I have the matte BMF and it does look the part, but I don't think it handles as well. It also doesn't give that brushed look of real trim, so there's still a trade-off. One that I, personally can live with.
Check Facebook if you have an account if you want to see the hood. I bought one just last month, and agree that it looks like it came from the kit. Total with S&H was $8.75.
Hot water does work. Have some cold water handy to dunk it in after you get it straight so it doesn't try to return to its original shape. I suggest reading other posts about resin cars. I just finished my first, and its not like working with styrene at all. Remember to only use superglue because solvent based glues for styrene simply won't work. Good luck.
For my WB Camaro I decided against the plain cowl induction hood and decided to trim it down a bit and add a ZL-1 scoop. I thought I had it fitted perfectly but it seems to keep trying to go back to the last shape it had.
This may be the best I get. Magnets may be my next choice!
I also assembled the engine block and painted it today. Moving right along!