I'm well aware of Avid's capabilities !@#$%!, but to say that FCP can't handle large projects, that it's messy, for lazy people, etc, is a load of hogwash. Both of these software packages are used by professionals.
I've edited countless projects that were over two hours long, simultaneously working with 4-5 camera sources in the same timeline. Let me add that you'll at least need a dual-core, for it to run smoothly.
FCP isn't necessarily easier. It's interface is friendlier, that's all.
The rules for colour correcting are always the same, no matter what video software you use.
Again, the only thing that differs is the way it's represented. The calculating formula is almost identical.
"but if you do avid, you can do fcp; however, if you can do fcp you can't do avid."
^Sorry, but I won't even bother commenting on such an infantile claim.
I guess it's just a matter of preference.
Both of these programs can be upgrade or modified to speedup your workflow. For example, you can create your own filters, transitions, menus, actions (batch processing), and much more. It's very important to find your own way of sorting, naming and managing your files to suit all your needs. If you use any of these programs on a regular basis, you'll inevitably discover various shortcuts to make your editing easier and less time-consuming.
As for movies edited with these two powerful packages?
Well, the films you mentioned are just the tip of the iceberg. There's an equally impressive list of movies that you can thank FCP for. Happy editing.
Bertrand. I think that the Canon HG21 that comes out in September, is more in your price range. It's compact and has a full HD resolution (1920x1080). It'll cost around € 1500. Not bad at all.