DVD player software that WORKS

[uncl_nigel]

Hi,

I have this nice 2011 Asus laptop with Windows 7 and I have been having trouble playing DVDs with the Windows media software.
This is not a region problem - the Error Message says something about copy protection and display device.
I have tried VLan but no better.

Any idea of software that
1 - plays the discs whatever the copy protection scheme (I forgot to add that the DVDs in question have always played on the DVD player back home)
2 - is cheap or free (I only use this sort of software ten to twelve nights a year)
3 - -does not invade me with 1001 popups, ads, invitaions to buy this or that extension

I know... I am asking alot.

 

[uncl_nigel]

PS would anything like Jriver do this?

 

[Ian Sampson]

VLC player is one of the best out there.

 

[smegger68]

Media Player Classic Home Cinema version.

 

[Nic Robinson]

VLC

 

[david ellwood]

Vlc is the bestest

 

[shrink]

Vlc for sure

 

[lennyw]

In case you haven't got the hint: VLC

 

[EIffel]

But MPC-HC and JRiver MC18/19 have better picture quality (with the right hardware)

One is free and very flexible, the other is a swiss army knife tool with less control on video playback... both are very good

I'm not bashing VLC (and even played a minor role in it when I was a young Jedai)