Avatar

I saw James Cameron’s new film Avatar this weekend. It’s wonderful.

Much has already been said about the film. Response is mostly positive:

• The visual effects are stunning and new.
• “Pandora” is one of the most lush and breathtaking fantasy worlds ever created.
• The 3D is implemented tastefully and enhances the film rather than distracts from it.
• The characters are real enough that you care for their cause and fate.
• The CGI natives of “Pandora” are the best attempt so far to overcome the Uncanny Valley.
• The film has positive messaging, including strong environmental and anti-war stances.

Of course, the film has left some fans disappointed as well. Mostly, they complain about the following:

• The story is predictable and recycled.
• The soundtrack is uninspired.
• “3D glasses give me a headache.”

I fall into the group of fans who loved the movie with a passion, and I’d like to see it again some time. Here some personal thoughts of mine that I hope are not just a restatement of the above consensuses:

• “Pandora” is remarkable. However, I think it will be a challenge to achieve the same diversity of life in this world that - for example - Star Wars achieved with its massive Empire and Rebel planets. This might be due to the fact that only one species (the Na’vi) actually speaks on Pandora, whereas most species have some kind of communicable language in the Star Wars movies. I believe this challenge is not insurmountable, but future films won’t be able to rest on their visuals’ laurels. So they better get to work on adding more rich primary species or other planets.
• This is the first 3D film in which I didn’t get a headache. Much obliged.
• Reading a bit about the struggles overcome and investments required to make the film added to my excitement and enjoyment. (Further Reading: 1, 2, 3)
• Even though it’s almost 3 hours long, I didn’t have to go to the bathroom during the movie.