Avatar
User Score
7.6 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2356 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,807 out of 2356
  2. Mixed: 210 out of 2356
  3. Negative: 339 out of 2356

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  1. Iky009
    May 18, 2013
    9
    Great visual effects, film and mounted with a spectacular photography and a magnificent art direction and stunning views, but their enrendo is not the best yet it is still a great movie.
  2. ascoltami86
    May 17, 2013
    1
    what's more disappointing is this is the most expensive film, and worst movie I have ever seen.
    Horrible story, characters, weapons, machines, aircraft, aliens, guns, just awful.
    I love movies like Jurassic Park, E.T, Indiana Jones, why there are not many movies like this....
  3. Pimpinpakman
    May 6, 2013
    7
    I really dont see the big fuss about the movie. It was a predictable story borrowing heavily from other works. Visually striking however, no one can take that away from the movie. But other than that, its just like any other usual movie with nothing original.
  4. demk3653
    May 2, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What an amazing movie and the ability to bring the viewer deeper into the realm of new belief is not comparable. James Cameron was able to strongly voice opinions through the characters and situations presented in Avatar. From the story line all the way down to the visual effects, the movie was spot on for its delivery point.

    I don't believe that this movie set out to push its belief and logic on the viewer, but set out to prove a point in society; that is, that our world loses sight of essentials when we are in need of any resource. The beauty and character of Pandora is easily forgotten by the drive to gain substance. We have a long line of character personalities from the general who at any expense will not be stopped in his need for what seems is payback, to the scientist who wishes to gain knowledge from the indigenous peoples.

    I think there is a stronger presence in this movie for a world in search of answers, or unwilling to see whats in front of us. In modern world we struggle to see that there is a God, much like on Pandora. The beauty of the creation is hard to enjoy when you see it as a mere object. The creation, just like on earth, was created to prove a maker! Losing sight of this turns us into mere objects for pure progression, nothing less nothing more, but we are caught wondering what is this life for? The answer lays on the lines more deeply of is there more than this life or is this it? Pandora, it seems, attempts to answer this question through its deity. There is a higher power that brings life and beauty but the inability to come to that realization creates what seems is a monster in the characters seeking their riches.

    I think the deeper questions are not along the lines of, what was the point of this movie? But, more along the lines of what can we learn from this movie. There is a bold statement made about culture today, do we see that ourselves, or are we blinded by progress much like from the humans in this movie?

