laptop with docking station media will play but no movie

when using an IBM laptop with docking staion connected as well as 22inch Visio monitor i am having a problem trying to view a movie. the player works and I am able to see the movie with the laptop. However, when I change the screen to the Visio monitor and close the laptop monitor I am unable to see the movie at all. only if I leave the laptop open can I see the movie. I am in desperate need of help!

thanks,
Sunshine12B