Reviews written by Nathaniel Stevens

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PlayStation 3
 

The adventure continues in great fashion

Overall rating: 
 
8.6
Gameplay:
 
8.0
Presentation:
 
8.0
Value :
 
9.0
Fun Factor:
 
9.0
Tilt:
 
9.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 16, 2010

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Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening quenched my thirst for a sequel, though it was just an expansion pack. There's plenty of improvement from Bioware here, but more importantly the story continues and it's still a fun ride. If you liked the first then you'll like the expansion pack.

At the end of it all I want more of this game. I want another Dragon Age and I want it now!

Videogames

Gameplay The gameplay has improved with new ways to customize and new items to obtain, but that's not the reason you want this game. The story continues where the last left off and it's a seamless connection between the two. It's just as interesting and intriguing as the first.
Presentation Same time of presentation, though there were some visual bugs here and there.
Value It's $39.99, $20 cheaper than the main game, and it holds its own. It's worth the money and the time.
Fun Factor I had a blast with the game, though only a 10-15 hour blast. It's an expansion pack and that's about the right amount of time for one. Still, I want more.
 
Blu-Ray
 

It is more wonderful than others are giving it cre

Overall rating: 
 
8.0
The Film/Show:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
10.0
Extra Features:
 
7.0
Tilt:
 
8.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 16, 2010

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I know this film isn't for everyone. It's a bit dark and depressing, but by the end of it you'll understand why Goldin and Broderick chose to do it. It's a good film that shouldn't be ignored if you're looking for a little inspiration in your life. It's even better on Blu-ray.

Movies

The Film/Show The movie doesn't hold back from its opinion, much like the lead character. I like the honesty and the overcoming of Ben Singer's situation.
Presentation I love the presentation. Again, Magnolia Home Entertainment seems to know how to do things when it comes to transferring film to Blu-ray.
Extra Features I really like the set of features they've included. There's enough here to compliment the movie.
 
Blu-Ray
 

You may not want to hear about the Morgans....

Overall rating: 
 
4.8
The Film/Show:
 
3.0
Presentation:
 
8.0
Extra Features:
 
7.0
Tilt:
 
1.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 14, 2010

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Last updated: March 14, 2010

I simply didn't like the two leads picked for the Morgans. Grant and Parker have zero chemistry and it simply ruins what could have been a funny story. This is a rare example of bad casting and something that shouldn't happen on a major motion picture. Still, the Blu-ray has some redeeming values in the picture/sound and the special features. If you can live through the lack of chemistry then this move might entertain you and surprise you.

For this reviewer that simply wasn't the case.

Movies

The Film/Show The story is great, but the acting just dismantles it all. If you put different actors in there then it might work much better. The two leads simply weren't convincing.
Presentation The HD video is quite excellent. The audio on the Blu-ray is equally as impressive.
Extra Features Surprisingly the features were damn good. It's shocking in comparison to the movie itself. Good commentary and great features make the extras worth your time.
 
DVDs
 

Sky high!

Overall rating: 
 
8.0
The Film/Show:
 
9.0
Presentation:
 
7.0
Extra Features:
 
7.0
Tilt:
 
9.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 14, 2010

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Out of all the releases on DVD from Miyazaki, this one is certainly one of the more impressive. Castle in the Sky blends multiple messages together into a very well crafted story led by strong characters. You'll fall in love with Castle in the Sky and beg for it to release on Blu-ray. Enjoy it, the ride is great.

Movies

The Film/Show One of the more complicated and creative stories that has come out of Studio Ghibli. It's not as subtle as the other kid-friendly films and there's no reason for it to be.
Presentation Good DVD presentation, especially in the sound department. Much like the other recent releases you get a full range of language tracks with subtitles.
Extra Features Just like the other Miyazaki films I reviewed, there's insight here. I wish there had been just a bit more to it.
 
DVDs
 

Certainly the right altitude, but not over the top

Overall rating: 
 
7.0
The Film/Show:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
7.0
Extra Features:
 
7.0
Tilt:
 
7.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 14, 2010

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If you're a Miyazaki fan then you need Kiki's Delivery Service. It's cute, cool and most of all triumphant in its message. There's enough charm here, and humor, to warrant a purchase if you've never seen the film. For those of you that own the film then you may want to rent it first.

Movies

The Film/Show The story is very different than the more recent epic films that Miyazaki has put together. It's subtle, kind, kid friendly and just enough to get the message across for someone fearing change.
Presentation Good DVD presentation.
Extra Features Much like the other sets, there's good stuff here, but it's not over the top great.
 
DVDs
 

A great neighbor to have

Overall rating: 
 
7.8
The Film/Show:
 
8.0
Presentation:
 
7.0
Extra Features:
 
7.0
Tilt:
 
9.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 14, 2010

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If you love Miyazaki films then you'll love My Neighbor Totoro. If you have kids then you'll especially appreciate what Miyazaki has done to remind you how great, imaginary and wonderful they can be (even when they do silly things). A great story with creative imagery that let's you know how great Miyazaki truly is when it comes to entertainment.