    I think many dislike this movie because of its bold undertones so we flee or become stand offish. There is a constant critique about controversial movies, but what about sitting back in learning rather than being so critical?    … Expand
  5. Georgus
    Apr 11, 2013
    2
    I dont know but I prefer science fiction without all tha eco themes like Rendezvous with Rama form A. C. Clarke http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rendezvous_with_Rama.
    Yes it is in 3D but thats about it, characters are shallow, story one sided, logic flawed and ultimate point of movie wrong.
  6. ExKing
    Apr 4, 2013
    6
    I'm not really a fan of big budget movies except for Titanic i think having a big budget movie will make it hard to maintain the story and the actors performances and aside from the fact that this movie in 3D i think James Cameron did a spectacular job with the visual effect and all that technological stuff but is the story solid NO is the performances good NO is the performance by Sam Worthington the leading actor memorable Hell NO he can't act so we left with nothing good and memorable also the story is unstable and messy so for me a solid 6 out of 10 fit to this movie.… Expand
  7. pottomless
    Apr 2, 2013
    10
    I like this film, because of the feelings this movie distributes. This piece of sci-fi is very beautiful to look at and it is very engaging. It is a solid 10
  8. sil3nt_nick
    Mar 24, 2013
    10
    James Cameron's thrilling film starring talented actors like Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana and Sigourney Weaver will always remain a favorite to many of its viewers. Special effects were jaw-dropping and unbelievable.
  9. MarkMusic
    Mar 18, 2013
    2
    This is the number one movie of all time????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? Why? Because of the flashy special effects? Cause that was the only memorable thing from this movie other then the long 3 hour experience first time watching it in a theater I feel asleep 1hr and 20 mins in. Next time watched it at home stopped at an hour, next week picked back up then stopped, then again I took me 4 times to watch the entire movie at home over a month long time period. Nothing special and certainly original. Save your money and watch a bootlegged version online or the real thing online.… Expand
  10. Mereopinions
    Mar 13, 2013
    4
    The action was what you'd expect from such a big block buster. And I kinda like the premise of the story but the story turned out fake and emotionless in my opinion. Also I couldn't find it in me to care about a single character. The love of the main characters was poorly developed as well. In the end it's not for me. But those of you that just want to see blue aliens go to battle against mankind because we're invading their planet. Go for it.… Expand
  11. StevenF
    Mar 12, 2013
    10
    Visual masterpieces with a thrilling story and unbelievable mastery in filmmaking rarely come along, but director James Cameron has simply (well, not simply) defined the open era of cinema with this stunning and original masterpiece that has set the benchmark for years to come.
    12 years is a long time out of the directors chair, but for Cameron this was necessary to create his vision for     perfection, for technology to catch up on his dream, and boy oh boy was the wait worth it.
    Cameron's epic tale is a war story of sorts, set in perhaps a not too distant future when humans have basically used up all resources on earth, and have sent many soldiers and scientists to the moon of Pandora, a distant planet in an entirely different star system.
    Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is our paraplegic hero, a former marine who is sent to replace his deceased twin brother as a Na'vi hybrid, or "Avatars". These are created using human DNA and the DNA of the native tribe of Pandora, the Na'vi. Jake is soon tasked with infiltrating the tribe as a mole in a bid for them to give up the location of unobtanium, a precious mineral which can be used on earth.
    Without going into too much more of the story, this film is beautiful, stunning and is a breakthrough in modern technology in cinema, the world of Pandora which Cameron has created never looks overly CGI, it looks, well, real, quite an impressive feat, the rumoured $300 million budget has been put to good use.
    What is most impressive, however, is the cinematography Mauro Fiore, who has superbly collaborated with Cameron to create an alternate universe to get lost and to fantasise about other worlds.
    To put this up against some of the best epic films of our time, the Star Wars franchise, Lord of the Rings and even Cameron's own Titanic, Avatar can proudly sit amongst if not above them, Star Wars was a franchise that had already made its market, LOTR were already a set of books and Titanic was a real life event, Avatar is a completely original concept, with obvious similarities to other films, but it is truly remarkable the scale and size of this film which was unsurprisingly over a decade in the making, but is not appreciated in its fullest to what has been achieved, a true mile stone, a technological and cinematic anomaly.
    Only question and drawback I had from this film was simply...why did it have to end?    … Expand
  12. TheWalrus2000
    Mar 9, 2013
    4
    Truly Avatar was a mastermind. Was. Cameron gives the plot too many things to keep up with, not only that but it gives you an unpleasing run time that will leave you bored till the end. Now for the people who disageree with me and say its an all time epic film your wrong. Watch it again and you'll realize how boring and forgettable the last battle of the movie was. So overall, this was a very exhausting film to watch.… Expand
  13. LaGuerta
    Mar 8, 2013
    1
    Avatar is the poster child for 3D cinema yet its other qualities are distinctly one dimensional, apparently 200 million dollars can't buy you a good story. Anyone who watches this is in for a headache-inducing three hours that they will never get back.
  14. AlessandroCali
    Mar 1, 2013
    2
    What has Avatar to offer? Graphics and... and nothing else. Only good graphics. The movie is definitely overrated, with a poor story, ridiculous characters and nothing new to offer to the genre. I'm sorry, but I really didn't like it at all.
  15. Tss5078
    Feb 24, 2013
    10
    People bashed it cause it was a big budget film and the focus of the previews and reviews were on the special effects, however this is one of the best sci-fi movies ever made, filled with hidden messages and real implications for our future. If you refuse to see it because it was a highly publicized blockbuster, than you are an idiot!
  16. worleyjamers
    Feb 24, 2013
    10
    For sure one of the best action/sci-fi movies ever. It's so emotionally engaging, so mindbogglingly(?) epic, nothing compares to the epic awesomeness of this film. As I'm sure you can tell, I love this movie.
    There are way to many people that simply "like" this movie and I don't get how that's possible. It's great in almost every way. Second, just because a film has similar theme and plot     element as other films (Pocahontas, Dances With Wolves), does not mean it's automatically unoriginal? I see the similarities between the films, but it doesn't bother me. Why? Because this is a brilliant film. So what if it is, Avatar has created it's own little world when it comes to film. Nothing compares to the visual effects, graphics, and action. I don't think people realize that; Avatar has revolutionized cinema!… Expand
  17. Rikiege
    Feb 15, 2013
    6
    The movie is good, but not so good for me. The film serves only to see it once and then forget about it.
  18. moonman1994
    Feb 10, 2013
    6
    Climatically beautiful, masterful use of 3D and amazing use of colors, and great computer animation. These aspects are the highlight of the film. If you get the opportunity to see Avatar on a movie theater screen then it is a must see due to it's brilliance on the big screen. However on the small screen much of this brilliance is less in the forefront and this allows you to see through how pretty it is and see how the story is really lacking. Avatar's story line is an unoriginal mishmash of different movies filled with uninspiring characters. Yes this movie will awe you with it's visual effects but if you're looking for a movie with a deep story Avatar is not it. the acting all an all was good and the story was not lacking at any fault of the actors. This movie is a typical James Cameron spectacle with little more than pretty scenery.… Expand
