Vista won't let me repair it! Bad Vista! BAD VISTA!

Problem:
About 10 days ago, I noticed my Toshiba laptop running real hot. Within 2 days, it was shot. I tried Safe mode, then something that I don't recall what it was exactly, but it took a few hours. It was recommended by another tech person. Finally, on MY blue screen of death I read the code '0xc000000f' and began to research it. I created a Vista repair disk & crossed my fingers. I was a bit hopeful when it was at least able to bring me to a familiar process of looking like it was actually booting up. But it was just TAUNTING ME! I've ran this repair program about 10 times. Based on suggestions found here, I've done the following:

Windows 32 bit repair
Memtest86
Created a Vista recovery disc
Safe mode
Safe mode with command prompt
System Restore (no earlier points detected)
and probably a couple other things that I've forgotten already

My results have all been a black screen with a pointer... staring at me maliciously & I think it's laughing too. <---SEE!!!

I don't have a problem with restoring everything, but I really just want to recover my files. I have some media that I wasn't able to back up yet, i.e. pics, music, etc.

Sorry so long winded. ADHD does that to a person sometimes.

Thanks for any help provided.
-Michael

I noticed my Toshiba laptop running real hot. Within 2 days

Possibly, some physical damage occurred.

Your best option is to slave HDD in another computer and see, if you can recover your data.
Alternatively, you can use USB HDD enclosure.

Is that the only suggestion? I was wondering if everyone was in agreement or did anyone have anything else that they would like to suggest? Thank you.