For the most part, yes, each frame is displayed as a discrete entity. NTSC (standard def TV) was an interlaced format so every other line was updated at a time,

For the most part, yes, each frame is displayed as a discrete entity. NTSC (standard def TV) was an interlaced format so every other line was updated at a time, which led to a much smoother feel. There are progressive and interlaced flavors of HD, but the progressive (non-interlaced) is the most popular format for dramas, while I believe some live events are broadcast in the 1080i interlaced flavor of HD.