Is it really true that playing DVDs on Linux in the US is illegal? I am refering to movie DVDs you legally bought and want to play in a computer you also legally bought on the OS of your choice Linux- in the United States.

Postings on the Net seem to place this issue in the "grey area." Perhaps forum members based on the US can share some of their thoughts on this matter. I am curious as a friend want to bring a laptop to the US but prefers Linux on it.