So don't get a widescreen monitor? ::scratches head::
The older square-format (3:4 ratio, to be precise) is actually cheaper because, well, most folks don't want them anymore.
Widescreen has quickly become the standard format for new releases.
I don't know what type of content you plan on watching, but most modern movies (even Disney ones for kiddies) on my square PC screen get a letterbox look (black borders on top and bottom) because it was made for a widescreen.
Also, if you learn how to use your DVD players controls, you can usually tell it what aspect ratio to use (4:3, 16:9 wide, etc).
Personally, I have an old monitor attached to a converter that takes in analog RCA composite cables (the tri-color plugs video connection type) so that I could use my Wii on an obsolete LCD computer monitor (when not attached to a projector- playing with other people on a small screen is just impossible! but I don't want to burn out the bulb for just me playing). Way cheaper than buying a dedicated flat-panel TV screen for it.