  19. SeaweedWrap002
    Feb 9, 2013
    2
    An unoriginal movie that did not recieve even one oscar that it recieved. Also, that only happened because James Franco directed Titanic. Not worth owning, a movie that's easily forgettable.
  20. BradySmith
    Jan 21, 2013
    9
    Avatar was a gigantic leap forward in film making. James Cameron directs it so well, and the new visual technology is so stunning, that it breathes new life into the cleche story every epic in the past twenty years has used over and over. Cameron's diologue is average, but you do end up feeling for the characters anyways. The score is amazing and fits in perfectly. I did think it was a little heavy in promoting its pro environmental ideas though. Despite this it's still a phenominal cinematic experience.… Expand
  21. nirishan9
    Jan 13, 2013
    4
    The movie is nearly fun to watch, but misses that by a thin hair. The story i abominable. Cheese and bore. The effects, while entertaining can't last the length of the movie, which by the first half, is begging you to leave.
  22. Summersausage
    Jan 5, 2013
    3
    This movie was a conglomeration of story lines that were boring the first time I saw them in Pocahontas and Titanic. It is a go- green movie that thrives due to its special effects but falls flat on every other aspect. This movie has risen to its predecessors of Push and Transformers.
  23. Patrick94
    Jan 4, 2013
    0
    Most overrated movie in history. The only good thing about Avatar is the visuals. The world is pretty to look at but.. well, there's nothing there. The story is horrible, the characters annoying, and the scenarios they find themselves in absolutely ridiculous
  24. Necromus
    Dec 29, 2012
    8
    This movie is overrated but it still wasn't bad. The special effects were absolutely awesome. The 3D? imo -- unnecessary. I don't think I even noticed anything being in 3D after the initial few minutes of putting my glasses on. The 3D technology was also inferior to the laser IMAX 3D films I saw in the late 90s, in those, things actually jumped out in the theater right in front of your seat, with this 3D technology? nope, things just kind of pop out a few feet in front of the screen only. The plot of the movie was okay, a not-so-subtle criticism of the Pentagon (you seen a pentagon around their map board) and/or Military Industrial Complex wanting to destroy the natural habitat of the indigenous people. This movie dragged a lot in parts though, it was longer than it needed to be, they should have cut out those dragging sections, it would have been much better then. Overall, amazing special effects and a mildly-entertaining movie. Worth seeing but doesn't live up to all of the hype. I give it an 8/10… Expand
  25. mrnice
    Dec 29, 2012
    9
    A solid blockbuster that pulls all the 'right' strings and puts on an impressive spectacle. The aspect that settles it firmly in the highest part of the score chart (giving it an 9, but it could be an 8 as well) is that the director takes a humanitarian subject that he is personally passionate about, and creates a compelling Hollywood expression of the issue. It doesn't hurt the film that nature is so rich in beauty and easily gorgeous visuals that the movie oozes with beauty that in itself creates a compelling argument for environmental preservation and humble approaches to our shared home.… Expand
  26. JawsLaxerDrama
    Dec 24, 2012
    7
    Effects: Absolutely incredibly well done. Nothing bad to say about it. Script: Eh, it was okay. Characters: Nothing is well developed (Titanic was the same way) Plot: Nothing special, but not horrible. Pros: Visual treat that will have you on your seat. Cons: After 1 hour, you might get bored. Diagnosis: It is worth seeing, but it's not the best movie ever. Guilty Pleasure: No. It's not horrible.… Expand
  27. EDJET787
    Dec 22, 2012
    4
    This has to be one of the most overrated films in the history of cinema. The only reason this movie gets any praise is because of the special effects, which I will admit were really good, but everything else is just below average and unoriginal. Avatar is far too long and is something that I would expect Michael Bay to direct.
  28. jfrotylpe532
    Dec 22, 2012
    8
    Mind-blowing special effects and amazing screenplay however calling this movie the most epic movie ever is overrated.
  29. giannis19962012
    Dec 17, 2012
    8
    Avatar will take you to Pandora. Jake Sully informed that his brother is dead so now he is controlling his brother's avatar. This film is not only action but also drama. I really cried. Great film.
  30. irmaod
    Dec 15, 2012
    6
    is a film with great graphics but the story is no big deal is anyway
    a film that sees to the end with a bit of enthusiasm do not know is how is the film with the highest revenue ever
  31. anshiman
    Dec 11, 2012
    7
    Avatar, along with James Cameron, is a classic example of overrated media. Even though Avatar has its strong moments, and the undeniable visual candy that is omnipresent within the movie, its plot is tired, predictable and cliched. The raconteur of gunfire, obvious native America references, disappointing dialogue and bitter aftertaste combine to form one of the most mediocre films by James Cameron, only being supported by the visuals.… Expand
  32. skyrimbestgame
    Dec 11, 2012
    4
    Avatar, despite all its hype and adoration, simply fails to deliver a truly satisfying experience. The special effects are easily the best part of this film, though everything else from the stilted writing to the empty, stereotypical characters to the uninspired eye-roller of a dystopian future bereft of any intellectually stimulating rhetoric or substance.
  33. phAtBenJ
    Nov 25, 2012
    4
    Avatar is no doubt my least favorite film of all time for one simple reason: it is everything wrong with Hollywood. Over-budgeted production cost, the lure of 3D to draw viewers, manipulative characters and political messages, and the complete lack of depth in the characters and story plague this beautiful looking film. To say that this film is bad would be a lie, but I despise this film so much due to it's one-dimensional characters and predictable and unoriginal story. James Cameron has done some great work in his career (The Terminator films, Aliens, [and even] Titanic), but Avatar is not among that prestigious list. Avatar only goes to prove that visual effects and action scenes do not guarantee a good film. For example, 12 Angry Men is one of the greatest films ever and it contains no action, CGI, and lacks multiple locations; the entire appeal of the film lies in its strong characters, dialogue, premise, and confrontations. Avatar lacks all these quintessential elements, and therefore suffers.… Expand
  34. YoursTruly
    Nov 9, 2012
    6
    As I once heard it put: "A sight to behold. A story to forget".
  35. cameronmorewood
    Nov 8, 2012
    6
    A great vision, with more than excellent visual effects, some of the best I've ever seen in fact. Despite this, the film drones on for the last hour with battle sequences. If you're not a hardcore sci-fi action fan, it'll put you to sleep.
  36. theWrath
    Nov 5, 2012
    5
    It's the first movie that I saw, who made it perfect with the 3D part. But that's all. Story is boring as hell. I watched Avatar now for the 5th time, the first 3 times I just fall asleep. Sorry, I don't get it!? Why is that movie so great? Story is nothing new, but the effects are ... Yeah, I'll go and watch the visual demo of my Nvidia, it's the same ...
  37. Official
    Nov 2, 2012
    8
    James Cameron really provides almost everything audiences expect. There's plenty of action, with lots of explosions and guns, and is just good as Terminator and Aliens. My score: 88/100
  38. Kamal_Voltaic
    Oct 30, 2012
    4
    Yes. The visuals were amazing... but that's about it. I seriously don't understand how people can call it the greatest movie of all time, the plot is weak.
    It's like a cardboard cut-out of a chocolate cake.
  39. Pixarlover
    Oct 23, 2012
    9
    Now Avatar is one of those movies you see at the movies and love it more than anything else after seeing it. However when you watch it again you realise it was because you were so overwhelmed with the small things in the film and focused on the fantastic parts instead of anything else. I thought that way after seeing it but Avatar will never live up to the likes of Star Wars, Blade Runner, E.T. or Inception as examples of sci-fi films that will never have equals.

