FWIW, gilado ... I've just started picking out the equipment I want/need to build myself a HTPC (home theater PC). I expect it to be able to do the things you list ... play DVD movies or stream content to the TV in my living room, via a HDMI output. While the cost is at least 4x the amount I'd spend on a BluRay player that also streams content (from content providers THEY choose), I have the option of streaming from ANY site I choose. Plus, I suspect my components will be higher quality than those found in the BluRay player. And, of course, I expect to be able to do all of this via a PCLinuxOS installation.
parnote