It appears that it has something to do with Progressive
Scan been turned on. Progressive Scan is a feature built in your dvd player, wich by using it, it would give you a better picture//resolution on your tv, you need to use Component or HDMI cables to hook up the dvd to your tv if you want this settings, but if you are using composite RCA cables (Red,White & Yellow) and the Progressive funtion is turned on by accident, it may give you a split screen, black & white, or no picture problems. Also if you are using Component (Blue, Green & Red) cables, if one of them is unplug, the picture can be out of colors, or no picture. Check this things, if not, write back with more details about your set up.