Avatar
User Score
7.6 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2369 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,818 out of 2369
  2. Mixed: 210 out of 2369
  3. Negative: 341 out of 2369

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  1. grandpajoe6191
    Sep 10, 2011
    8
    Despite "Avatar"'s heavy plot, Blockbuster king James Cameron impresses us with fantastic visuals and CGI of the Na'vi and human battle scenes in (Le Gasp!) 3D.
  2. 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.
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. TheQuietGamer
    Mar 9, 2011
    6
    I honestly don't understand all the hype behind this, the story never really grabbed me and the characters weren't interesting, however I will give them credit for creating a unique alien movie as opposed to every aliens are invading movie that has been done over and over again, but it's still not that great, an ok movie from beginning to end.
  7. MovieLonely94
    Jun 11, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A young man named Jake Sully takes his late brother's place in a mission on a distant world of Pandora. There he learns that Parker Selfridge wants to drive the native humanoid Na'vi in order collect all the material throughout. In exchange for his legs, Jake helps his new friends use their avatar identities find the Na'vi, but he gets lost along the way and finally finds the tribe. As he begins to bond with the tribe and falls in love with the beautiful blue alien, Neytiri, little does he know that Colonel Quaritch determines the destroy the Na'vi as he rallys up the tribe for an epic war for the fate of Pandora.

    I caught this in the same month it came out in 3D and was really amazed by it. Then a few months later, I saw it again in 2D that time and enjoyed it again.

    I've been told by a lot of people that this movie plagerized Dances with Wolves, Pocahontas, The Last Samurai, and Ferngully: The Last Rainforest, but that doesn't apply the fact that this is different from the others. IMO, for a action/science fiction and a love movie, I liked it and I called it "One of the best movies ever made" and if some of you hate it for its plagerism, that's fine.

    As for the rest of this movie, I liked a lot about it. The acting was excellent, the storyline was well-pace and put together, the visuals were very awesome to look at even though its not from Industrial Light and Magic and Sony Imageworks, the science was very interesting, the action scenes were unique and epic, and the James Horner music score (pop song "I See You" included) was memorable and had a lot of emotion to it which makes it even more memorable. Oh, and James Cameron's directing was very neat and creative, so that's worth saying much.

    Avatar is James Cameron's highest grossing movie and it is in no doubt one of the best action/science fiction movies ever made. Can't wait for the sequels. Keep up the good work, James.

