Can't playback clips in the event library

I can't playback clips in the event viewer anymore, i.e., hitting l or j or / or the > button, has no effect. The only way to view the clip is to pull the cursor across it (not very good) or drop it on the timeline and do the in/out work on it there (really not good). I can't create keywords this way, or organize anything...

I reinstalled FCP X, updated all my software and for about 1 minute, it worked correctly again, couldn't use the keyboard, but at least the > button worked. Then it just stopped working again.

Working with the latest version of FCP X on a Mac Pro 5.1, quad-core, OS 10.6.8
Does this sound like anything anyone's come across before?

Thanks.

Have you tried trashing your preferences? A re-install won't remove prefs. Use this:

[www.digitalrebellion.com]

Yes, I have already trashed preferences and render files for this project.
I am working with a Canon VIXIA HFM52.