I noticed that Microsoft have released a new update for the backwards compatibility functionality on the Xbox 360. Despite the fact that one game I'd like to play wasn't mentioned in the update notes (Manhunt) I gave it another go.
Previously, Manhunt wouldn't run, and would report an error along the lines of "this game isn't compatible with your current resolution". Having applied the latest update, the error is "your VGA cable doesn't support the PAL-50 mode that this game requires. Use a different cable". Thanks Microsoft, are you going to buy me a screen that supports that different cable too?
So Microsoft appear to be admitting that the VGA cable and PAL 50 games won't work in backwards compatibility mode. Which, in my book, is a poor show.