    This movie is still entertaining but it is not fantastic storytelling. It's a good set up for climactic action scenes at best. Jake Sully was a likeable character but he was the nobody-becoming-hero kind of character. The characters are as familiar as cookies. They're made of the exact same recipe that's been used over and over making it lose its speciality. However Avatar can't be denied of its ambition in trying to deliver an epic scale cinematic experience.

    I thought this was one of the top movies of 2009 and thought it as a favourite movie of mine, but my opinion of it has diminished somewhat, but I still love it in my own way, not like my love for Star Wars or Lord of the Rings.

    You need to see the movie in 3D to be able to fully appreciate how well made it is. All the negative reviews probably saw the 2D one instead of the authentic version. Now they've FINALLY released the movie on 3D Blu-Ray we can all purchase the version we loved in the cinema and watch it at home any time we want to.

    As a storytelling movie it isn't all that impressive. As an experience it is amazing especially when you're watching the 3D version of it. I think people never cared for the experience or exploration of Pandora; they just wanted to make fun of the guy who made Titanic, the movie that was once the top-grosser of all time that was defeated by Avatar.

    Avatar is a good time at the movies but beware the trolls of this movie. Don't listen to them. Watch this movie and see for yourself and it's okay if you love it or hate it or anything else in between. It's not the best movie ever made; there are better films, but Avatar is great escapism for those looking for a sci-fi fantasy movie to help escape their own boring lives.    … Expand
  40. Tokyochuchu
    Sep 17, 2012
    7
    Avatar is a really mixed bag. It's good points are awesome; Sci-fi on a grand scale, fantastic action sequences and a return to the colonial marines aesthetic of Aliens. It's bad points are equally annoying, though; It's overwrought in the extreme, it has a paint-by-number script and commits wholesale theft from Dances With Wolves. Ultimately, however, Avatar scores an inevitable victory from the simplest of notions. It makes us want to see the bad guys take a monster ass-whooping!… Expand
  41. Jack101
    Sep 12, 2012
    9
    One of the best ever. Im Super suprised it didnt win the Best Picture. The Final Battle had even great suprises, and intensity. For those who negatively judge, they got no proof that it sucks, which it doesnt.
  42. FilmReviews
    Sep 4, 2012
    8
    "Avatar" is great, because It's full with thrilling moments. Now, the 3D animation is masterful, and the story, not fantastic, but great. It's with great voice acting and with good characters.
  43. Trev29
    Sep 3, 2012
    6
    The movie wasn't half bad, but the visuals were about the only thing it could conger up. Script and acting were below par completely and the movie seemed too cliche.
  44. potatoes351
    Aug 29, 2012
    10
    Avatar is the magical work of the cinematic genius that is James Cameron, the man behind The Terminator and Aliens. Jake Sully is a marine who was injured in battle and left paralysed from the waist down. After his brothers untimely death Jake is invited to take up his brothers scientific pursuits on the planet Pandora as part of the Avatar program. After being separated from his group on a mission Jake is found by Neytiri, one of the Navi native to the planet. Neytiri trains Jake in the ways of the Navi as he falls in love with her and the planet around him. However the mining corporation stationed on Pandora have other plans for the planet, and so ensues a battle for survival, love and family. Avatar is more than just a visually stunning film with its amazingly realistic special effects, it makes the film feel alive and real. Avatar is a must watch film that should not be missed by anyone.… Expand
  45. dev92
    Aug 25, 2012
    5
    The idea for the story and technology used to produce this film are both fantastic. However, it just becomes too boring and too predictable extremely quickly. The characters are so generic and the fact that it gets so much praise is indicative of the way movie critics are now-a-days. It wasn't a poor film but it isn't one of the best films ever. It was simply a good film as most of them are.
  46. marcomartins
    Aug 13, 2012
    10
    The narrative is simple but as the plot goes on it gets so thrilling. James Cameron not only returns in great form with this amazing movie delivering great visual effects and unforgettable characters, like he also delivers something from his past film, Titanic, which is emotion and this movie has plenty of it.
  47. Garian
    Aug 7, 2012
    9
    This was definitely a great film to watch, it had a very compelling story, and the visuals were amazing. It was quite funny how they named the special ore "Unobtainium" it made me laugh.
  48. Xposure
    Aug 5, 2012
    5
    When I decided to begin watching Avatar, I was expecting a great movie, but that's simply not what was revealed before my eyes. The only truly good thing I can say about it, is that it's got some pretty impressive visuals. The rest of the movie is more or less average.
  49. Isaac_adhd
    Aug 3, 2012
    9
    This film reaches a new level when it comes to both technology and creativity. It´s a really good created alter/reality that will hold your attention with ease during the entire ride. Visuals and atmosphere give this this movie an absolute a-status. The created world is absorbing your brain so bad that the average story won't bother you even 1 second. This one shines in utter greatness!
  50. jwt7000
    Aug 2, 2012
    7
    This would have been one of my favorite movies of all time if it weren't enough for more awards, more 3D special effects and a greater depth in the story, this movie would have been more epic. The music overall was one step down from Titanic.
  51. gregthreet
    Aug 1, 2012
    5
    Going to see this in the cinema was the biggest disappointment I ever had with a movie. Lots of amazing graphics they said, they were right, a unique experience they said, they were right. Hey guys, ever wondered what the most **** up hero of all time looked like? The main character of avatar is your answer. Big commando man asks him to politely get the "navi" to move down the road just so the earth can have some more oil. Seems fair. So they turn him into a Navi, great, now he just needs to earn their trust and lead them both to a political understanding. But no, this wanker **** their leaders daughter, attacks humans, starts a **** war, kills all the humans and is presented as some kind of role model. **** **** Something like $7billion spent on this film. Probably spent on tipping of critics so they give it a good score. A **** predictable story with HD slapped on its huge ass. Waste of space.… Expand
  52. TowerPowerHour
    Jul 31, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. James Cameron's Avatar is a fantastic film and I highly recommend it. I went to see it in theaters on the day it came out, and damn was it a fantastic film. Never have I been so engaged to a flick that was entertaining like Avatar. I know own it on DVD; it was that great. But it all boils down to personal preference. The reason it doesn't score a perfect 10, was because of some predictable scenes throughout the film and some cheesy lines. Other than that, Avatar was one of the most incredible and spectacular films I've ever watched. Oh, and I also recommend this movie on a Home Theater system to get the most of the experience.… Expand
