Assuming you're trying to do this legally, using Macromedia Flash and Fireworks is both an expensive option and Flash 8 has a steep learning curve. You would be better off looking at a more basic program such as SWF Quicker which is specific flash editing software, or something more general like AVS Video Editor which can edit a large number of formats. Both these programs are considerably cheaper than Flash 8 and Fireworks.
Even if you wanted to look down the less than legal route, you will find that these programs will still be much easier to use than Flash 8 and Fireworks, and a much smaller download. | 
flash editor 
Linear Mode
