Accessing the US version requires jiggerypokery on your part, depending what you use to view it. On a computer it just needs a simple browser extension whereas on, for example, a games console it needs you to alter your network settings.
It's a bit harsh to write off their film selection as being mostly straight-to-DVD. There are some crackers, old and new, but the catalogue is always playing catchup to the US. If you flick across to their Netflix you get a much bigger selection.
Youtube have developed a new video codec that they say should allow videos to stream significantly faster than they do now. If that means that any broadband connection can stream Blu-ray (or indeed 4K video - something Youtube and Netflix will be offering very soon if not already) without any...