As far an fan-made films usually go, its often an embarrassing affair. Low budget productions coupled with adolescents who figure they can achieve more then they set out to do. There’s a reason why the high-gloss of Hollywood production or the careful craftsmanship of independent features is not easy to emulate. It takes careful training, intense logistical organization, and often times some sort of studio backing.
I wouldn’t go so far as to rave over Philanthropy or even cite it as an example opposite of this dilemma, but it comes close. Created by actual film students who seemingly have the abilities to work in the commercial industry, the film overall is quite impressive and surprising. The production level emulates a mid-level TV show which is quite impressive as is. Acting seems professional as well as the costuming, staging, and mise en scene.
The Secret World is an upcoming MMORPG from Funcom that will be released for the XBox 360 and PC. It uses the same engine as Funcom’s previous MMO, Age of Conan and will lack the traditional “level grinding” system of so many games of this particular genre. It apparently doesn’t even have a class system and is rounding up to be a more casual venture then serious gaming.
