AutoTag: CLI media tagger for automated movie and TV organization
autotag parses filenames to identify TV episodes and movies, fetches metadata from TheMovieDB, and writes tags and cover art into media files. James Tattersall built the utility as a command-line, cross-platform tool for automated library maintenance, aimed at media enthusiasts and home server administrators. Key capabilities include configurable renaming patterns, subtitle file matching, and recursive directory processing, which suit batch workflows and scripted server tasks.
What does AutoTag do and how it fits into a media workflow?
AutoTag reads file names, queries TheMovieDB via its API, and embeds metadata into MP4 and MKV containers while renaming files according to user patterns. It also renames external subtitle files (.srt, .vtt, .sub, .ssa, .ass) to keep them in sync with video files. The tool processes folders recursively, so a single command can operate across an entire media collection.
Does it slow down your system during a scan?
The tool is lightweight by design and intended for scripted server use, running under the .NET Core runtime on Windows. Because it performs network requests to TMDB and writes tags to container files, CPU and disk activity spike during metadata fetch and file write phases; however, the implementation suits headless servers where jobs run in batches rather than interactive sessions.
Is it safe to use on a production media server?
AutoTag offers a manual tagging mode for ambiguous matches, which reduces the risk of incorrect automatic tagging. It also supports a Windows-safe filename mode that strips characters invalid on that filesystem, preventing move failures when libraries cross operating systems. The tool writes metadata directly into file containers, so users should keep original copies or use their existing backup practice before running large batches.
Do I need technical knowledge to operate it correctly?
The command-line interface requires familiarity with shell commands, regex for custom filename parsing, and scripted workflows for automation. Manual mode eases ambiguous cases, yet configuring renaming patterns and regex parsing assumes some technical skill. The design favors administrators who automate tasks on headless servers over casual desktop users who expect a graphical interface.
Who should adopt AutoTag and where it falls short
For administrators and enthusiasts comfortable with command-line workflows and regex, AutoTag reliably automates large-scale metadata tagging and file reorganization on servers. Casual users who prefer point-and-click tools or who lack a backup routine should look elsewhere, because the tool writes directly to media files and expects scripted operation. Recommended.
