Start here: https://libreelec.tv/ Is a simple Linux installation with KODI. It will "just work" when installed on a NUC and hooked up to your tv.
Then also check out Jellyfin.org to setup a server to share your media on your network.
After you have libreelec and jellyfin, you can install a jellyfin video add-on into KODI.
https://jellyfin.org/docs/general/clients/kodi/
A remote that works 'out of the box' Rii Mini K25 ~$30 https://www.ebay.com/itm/196361631077
@socketwench @vkc If you have a "smart tv" or use a plug-in device like apple, amazon, google, roku there is likely a Jellyfin app you can install through their store. Though I recommend the libreelec/kodi way as its not a device tracking everything you do =)
Lastly, if you do go libreelec/kodi/nuc you will be able to control kodi well with the remote I mentioned, but... not your TV. This is because of HDMI CEC support, this can be solved with a USB device, details here: https://kodi.wiki/view/CEC