My Favorite TV Episodes - Free Streaming Online: Metal Gear Solid: Philanthropy

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Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Metal Gear Solid: Philanthropy - A Highly Recommended Fan Movie

The first completed chapter of Metal Gear Solid Philanthropy, The Overnight Nation, is available to watch streaming or for download (total run time 1 hour, 10 minutes including extra features after the credits). Although you can watch the stream, below, the visual effects and audio are good enough to warrant downloading the higher-fidelity versions.

Click For Download Options

This non-profit fan movie, by Giacomo Talamin and presented by Hive Division, is better than many theatrical releases. The story is engrossing, while staying reasonably true to the source material (with events taking place largely in 2007, after the founding of the anti-Metal Gear group, Philanthropy, presumibly before the tanker incident). The acting is pretty competent, with a few moments seeming a little quirky and forced - but actually very-well emulating the style of Hideo Kojima, which has similar moments. As stated, the effects are very good, considering its grassroots origin. The 3D, matting, lighting, environmental and special effects are all a step above many direct-to-DVD films, and even some lower-budget theatrical releases. The audio is exceptional, except for the levels on a few bits of dialogue - again, emulating a few quirks native to the Metal Gear Solid games. The score is very good, suiting the movie very well. The costumes and makeup are on par with many direct-to-DVD films, and low-budget theatrical releases. The props and weaponry are good, though some of the tactics are a little strange... But - again - fit perfectly within Hideo Kojima's Metal Gear world.

In all, I thought it was really good, and I heartily recommend it to any Metal Gear fan, who is willing to give it a chance. I look forward to additional chapters. It's very apparent a lot of care and work has gone into its production. I hope as much, or more, care and consideration for the source material is taken by the official theatrical production, due out in a year or so.
Screen Captures (click each to see full version):