@ashiljames connect an external monitor to check if that displays properly. If it does then you know the issue is either your display cable or your LCD. Since we can't see your display and going by your description alone, this sound like a bad LCD.
Use the [document|38760] to work on your laptop. Page 49 shows you how to work on the display assembly. Check the display cable for any shaved wires near the area where it passes through the hinges etc.