg file

[Batman]

Any decent video editing software should afford you these capabilities.

[benedict]

FadeToBlack. . .

...will do this (for AVI files only) as well as a host of other fade in and out effects including moving graphic overlays. You'd have to convert back and forth, but it's a nice package even in its freeware version (www.thoughtman.com). In fact, the only limitation in the freeware version is the ability to save uncompleted projects (i.e., you have to cut your new video in one session). but this should not be a problem if all you want to do is overlay an occasional title or two.