A minor correction regarding the screens on the MBP's. Not all models have the LED screen. The 17" model only has the LED screen on the optional hi-res (1920 x 1200) screen.
Regarding the remote, I'd be interested to learn how many MB and MBP users actually use their remote. If it's not a widely used item, that may be the reason it was pulled from the packaging.
I'm sure that Apple will think it's cool to rip DVDs when it is no longer illegal to do so. It is a shame that consumers are not allowed to legally make copies for personal use of their DVDs as they are with their CDs, but those are the laws at the moment. Don't like it? Write your congressman, not Steve Jobs.
Taking Stock of the MacBook Updates
When Will Apple Decide Ripping DVDs Is Cool Too?