Movies

The Film/Show A magical story that really captures the essence of what it means to be a child. Subtle, fun and vibrant.
Presentation Good DVD quality that certainly isn't close to BD, but still darn good.
Extra Features Good features that are regretfully few, but again good nonetheless.
 
Blu-Ray
 

Clash of Entertainment

Overall rating: 
 
7.3
The Film/Show:
 
9.0
Presentation:
 
10.0
Extra Features:
 
1.0
Tilt:
 
9.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 10, 2010

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Last updated: March 10, 2010

If you're someone that likes Greek Mythology or someone that could use that in their class (or college course) you should seriously consider looking into Clash of the Gods. Despite the lack of special features, I haven't run into anything that can rival what has been done here.

Movies

The Film/Show I love how A&E Home Entertainment presents the stories. They do it in an exciting way, but also carry along education with that same message. Any teacher, professor or myth lover out there would love this set.
Presentation Top-notch, just like The Universe Blu-ray.
Extra Features None, regretfully.
 
Blu-Ray
 

Magical, regardless of rough waters

Overall rating: 
 
8.5
The Film/Show:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
10.0
Extra Features:
 
9.0
Tilt:
 
8.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 10, 2010

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Ponyo is a wonderful journey and the love story, while simple, is still pretty remarkable to watch. This is yet another example of why Miyazaki is one of the best filmmakers around. He tells a story with very established, memorable characters and entertains until the end. You'll walk away smiling from the Blu-ray version of Ponyo and wishing that Miyazaki would make something else.... quickly.

Movies

The Film/Show While not my favorite of the Miyazaki films, this certainly is in the top three. It's a simple story that is magical as it is beautiful. A little too fast in comparison to other Miyazaki films.
Presentation Spot on perfect. Love the colors and audio on Blu-ray.
Extra Features A ton of things for you to go through and gain insight about. I think you'll enjoy finding out how the movie was done and what other things you can do to keep the entertainment flowing.
 
DVDs
 

That's all folks! Seriously, there probably wasn't

Overall rating: 
 
7.0
The Film/Show:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
7.0
Extra Features:
 
4.0
Tilt:
 
10.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 09, 2010

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Last updated: March 09, 2010

The Brothers Warner is an insightful tale of how four brothers stuck together to make one of the best studios in film history. They stuck by their beliefs and what they knew to do so. Cass Warner's tale is weaved with triumph and tragedy, but wavers just slightly in continuity. Regardless, it's still a very interesting DVD that any filmmaker, film professor or movie lover will appreciate.

Movies

The Film/Show I love the interviews and moments that Cass Warner strings together to make her story of the Brothers Warner more credibility. I wish they transitioned better.
Presentation Good presentation for a DVD.
Extra Features No features, regretfully.
 
PlayStation 3
 

A single rather than a double, but still better th

Overall rating: 
 
7.4
Gameplay:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
7.0
Value :
 
8.0
Fun Factor:
 
9.0
Tilt:
 
6.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 08, 2010

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Last updated: March 08, 2010

I really think MLB 2K10 falls short this year in comparison to MLB 10: The Show. The batting and fielding is certainly easier and less of a burden in comparison to SCEA's game, but the offense is incredibly unbalanced (in your favor), which makes the game less realistic. If you're a serious baseball fan then you may want to try MLB 10: The Show, but if you're looking for something to jump right into then this might be up your alley.

Videogames

Gameplay While I can't say much for the pitching, the batting and fielding is quite amazing. It's simple and fun, and while completely outrageously overblown, and truly makes the experience a little bit better. Definitely not for the seasoned baseball gamer, but rather for the rest of us.
Presentation I wasn't really pleased with the presentation and the gap between Sony's puppy and this one simply is too big to ignore.
Value If you are looking for some fun without the realism then you're going to have a blast with MLB 2K10. If you're looking for something more locked down and true to baseball then you may want to rent before you buy.
Fun Factor It's fun, but only if you're looking for something with a little more substance then MLB 10: The Show might be a tad better. You'll love the online play of MLB 2K10, though.
 
PlayStation 3
 

At least a double, but not quite a home run

Overall rating: 
 
8.2
Gameplay:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
10.0
Value :
 
8.0
Fun Factor:
 
8.0
Tilt:
 
8.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 08, 2010

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So how do I know this is the most realistic game of baseball on a next gen console? The Reds completely suck! That's right, this Reds' fan expects sloppy pitching, horrible hitting and MLB 10: The Show doesn't disappoint. In all seriousness, MLB 10: The Show takes baseball fans somewhere they were dying to go and does it in such style. Everything about this game screams perfect, but it all depends on what type of baseball fan you are and how much patience you're willing to give.

