Maybe, but don't slide decks give you the chance to sell what you've built? Maybe you need the time explain the bigger idea of what you're doing when during the hackathon you only completed 25% of it?
But, really, cool? Microsoft is trying too hard. Watching their videos is akin to rogue state propaganda. Does anyone really believe that IE9 is the "coolest" or "most beautiful" browser ever? (Let alone that being an important metric at all.) It's unfortunate that Microsoft thinks we'll actually believe this stuff.
On the other hand, props to them. I wouldn't have known about Alex Clare's "Too Close" track without that commercia.
"Identify mature, experienced people who can give you candid feedback. It's even better if they're your colleagues. Favour a diverse group with people who have different priorities."
This is a great tip. I just realized that my more senior friends mention their "grey beard" older CS friends. I guess I need to pick up some mentors!