Windows Slideshow and Photo Gallery

When trying to open windows photo gallery I get a a blank window that can
only be gotten rid of by ending the process. I don't get any pictures or
controls of any type.

For slideshow, when I go into my pictures folder and try to select a
specific group of pictures and then click slideshow at the top of the frame,
nothing happens. Even when not selecting a specific group of pictures,
nothing happens. The window flashes like it is trying to start up the
slideshow, but still nothing.

Any help is greatly appreciated as it would be nice for Vista to do what it
is supposed to without having to download or buy 3rd party software.