  53. CursedKnight187
    Jul 25, 2012
    9
    James Cameron films always thrive on their epic visuals and their equally epic storylines. However the problem is that to have an epic story you usually do not have the room to add a personal side to the film. Avatar overcomes this barrier and has a personally touching plot alongside its stunning visuals and impressive acting. It's not the best film ever, but it is certainly deserved of the trademark James Cameron hype.… Expand
  54. jedijared182
    Jul 4, 2012
    3
    Cameron hit on special effects but other than that, unoriginal in story and slightly boring. Too much CGI for my liking. Very well done effects but the story falls short of new and/or exciting.
  55. TheZapper
    Jul 3, 2012
    0
    AM I THE ONLY ONE THAT HASN'T BEEN LOBOTAMISED?
    Technically good but other than that it was a cowboys vs Indians movie and you know it, I'm just desperately thankful James Cameron's only working on doco's (which I won't have to care about), or unfortunately the sequal to this....
  56. dharma
    Jun 17, 2012
    9
    It's the number one blockbuster of all time. It used every inch of its over sized budget to create one of the most spectacular set of effects ever seen. Yet despite its crowing achievement, AVATAR is not Cameron's best works, too distilled for a more general audiences. Not as great as his classics such as Aliens or T2, but more palatable for the masses. At its heart, it's a love story told countless before. This simplicity allows it to become a film that transcend different cultures, but it is also its main weakness. Yet despite all that, it is still well acted and has pioneered technology that is currently influences other film makers today. Again, just like the Dark Knight, another blockbuster classic too populist for the OSCARS.… Expand
  57. SilverMan
    Jun 10, 2012
    5
    Four words for this movie: Pocahontas from the future. It's no joke. The visual effects, Pandora, photography, everything is great. But I think James Cameron got so excited by these that he forgot to invest in a good history. No surprise he didn't get th Oscar for Best Movie...
  58. GagaForGhibli
    Jun 3, 2012
    10
    Simply Amazing!
    In The Top 3 Movies Of 2009!
  59. Subject98
    May 31, 2012
    7
    My first and only time going to see a movie in 3D... it wasn't bad and didn't feel too gimmicky but it just wasn't necessary. As for the movie itself, I liked it for a lot of reasons but it wasn't the ground breaking experience it was made out to be from all the hype. My only real gripes are with the story. If the characters were at least somewhat memorable I could have given it a better score but... I don't know what it is but the vast majority of the characters just seem like actors on a set rather than real people. I've seen better character development in videogames from the 90s. The plot I thought was good but can't deny how similar it is to a number of other movies I've seen. Those things aside though I could find a lot of reasons to defend it too. I remember there was a lot of racial controversy surrounding the movie and I can't help but scratch my head at that. >_> Also the art direction is some of the best I've seen in a movie, I just wish all the cool bells and whistles were backed up by a better plot. I will say that it was probably among the most intriguing movies I saw in 2009.… Expand
  60. aaronpaul121
    May 25, 2012
    6
    The visual effects are fantastic but there are certain points in the film that the characters are a little over-the-top. The story is original but a little bit boring. The acting is sometimes good and sometimes weird. This is certainly not James Cameron's best, but a solid one though
  61. 000Tuld000
    May 17, 2012
    8
    Great effects and beautiful colors. But the aliens remind me too much of cats and the plants in the movie seemed too Earth like. They should have made everything a bit more extraterrestial such as the Na 'vi and the plants.
  62. TheChaser1985
    May 11, 2012
    9
    This movie is a great one. I wish the battle scenes would have been more epic, but I really can't complain too much. Not the greatest movie ever, but very great. Great graphics and a decent story.
  63. Rioka
    May 9, 2012
    1
    This was not the worst film I have ever seen. It wasn't good, though. As many people have pointed out, the story was predictable and dull, and the script was poor. I could have forgiven it for not having a very original or insightful message, you don't really expect that in a blockbuster, but it insisted on shoving it's completely unoriginal message down my throat for so long that I got pretty sick of it. Overall, I'm at a loss as to why so many people rate this film so highly.… Expand
  64. cub317
    May 3, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ah Avatar, where can I begin? This movie is a masterpiece of a motion picture! Everything about this movie is amazing! The plot takes place several thousand years in the future, where mankind has run out of resources, and are now looking for more on distant planets. They then come across a race of humanoids called the Na'vi, and go to war with them, all because the humans are stealing their resources. This is a very good, yet a tad bit unoriginal plot that everyone loves. As you can probably expect from this film the humans are the bad guys. The visual effects are excellent! Everything looks very realistic, and I love that! The character development is great too! It shows the main hero turning from a human to a Na'vi. Personally, I see little problem with this film, other than its plot, which is a little unoriginal. I wish the video game based off of this movie was better (see my review of that for more details), but it is unfair to judge a movie by its video game. Overall, this is the near perfect film!… Expand
  65. Paranoia
    Apr 26, 2012
    8
    7.5 - the movie was just a simple story which was hidden behind the graphic effects which kept me watching. that's probably why i played it so many times on my 3D tv.
  66. ObbiePR18
    Apr 4, 2012
    10
    La mejor pelicula de ciencia ficcion desde The Matrix. Avatar es simplemente extraordinaria. Un filme romantico e visualmente fantastico que nos presenta problemas reales. La historia puede que sea poco creativa, pero la trama, los elmentos que Avatar posee la hacen ser perfecta. La verdad es que fue sorprendente, no solo visualmente, sino ademas que presenta problemas causados por humanos. Cameron lo hace nuevemante, esta es definitivamente su mejor pelicula. No es solo un filme, sino la razon por la que vamos al cine.… Expand
  67. Juanolo
    Apr 2, 2012
    10
    First off, this would be a 10 out of 10. It's really good. Visuals and special effects are phenomenal. Theyre all amazing, and some of the best in filming. Score is really good. The story is also really good as well. The battle sequences are epic. They're amazing. I'm happy this got 3 oscars, but I think this shouldve got more. Overall, this is an amazing scifi adventure that's a amazing movie. This is highly recommended. You should see it.… Expand
  68. fanguychris
    Mar 26, 2012
    7
  69. Doehl
