Yes to both. I am saving to a memory card. (Which I've had no problems with pictures or music on). And I tried a battery pull just now. Still the same issue.
Could very well be corrupted software with the OS. Might want to try a hard reset (Wipe Handheld) to see if that resolves it. Also, before you do that, check your software on the phone (Options --> About) 4.3.X.XXX.
If you're using a Verizon Wireless Curve, the current "released" software is 4.3.0.127 from our website vzam.net/blackberry
If you have this or high, then just Wipe Handheld, make sure to backup your data prior to doing it. If you need to update the OS, then download that package from the website and install after you have installed the Blackberry desktop manager. Then you plug in your phone and it will pop up and say there is an update available. Choose update and it will perform the backup for you AND update your device.
Hopefully at least wiping your handheld will fix the issue.