Well, let's see.
Dual layer dvds are pretty damned expensive now, but most newer writers are dual layer capable now, so in the future when the price comes down, you're ready to rock and roll.
For drives, I'd suggest a Lite-On, or NEC, those are the 2 most popular and work damn well.
Software, Dvd Decryptor or DVD Shrink to rip the dvd to your hard drive.
DVD shrink also compresses movies down to 4.7gb to fit onto a single layer dvd disc.
If you use DVD decryptor to rip the movie, you can use DVD2ONE to shrink it to 4.7.
As for burning, Nero Burning Rom is hands down the best. Get that, not the freeware version that comes with some drives, but the full version.
And as for media, Good quality media is a must for making good burns.
Verbatim, TDK, Sony, most Maxell and Memorex are good discs. I've used them all with no problems.
The key is where they were made, if the packagesays Mitsubishi Chemical Company, or Made in Taiwan, chances are you can get some excellent media.
Google for the programs, pm me of you have any more indepth questions.