    Mar 24, 2012
    8
    The whole thing may just be one large cliche with some new characters and visual effects, but if that is so, then it is also one of the best cliches I have ever seen.
  70. csw12
    Mar 24, 2012
    10
    To simply put it Avatar is the most beautiful movie i have ever seen. the visuals are stunning and the story is good enough. Avatar will not be matched in the techinal world of movies for a very long time. a truly stunning spectacle
  71. Josh_47ra
    Mar 19, 2012
    2
    This score is totally for the visuals and nothing else. I admit they were amazing and groundbreaking. The plot is stupid. The characters are stereotypical. There is way to much 'environment is gud' message shoved in your face. I will never watch this movie again.
  72. easypeasy118
    Mar 6, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this film was much better then i expected to be buy i wish that the main characters in the film didn't look like smirfs who never wash their hair and stick into anything they want and all of a sudden its there's to keep. good actors in the film women of alien is on it who as usual gets shoot but still survives. the main jist of the film is humans go to a planet infested with smirfs and other flying dragons that love biting humans faces off and they use their planet for resources such as wood but these smirfs live in their natural habitat which is the jungle and everything gets out of hand and yes they have a massive WAR! after home tree gets owned by loads of missiles. however the smirfs have a weapon, the king dragon which gets tamed by a guy i think called sully who was a human but then turned into a smirf in a little machine. overall this film is amazing and it showed be since it cost so much! good ideas put into the film as well they thought of good creatures to have a fight with the humans and also with the futuristic mechs the humans have, luckily the smirfs have nature on their side and you will have to see the film to know what happens in the end!… Expand
  73. nathan737
    Feb 7, 2012
    10
    This is one of the best movies I have ever seen. It got robbed of an Oscar for Best Picture. The graphics are stunning and the plot is very good. You have to be crazy to not like this movie.
  74. debjyotinsec
    Jan 29, 2012
    10
    what can i possibly say
    not arguing this with previous titanic
    i would say mr.cameron has come a long way with directing this sci-fi epic.the important lesson is we are all equal some way are another
    & this time cameron create some kind of god with help of jake sully
    wonderful 3D experience
  75. Lacohfilho
    Jan 28, 2012
    8
    A beautiful journey in 3D, put together by Cameron genius. Despite obvious flaws in the plot, is a good movie and worth the ticket. Especially great for images that will be offered in the same way.
  76. imthenoob
    Jan 24, 2012
    2
    Visually, Its extremely impressive and I was shocked that James Cameron didnt win the oscar for best director because of the visual effects in the film and the ground breaking use of CGI as well. However, The film sucks. The acting is terrible, the plot not only sucks but is a complete rip off of Dances With Wolves, and its incredibly boring (I was only entertained in 3 very short parts in the entire film). Sorry but the visuals can only get you so far in my book and this film just doesnt cut it imo.… Expand
  77. Snodog
    Jan 24, 2012
    4
    I give this movie, overall, a 4. If i were to break up the movie, my scores would differ. Visual 10 Sound 8 Storyline 0 Acting 3 Originality 0 The visuals were amazing, of course, anyone could tell you that. However, the plot was disgustingly unoriginal and offensive on some points. The alien race is very clearly representing the Native Americans of Americas past. Not only are they on a very liberal agenda, living off the land, hunting, chanting, no need for technical advancement... etc. they also steal dress and even language and sound of Native Americans which i find extremely disrespectful and distasteful. Second, why are these humans so heartless. I've never encountered a business man so classless and idiotic. The general is all around bloodthirsty for no apparent reason other than the fact that he has a superman complex. While the visuals are amazing, there are no creative creatures throughout the entire film excluding the flying ones. Horses, rhinos, jungle cats, monkeys, lizards... its incredibly unimaginative. The relationship of different departments all under the figurehead of a mining operation is laughable. Science would never take a back seat to pure profit when it came to a world where intelligent life and different species were discovered. I don't care how far into the future this is, the human race has already evolved beyond the point of the barbaric atrocities portrayed in this movie, ESPECIALLY to a new intelligent species. Its insane to think this movie is even plausible, even 20 years ago when the script was being written. It literally makes me sick that all this visual ingenuity is going into a recycled, over hyped peace of garbage like this.… Expand
  78. island
    Jan 21, 2012
    2
    Ultimately overrated. Great effects and visuals but the story sucks. The story line is like Pocahontas's and has nothing to say. The characters are rather ridiculous with the hipster navies.
  79. Hyperbole
    Jan 17, 2012
    1
    This film is like a very subtle spoof written by an enemy of James Cameron. His ego and lack of imagination and cliched goo ooze through this awful God awful film. This is seriously made by the same guy who did Terminator 2? Only reason this is even getting a 1 is because some of the non cartoony looking stuff is neat visually once and a while.
  80. djcmusic
    Jan 7, 2012
    6
    The movie looked and sounded amazing. No doubt about that, but for being 10 years in the making the plot was a little too umm predictable. Some say thats being too nit picky, I say I could predict the whole movie and it kinda sucks. This is pokahontas basically with blue aliens. Great battle sequences, but the story overall isn't that interesting and again being totally predictable doesn't help it. I thought it definetly had an amazing look to it, but by the end I thought I saw something only about as half epic as it was built up to be.… Expand
  81. EssenceOfSugar
    Dec 28, 2011
    2
    This could have been a good movie if it wasn't such a junk food feast of special effects and lacking of plot. This movie could have been great, but it wasn't, as James Cameron is much more interested in plagarising from good plots and sticking a bunch of blue creatures and glittery fairy nonsense in it to make it look pretty. It's a shame the critics were either too confident in that this was going to go somewhere, or too scared to pipe up that it didn't. There are better movies out there that don't particularly seem to be popular with the critics. I am more than confident that this was not even worth the production it deserved, or the paper the tickets were printed on. There were aspects of the movie that I would have enjoyed, there were things I could of happily watched, but sadly it was blindingly obvious to me that the CGI and special effects were just part of the after effects I suffered when I came out of the cinema.… Expand
  82. LevelsAndGear
    Dec 27, 2011
    8
    "Avatar: 3D the IMAX Experience" Brief Review! "B"

