Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
WHAT SIZE DISPLAY does the MBP have?
Seems I recall that 15/17" models could have problems with the GPU.

Try booting while holding down the shift key (KEEP HOLDING IT DOWN).
This boots into "safe mode".
It also bypasses the discrete GPU (on large-screen models) and uses the CPU's integrated graphics.

Does a safe boot make any difference?
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.