MacBook External Monitor Problem - Please help!

I have a MacBook with 2.0Ghz CD and 2Gb Ram. I want to hook this up to my tv (32" LCD) to view tv shows bought through iTunes.

Presumably I can't do this in dual display, but I thought I could use mirror display, but I'm having problems.

I have a DVI to VGA cable and a VGA to mini DVI adaptor so I thought I could just use those and it would hook up correctly.

I know the cable works and this should be possible, because I can connect my wife's iBook using her VGA to mini DVI adaptor and it works great, but I want to use Front Row. I also know the VGA to mini DVI adaptor I have works because I use it with a projector at work.

I'm stumped as to why I can't get any picture at all on my tv? Can you help??

(Oh, I also tried buying a DVI to DVI cable because I also have a DVI to mini DVI adaptor, but the 2 didn't match, they wouldn't connect, is there different types of DVI connections?)

If I need to buy a different cable then so be it, but I'm wondering if this is even possible?