    Most of you have probably already seen it, and some of you may not have an IMAX nearby. However, the effects and visuals for the 3D IMAX were very cool. The world was vibrant and interesting. The movie story was a bit trite and predictable, though they did a decent enough job trying to eliminate (most) of the massive plot holes a sci-fi s    tory that requires a lot of suspension of disbelief can create. I thought they tried too hard on the Sigourney Weaver "Avatar", because no one else remotely looked like her. Otherwise, it was an enjoyable enough experience with a "C" Plot and story, but an "A" for effects and visuals. Worth checking out.

    My favorite moments involved the Avatar Training Montage and the glowy everything. Also, I am pretty sure that was Brian from "Wings" as one of the soldiers. As a note, prepare for a whole lot more IMAX 3D - Shrek, Toy Story, Alice in Wonderland, Spider Man, and more are among those on tap... And there's a rumor that... They are going to do Taxi Driver in 3D... Ok...    … Expand
  83. Shahnameh
    Dec 22, 2011
    8
    This movie actually shows the real history of humans that how we where and then what happend to us after a perfect golden age and how we all were one and closed to each other and the nature.
  84. heyitsmegrif4
    Dec 19, 2011
    9
    Most critics have just praised it for its just stunning visual effects and 3D effects, but I find its story to be incredibly powerful and moving with just enough emotional depth added in there. I give this film 93%.
  85. TheSuddernator
    Dec 15, 2011
    5
    To sum up a boring film. i mean yeah the cgi, blue alien concept is good but not for 162 minutes. I was frustrated with the fact that james cameron thought it would be ok just to show off the cgi and leave it to a bunch of 10 year olds to create a shabby story with more action scenes than all 3 transformers in a row. im not saying its a bad film, not by any means as i suppose the cgi and idea of pandora is well thought of, its just very boring after you realise that the cgi concept is all your going to see in this 2 and a half hour marathon of a film.… Expand
  86. charredrelik
    Dec 14, 2011
    0
    God i hated this movie. it was stupid, boring and stupid. it didnt make sence in so many areas. its only endearing quality was when we left it running at home with the sound down. it makes a pretty screensaver!
  87. Potter17
    Dec 9, 2011
    9
    The storyline may not reach the genius-level of its technical part but, "Avatar" is deeply absorbing and benefits from Cameron's visionary direction and a strong performance by Zoe Saldana.
  88. spadenx
    Dec 8, 2011
    3
    Easily the most overrated film of all time. Visually it loses its impressiveness rather quickly into the film and while it may look great in 3D, In 2D is rathers boring. Not to mention the film's plot is a rip off of Dances With Wolves (Seriously check that out). Also the acting is rather disapointing and sometimes terrible. Overall its visually impressive in 3D but thats it.
  89. Vic
    Dec 6, 2011
    10
    Simply the best movie, everyone has to watch it! Amazing special effects, sound, story, deep meaning! James Cameron definitely is one of the best directors! I love this movie!!!
  90. MokoReviews
    Dec 1, 2011
    9
    Truly a work that deserves admiration. Many people were doubting if this film is justifiable to its enormous budget, many were doubting if it would â
  91. khajvah
    Dec 1, 2011
    4
    Too overrated. A movie with computer design only... nothing interesting... it sucks don't waste your time on this...
  92. USG
    Nov 21, 2011
    5
    Other than popularizing 3D, Avatar has nothing else to offer. The story is basic and unbearable at times if not predictable. The only thing that is captivating is the effects and technicality for a short time then it and the dialogue appalls.
  93. MovieCritic
    Nov 21, 2011
    9
    Ok listen for all you bad reviewers: If your not looking for an action movie, go watch a freakin romantic comedy. Thats not this movie. The effects are amazing and stop bring the stupid, childish Pocahontas or whatever into this film. They're nothing alike. This movie was rated better then Titanic and has awesome plot and idea and characters that are realistic.
  94. BrandonBonasera
    Nov 16, 2011
    5
    AVATAR is a good movie and it is visually impressive, but it is quite predictable and cliched and quite unoriginal. I was disappointed from the 3D that I had to take off my glasses since it was pointless.
  95. Zilcell
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    Amazing special effects! Some people don't like the story of this film but I do. It is very fun and it was worth it to see this movie. The large budget really shows that a lot of work was put into this movie
  96. davenbettridge
    Nov 8, 2011
    8
    The best movies don't make the most money and Avatar is the best example of a movie held back from being a deeper and more original film to be more appealing to a wider audience and make more money. The movie is well crafted, having stunning visual design and an entertaining (enough) story, but James Cam is smarter than what this movie actually is and has deliberately held off from making a more original, truly entertaining, and deep science fiction movie. The light science fiction themes the movie does have are good and relevant in our digital age of internet avatars, I just wished they did more with them. The movie is what it is, it is fun and worth a watch, but is only half as good as it could have been.… Expand
  97. KgnDavel
    Oct 31, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first time I heard about avatar it made me think about a flying monk with a stick to wack guys with. But when I saw the trailer then I got more interested in it. Turns out its all about a disabled ex-marine who fills in for his twin brother (because he was shot by a robber), to go to a distant planet. In order to become part of the avatar program (the DNA of the user and the indiginous natives, that was fused together in order to befriend them). He has to befriend them so that the other humans can get a rare element that happens to be under their home tree.it turns out that the real bad guys are us. Well thats all I'm going to say exeppt that it is one of my favourite movie. And the best movie ewer made. Can't wait till avatar 2.… Expand
  98. MediaCritic
    Oct 18, 2011
    9
    This movie is really stunning. The effects and CGI are amazing, and it has a great storyline. Years of planning put into this payed off. Pandora was designed really well, and the battle scenes couldn't have been better. The "avatars" were played by real actors and filmed on a motion capture studio, and they done really well. the film was really well made, and I can't think of many ways in which it could be improved upon.… Expand
  99. jc15
    Oct 3, 2011
    9
    I thought it was a great movie. good story, good acting, amazing special effects. I understand the plot is just not good enough for some of the experts, but this is a really good film.
  100. Delta_Assault
    Sep 28, 2011
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. James Cameron has succeeded where George Lucas failed.

