Im in the US and have a very similar problem, It seems to be getting worse, I used to get the Cannot locate the CD-ROM message now that wont even popup. I tries both CDs, I tried the hider even though I dont have a burner nor anything like that. I will put the disk in (labled Install, LOL) and the Start-Reame-Exit screen will pop up so I hit the play button and then nothing happens, Nothing. When I first got it, it would get to the first loading screen the one with 4-5 languges on it then the Cannot Locate CD-ROM error would popup. But now nothing.
I think this problem we are having is getting overlooked, I mean we cant even get the game to run let alone complain about the BlackTiles , Jerky game play, longloads, Wondermovies not working, etc.. I just hope once i get past this point I dont come across all the other problems. My PC is new, its a Pentuim D 2.8 with a gig and the raedon x300 , so I wouldnt think it would be my pc I run all the other new titles just fine, BF2, SWBF2, AoE3 and many others without a problem. My uncle is a wiz he is a programmer for Lockhed Martin, Ill have come look at it and see what he thinks, he is pretty busy so it may be a couple of days before I can post anything about it.