Problem: Camcorder mini dvds & macbook pro can't play them?

I use imovie to edit my video, but my camcorder doesn’t have a firewire port – it uses mini dvds. Should I get an external mini dvd player? Do all external dvd players play mini dvds too? Are they all able to connect into my 9-pin firewire port? I looked online, but all the specs are a bit overwhelming. Help please!