    That was the one phrase that went through my head on the drive back from the theater. What I mean is, the promise of the CGI technology that Lucas sought in the prequels and failed to achieve, Cameron has gone and fulfilled it. The visuals are a hair away from being photorealistic. It never felt terrible to look at. The 3D is the best I've ever seen and really added to the experience. Absolutely worthwhile for the extra 5 dollars on the ticket, I thought.

    Story and dialogue... there's some issues. It's not quite up to par with the visual technology. I'm not gonna go and say it's my favorite Cameron film, Aliens is still there. But it's not so far from that level of quality. Certainly closer then Titanic ever was. As a pure cinematic experience, it delivers.

    That was the general overview. Now for the in depth stuff:

    Ya know, what's most impressive might just be how Cameron's subverted his entire legacy. What do I mean by that? Well, let's see... in Aliens, he made us root for the space marines as they desperately fought against getting eaten and horribly mutilated by giant aliens. In Avatar, he's actually made us root for the giant aliens as they desperately fought to eat and horribly mutilate the space marines. A much greater feat, I think. (In case you were wondering, I was referring to the scene of the Banshees biting marines and throwing em out of the helos.)

    The delivery of the story is pretty damn close to the Cameron we've all known and love. The final huge battle scene... just beautiful action setpieces and payoff. It all clicks together. We don't quite have to suffer all summer under a bunch of hacks and one guy named Michael Bay. You could call this whole December tale The Return of the King. Cameron's returned and god bless him, he's still the king of action. I know my action, Aliens is one of my 5 favorite films of all time, and he has not let us down.

    That was the delivery of the story. The actual story itself... ugh. This is problematic for me. Maybe it would have helped if I'd been some sorta tree hugging hippie liberal, but despite living in San Francisco, I am not. So the story really uh... didn't work that well for me. I've never watched Dances with Wolves, but I can completely understand what they mean when they say this film is Dances with Wolves in Space. It basically is just this tale about the white man moving in and trying to take the land of the poor Indians. And how we have to fight back. Jake's whole speech before the battle there kinda nailed it. Though I found it funny how he said "They will not take our land!" Our land, Jake? Last time I checked, you were a human. You're not a native. It's not quite your land. But uh... yea, this whole story was just so cliched and predictable and the overall themes were so bluntly put... it did begin to nag at me. It was bothersome. The Naavi themselves seem to be a hybrid of Indians and Africans. When it's about taking their land, it's obviously an Indian reference. But they also have dreadlocks and they do the weird chanting and the music gives us these shrieks and moans... those remind me more of African influences. But yea, the story's about the white man being greedy and taking the land of Indian/Africans. And they have to fight back while riding horses and using bows and arrows. It's just so heavy handed and obvious.

    And the **** lame Bush references... oh my god. It's just Cameron hitting us over the **** head over and over again. It's just not good. Lines like "We will fight terror with terror" and "Jake, they're planning some sort of shock and awe campaign." I mean, jesus christ. What were you thinking? Aliens was clearly about Vietnam in some manner, but it wasn't that obnoxious about it, was it? Those lines just killed the scenes for me. You could hear the snarky laughter in the audience. Just... ugh, cut it out. We get it dude, you didn't like Bush. We also know you don't like destroying the environment. Thanks for the hints. We should probably also save the whales, right? That's what you're about too, right? Subtlety... more subtlety please.

    Okay, let's talk about that one scene... ya know, the uh, the iffy scene. I was totally with the story, going with it up to that point quite well... it was working on me, and I was along for the ride but man... that SCENE. You know the one. Where Jake and the blue cat princess finally... bump uglies. Now, I'd been going along with Cameron but that scene made me feel very very uncomfortable. Like I was watching something a furry would be getting off on. And yea, I know the Naavi don't have any fur. But still... it felt very wrong and disturbing. One of those times where you just manage to let out some nervous laughter.    … Expand
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Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83 out of 100

Universal acclaim - based on 35 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 35
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 35
  3. Negative: 0 out of 35
  1. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Kirk Honeycutt
    100
    A fully believable, flesh-and-blood (albeit not human flesh and blood) romance is the beating heart of "Avatar." Cameron has never made a movie just to show off visual pyrotechnics: Every bit of technology in "Avatar" serves the greater purpose of a deeply felt love story.
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  2. Empire
    Reviewed by: Chris Hewitt
    100
    It's been twelve years since "Titanic," but the King of the World has returned with a flawed but fantastic tour de force that, taken on its merits as a film, especially in two dimensions, warrants four stars. However, if you can wrap a pair of 3D glasses round your peepers, this becomes a transcendent, full-on five-star experience that's the closest we'll ever come to setting foot on a strange new world. Just don't leave it so long next time, eh, Jim?
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  3. Variety
    Reviewed by: Todd McCarthy
    90
    Avatar is all-enveloping and transporting, with Cameron & Co.'s years of R&D paying off with a film that, as his work has done before, raises the technical bar and throws down a challenge for the many other filmmakers toiling in the sci-fi/fantasy realm.
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