Questions about programs

[beijing.livejournal.com]

I have a general question about programs. Which ones do you all use? My computer completely crashed a few days ago so I'm stuck with Windows Movie Maker again. I'm looking for a better quality, more professional program however. I've tried Adobe Premere Elements, but it won't install on my computer. I've got a Windows XP HP laptop..

I'm also planning on getting a new computer for graduation, so I'm asking ahead of time if anyone knows of any good vidding programs that work with Mac computers?

Thanks for any help you can give me.