iMovie Library Won't Open or Is Corrupted
Quick answer
A library that will not open can be tested by opening or creating another library. Restore from Time Machine or an iMovie backup if needed.
Most likely fix: Pick the library manually
How to fix it
Try these in order — the most common fix is first.
1. Pick the library manually
- Hold Option while launching iMovie
- Choose Other Library and select your library
Did this fix it?2. Reset preferences
- Hold Option and Command while launching
- Choose delete preferences
- Reopen the old library
Did this fix it?3. Restore a backup
- Check Time Machine for the library
- Look in the iMovieBackups folder in your user Library cache
Did this fix it?
Symptoms
iMovie opens blank, errors out or the library will not load.
Why it happens
- Damaged library package
- Interrupted export or crash
- Corrupt preferences
This guide also covers
- imovie library corrupted
- imovie won't open project
Still not working?
If iMovie keeps failing, you're not alone. See every iMovie problem users report or the alternatives people switch to.
Have an app idea? Our small team builds any software: web and mobile apps, games, desktop, AI tools. Price agreed together.
Talk to usThe same problem in other apps
All missing or lost data guides →
CapCut Templates Not Showing (CapCut)
Final Cut Pro Missing or Offline Media (Red Warning) (Final Cut Pro)
Filmora Not Recognizing MP4 Files (Filmora)
InShot Video Not Saving on iPhone (InShot)