Is NSTC the American format? I bought a video from amazon uk a while back and later learned it was something called a PAL format, and I couldn't play it.
There is no NSTC vs. PAL with DVDs. As I mentioned a few posts up, with DVDs you have to pay attention to region coding.
My new laptop, which I haven't unpacked or learned to use yet, is supposed to play DVDs. How does that fit in with what you're saying, s'il vous plait?
The BBC version is most likely Region 2. The DVD drive in your laptop is more than likely set to play US Region 1 DVDs. However, the software that accompanies your drive may allow you to switch regions (mine does). So, definitely check that out before you purchase any European DVDs or you'll simply end up with shiny new coasters.