Linda- The Blu Ray player in the PS3 is a bit of a kludge when it comes to controlling the disk. However the biggest advantage of the PS3 is that it is the most compatible of all players. The reason why this is so is simple. The PS3 is used by all BluRay producers to screen their disks prior to release. Therefore the Disk has been tested to play on the PS3. With all other players, you may get an issue with needing a software update to play and the mfg hasn't yet made this ready.
BluRay disks use java scripting language for it's menu design operations and every time Java gets updated you usually require a firmware upgrade in your player. Sony PS3's are updated in advance of the disk release while many manufacturers are often behind the curve. The good news is that as time passes this delay is less and less. PS3 will poll the internet every time you turn it on. Not all players can do this and most people don't even connect a player to the internet. If you are concerned about compatibility- and just want a player, then consider Oppo as a Blu Ray Player. Same player as the guts of a Lexicon high end player and this is the second most common screening player the studios use so Oppo is rather current on Java updates too if you have the Oppo plugged in to the internet. It will also poll the server for updates every time you turn it on and or insert a new disk. For real trouble free playing, this is what you want.
If you do decide to get the PS3, you won't be unhappy but I would recommend also getting the IR remote control kit because you can eliminate most of the previously referenced kludge factor by avoiding having to use a game controller for DVD use. I have the IR controller kit for my PS3 and have it programmed into my Universal remote. While not perfect, it makes your PS3 work almost as good as a set top player for disk control.