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Author: Jen Koch
Date: 2009-12-29
Avatar is essentially a trite, predictable storyline wrapped in glowingly beautiful packaging, but it can be forgiven for paraphrasing the Native American struggle in a science fiction setting. Sometimes heavy-handed with its eco-friendly message, James Cameron's ultra-expensive winter blockbuster is nevertheless a tropical vacation from the seasonal blahs and needs to be seen on the big screen.
 The spectacular cgi exceeds expectations on all fronts - it's impossible to tell what is filmed and what was created on a computer screen. Even the Na'vi - the beautiful and catlike natives of Pandora - seem suspiciously lifelike for creatures that our brains tell us cannot possibly exist in nature. Or any studio makeup department, for that matter. Cameron's world is lush with color and rich with small details that invite closer inspection. The Na'vi culture is fascinating, multifaceted and easy to foster an emotional attachment in the viewer. If Cameron fails at storytelling, he is a master at creating a world solidly stitched together with history, folklore, tradition and ceremony. The Na'vi seem just as real and empathetic as their human co-stars in a way that has nothing to do with computer graphics.
The human cast can't be overlooked, however. Sam Worthington ("Jake Sully"), Sigourney Weaver ("Dr. Grace Augustine"), Michelle Rodriguez ("Trudy Chacon") and Joel Moore ("Norm Spellman") are each strong actors in their own right and offer up a Grade-A performance with plenty of team chemistry. The acting quality and relatively high-profile cast saves this flick from its trite and familiar ScyFy channel movie plotline.
The Verdict: This movie is a must-see in the theater for anyone, unless you're allergic to science fiction themes. Even with a mediocre storyline and a few plot holes, the Na'vi culture and the spectacular filming make it worth overlooking the movie's problems. The political overtones in this movie - specifically commentary on human greed and the destruction of earth - can get a bit irritating if you take them personally. My advice is to go forewarned, leave your indignation at home, and enjoy. Additionally - find a babysitter for the younger set or wait for the DVD release. Avatar will likely be engaging and enjoyable for ages 12 and up, but the little ones are bound to get restless in this nearly three-hour movie.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
User Comments
Michael: Wonderful review, I agree with your points, especially with the political thoughts. But, a must see in theaters anyway, IMAX if possible.
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