Movie Mode or Standard for blu rays, TV etc

Since every TV I've ever owned has had different and usually crappy pre-set color calibrations ("Movie Mode" usually the worst as it seems to brighten everything excessively), I always set the colors, tints, contrast, etc., myself. I start with Video Essentials or a similar program, but I wind up always fine tuning to taste. (Be sure to do it with the room at a darkness level that approximates how you usually watch the television.) Anyway, this is actually easier than it sounds because you just have to look out the window on a bright, clear day, and you can see what real life is supposed to look like. If you have a few movie stills that you know are fairly accurate, adjust the colors accordingly. Facial hues are important for calibrating as well, so a few close-ups help. Or you could spend a small amount of money on a calibration kit or a large amount on professional calibration. (Still, after getting a new TV, I usually spend the next few weeks tweaking the settings until I'm satisfied.)

John