RyanGambrill said:
If, we cannot find a solution, I assume upgrading my desktop to Windows 7 will give me the functionality I need?
It sure works well for me using the Homegroup network feature, I even spent a good amount of time testing it out. Once the drive is accessed you can see the files on the DVD, clicking on the IFO file will usually start the movie for you.

You should have no problems with that.