Linux mpeg encoder/compressor... does it exist?

[Daymare]

I am looking to re-encode about 1500 mpeg videos into smaller files. Currently, my plan was to download them all to my computer reencode/compress and reupload and overwrite. But what would be great is if I could find a linux or SSH type program or script that could reencode the videos for me so I don't have to download or upload, they can just get converted on the server! So if anyone knows of any, or has experience with a program that does what I'm talking about, please let me know!

my icq is 912570 or you can just re to this thread, thanks

[Helix]

Video for Linux resources
http://www.exploits.org/v4l/

[Daymare]

neat link, I'll look into it.

[RichCashMike]

mencoder, part of mplayer
http://www.mplayerhq.hu

ffmpeg
http://ffmpeg.sourceforge.net/index.php