laptop <14.1" ~$1200

who makes the best laptop with a screen <=14.1" for around $1200? it will be used primarily for school stuff, watching dvds, and light gaming (just as a time killer). Battery life and weight are very important, as is construction. Based on those requirements, the 13" apple seems to be a good option with windows installed, but i would like some opinions on the offerings from the more conventional companies.

some other things:
must have a dvd drive
preferably a c2d
2gb ram (could be after market)

Thanks

i'm a thinkpad fan. i believe they have a deal running on select T61 models right now.

I must agree IBM/Lenovo has probably the best construction out of all the laptop companies.