Videogames

Gameplay While the pitching is the same, the frustrating hitting controls might put off some gamers. For hardcore baseball fans it will be right up your alley. Tough as nails and every bit of what baseball truly represents. Patience is a virtue and the payoff is good.
Presentation Without a doubt the best looking baseball game to date. The sights, the sounds, the parks, the crowd and the announcers make this best experience on a game system.
Value While frustrating on the offensive side of things, the new modes, perspective and updated rosters (and Futures Games) makes this package worth the $59.99 you would pay.
Fun Factor This is the purest form of baseball on a gaming system. It's frustrating, but accurate and worth all the emotions you may feel trying to get use to it.
 
Blu-Ray
 

Doe!

Overall rating: 
 
6.5
The Film/Show:
 
4.0
Presentation:
 
9.0
Extra Features:
 
8.0
Tilt:
 
5.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 07, 2010

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I was hoping for more of Napoleon Dynamite with Gentlemen Broncos, but what was delivered wasn't even close. Sure there are witty moments and oddball sections of humor, but the story underneath finds itself segmented and attached together completely wrong. The opportunity was there, but it was an opportunity that was missed.

Good Blu-ray though with some very good features included.

Movies

The Film/Show The story didn't have the same charm as previous Jared Hess films. The written main character was weak at the knees and the story was severely chopped up to the point where it didn't connect very well. Napoleon Dynamite and Nacho Libre are far superior.
Presentation Excellent presentation with visuals and audio. The audio has a superb soundtrack that fits the story well.
Extra Features The features are quite good. You'll find some great insight and intentions, as well as outtakes. The movie is better with the features, but not completely fixed.
 
PlayStation Portable
 

The armor is a lot more solid this time around

Overall rating: 
 
7.8
Gameplay:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
8.0
Value :
 
8.0
Fun Factor:
 
8.0
Tilt:
 
8.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 04, 2010

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Having reviewed plenty of AC titles in the past, I have found Armored Core: Silent Line as something refreshing and refined. There's plenty to love about this game, but the difficulty may turn gamers off. If you have enough time with it and you make some 'gamer' adjustments, you will find a very deep experience waiting for you on this PSP title.

Videogames

Gameplay While the level of difficulty is definitely up there, AC:SL brings some very refined gameplay to a title that usually is bit more messy. It will take you time to get use to the controls, but once you get there it's a fun ride.
Presentation Excellent presentation on the PSP. Closer to the PS2 look of things with some jagged character models, but nothing bad. Big environments and easy to see enemies make this game worth your eyesight. Plus, the music and sound effects are damn good.
Value You get a variety of modes and a large library of AC customizable options. There's plenty here to love and the fact that the story is intact and coherent makes the deal even sweeter.
Fun Factor I had a blast with this game, even though I wanted to kill it when I first started to review it. Give it time and give yourself an adjustment period with it and you'll find plenty of fun.
 
Blu-Ray
 

Clash of Classic

Overall rating: 
 
7.8
The Film/Show:
 
7.0
Presentation:
 
9.0
Extra Features:
 
6.0
Tilt:
 
9.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
March 01, 2010

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Last updated: March 01, 2010

For any moviegoer that was born or raised in the 80s this is a must-have for your collection. Sure the story is a bit hokey and the effects are certainly dated, but there's something really cool about the 'original' Clash of the Titans that will make you warm and fuzzy. It could be the sweet and sour chicken sauce pouring from Medusa's head or it could be Bubo the mechanical owl. Regardless, you'll enjoy this classic on Blu-ray.

I know I will.

Movies

The Film/Show The movie has aged a bit thanks to the last 30 years of special effects upgrade, but that doesn't take away the epic 'classic' feel to the story. Plenty to like here and plenty to appreciate, especially if you grew up with the original film.
Presentation The Blu-ray looks great and sounds even better. Warner Home Video did what they could to make this HD upgrade worth your time/money and they didn't fail. There is quite a bit to love about the Blu-ray in terms of visuals. In the very first scene when you see the coffin being carried out to the sea you will fully understand how much detail they did with the transfer. Certainly there is some graininess, but you'll forgive them.
Extra Features I was mostly disappointed with the special features. I wish there was a bit more. I did like the booklet packed in with the movie, as it broke down the story and the characters. I particularly like the portion of it with the Ray Harryhausen piece. Very interesting stuff.
 
Blu-Ray
 

That universe is a pretty one

Overall rating: 
 
8.8
The Film/Show:
 
9.0
Presentation:
 
10.0
Extra Features:
 
6.0
Tilt:
 
10.0
Nathaniel Stevens Reviewed by Nathaniel Stevens
February 24, 2010

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Last updated: February 24, 2010

I'm sad that I hadn't gotten the first three seasons of this on Blu-ray because this is the only fitting way to watch it. It's gorgeous, informative and worth your time. Plus, it's something you can watch with anyone. A ton of information packed into entertaining one hour blocks.

Movies

The Film/Show I knew this was good when my kids invaded my reviewing space (not related to actual space) to watch it with me. Informative, speculative and entertaining.
Presentation Top-notch presentation with excellent animation and great explanations from experts in the field (in very sweet 1080p high-def).
Extra Features Certainly the weakest part of the package, as you get just two bonus features. How spoiled am I?
 
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