Windows 7: Laptop frozen before I even log in?

I have an advent laptop with windows 7. When I turn it on, it starts up as usual and then goes to the advent screen and then another screen which gives me the option to either "Launch startup repair (recommended)" or "Start windows normally". Whichever one I select, the same thing happens. It comes up with the normal login screen but not with the user picture or name, just the blue background. I have tried rebooting and waiting for over 15 minutes but it won't change from that blue screen. The mouse still works but there is nothing to click on. I have also tried pressing F8 at the advent screen but none of the safe mode options etc. work. Please help, I want my laptop back!

Try the following link for a possible solution;

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/681-startup-repair.html

Sometimes the symptoms you are experiencing indicate a hard drive failure.

HTH