    9/10    … Expand
  8. 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.
  9. 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!
  10. 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%.
  11. 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
  12. Halfwelshman
    Jun 15, 2011
    8
    It may be a long while before another cinematic experience as involving as this emerges. In 3D it is absolutely breath-taking. Though I'm not generally a fan of this latest craze (there have been very few examples of well-used 3D), Avatar really does show the technology's potential. You are transported to a completely believable alien world - you can almost feel Pandora's air on your face. The environmental message, while not by any means new, is presented convincingly, and with aplomb. Sam Worthington also proves himself as a credible leading man. The plot is uncreative, however - let's be honest, it's Pocahontas in space. And why "unobtainium", Jim, why? Cliched and with a couple of missteps it may be, but by God Avatar is a thing of beauty.… Expand
  13. 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.
  14. 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
  15. ERG1008
    Aug 19, 2010
    7
    Mining Corporation after deposits on alien planet, team are sent down to inhibit the planet in native form via Avatar program, things go wrong, man befriends tribe, learns their ways, fights the evil corporate machine.
    Competent yet cliched sci-fi action fest which has plenty of thrills & spills over its 2 and a half hours.
    The CGI is very well done, as are the action sequences with the bi    g fight at the end the standout.
    Where it does fall down is the awful dialogue, the ridiculous stereotypical militia & the story isn't exactly a new concept & pretty predictable.    … Expand
  16. 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.
  17. Ravens1294
    Jun 3, 2013
    8
    A good action film that is a little too long. Ending was pretty good and the plot was fine. It's overrated when you cal it the best film of 2009, but it was still good.
  18. ryancarroll88
    Aug 27, 2010
    9
    I had heard a lot about "Avatar" before seeing it, and the general complaint from most was the movie's lack of originality. Having seen the movie, I would agree that the premise is nowhere near unique, but to me originality shouldn't be the basis for judging the quality of a film. More than anything a truly great movie should be striking, and Avatar is precisely that. James Cameron used his budget ($237m) to create one of the most engrossing environments to ever grace the screen, and pushed the 3D technology (which I don't even like) to the limit. The result is pure spectacle; behind me in the movie theater there was a family with three children and throughout the 2 1/2 hours there were constant exclamations of "Wow!" and "Oohh!" I would have been slightly annoyed had I not realized I wanted to say the same things, and for a movie to revert a hardened critic like me to a world of pure escapist wonder, I have to give the film credit.… Expand
  19. gm101
    Sep 16, 2010
    8
    While I don't think it's the masterpiece everybody's talking about, I still liked it, despite Neytiri being annoying and Sam Wothington's mediocre acting. In fact, I actually saw it in 2d, not 3d!
  20. 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.
  21. 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
  22. Khunter4382
    Apr 28, 2011
    10
    A film that has captured a global audience, Avatar is nothing short of amazing. The effects are unbelievable, the story is arguably original enough, and the performances are good with Saldana giving the best. The film lacks in the score department. While effective, I believe the score could have packed more of an emotional punch. While this film did not capture Best Picture, I think it is all the better for it. Avatar will be remembered far longer than The Hurt Locker. Cameron knows how to make movies that have widespread appeal and that's what making movies is all about.… Expand
  23. ArkonBlade
    Aug 21, 2010
    8
    another good film from james camron . not as great as id hoped and some people have said but its still worth seeing . the main problems i have with this film is its presented in its trailors as this HUGE action film . when in reality there really isnt much action till the last 20 min . considering how long it is think they coulda packed abit more in . the story is entertaining although very predictable . the visuals are just out standing pandora really comes to life . the acting is ok i didnt really feel impressed by any one . its a entertaining film that most of the family can sit down and wach and have a fun time .… Expand
  24. smijatov
    Aug 13, 2010
    10
    Avatar is definitely the best film of the year, and one of my favourite films ever.
    Yes, the dialogue can be cheesy at times, but this film isn't about that: it's about visuals and about actions. And yes, a good film can be about those things, too. It definitely has some good ideas behind it (environmentalism, tradition, old ways of living vs modernisation) and those are definitely present     in the film. The films biggest strength, though, is definitely its visual power. It is so moving and just makes you want to plant a tree, haha. It is just amazing. I'd highly recommend it to everyone.… Expand
  25. 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.
  26. 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
  27. JonnyFendi
    Jan 10, 2011
    8
    Ten years after TITANIC, People are waiting for James Cameron next project. AVATAR is Cameron ambitious project to explore the special effect better than ever. From his filmography, such as: ALIENS (1986), TERMINATOR (1984), TERMINATOR 2: JUDGEMENT DAY (1991), TRUE LIES (1994), and TITANIC, we should not doubt Cameron resume. In 1997, TITANIC won 11 Oscars, to be equal with BEN-HUR (1959) as all-time best achievement in Academy Awards. Casts of AVATAR are: Sam Worthington, Michelle Rodriguez, Giovanni Ribisi, and Sigourney Weaver (who already became Fighter-woman Icon in Cameron ALIENS). Thiz movie has a unique story that reflects the originality of the script. While we were watching AVATAR, made us did not realized that 90% of the movie is actually animation. The technology itself has reached the new level of breakthrough. They definitely already set up the bar so high to be challenge in the coming years. The stunning moment that I like to watch over and over again is the night scene of forest landmark. The forest describe fills with unique plants shine and glow on surroundings. There is something mystique and beautiful about that scene. The great thing I like about AVATAR is that the theme about environmental issue is very strong. Overall, in my opinion, Thiz movie also had a tremendous hidden-philosophy inside about human need, environmental, and human heart. Like I said before, Open your eyes, The dream is over.. Close your eyes, It is still a dream. The Blue-man rocks!


    Visit My Blog on JONNY'S MOVEE : http://jonnyfendi.blogspot.com    … Expand
  28. MichaelD
    Dec 29, 2010
    9
    When I first watched this movie I was blown away. It is probably my favourite movie of all-time but then I seen it a second time and I kind of got a bit more bored than the last time I watched it. It's still a great movie though.
  29. J-Shap
    Aug 25, 2011
    3
    Those who love Avatar love it for its effects and visual design, and blame the others for not concentrating on that element like theyre supposed to. Those who hate Avatar hate it for its recycled story, lame characters, and laughable dialogue, and blame the others for not focusing on the elements that truly matter in any film. Well, both of those sides are right, and both of them can be validly argued. But, the latter side has a better point: Story and characters are what makes great cinema, not great looking effects. And, rather than using effects and images to tell a story (Blade Runner) or stir up interesting ideas (2001), Avatar is only interested in looking good.… Expand
  30. 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.
  31. 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
  32. 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
  33. Spielberg00
    Aug 23, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. AVATAR (or, as some seem to enjoy calling it, "The Blue People Movie", which really should be THE SMURFS, not this) is an adventurous, intense movie, and the best movie you can think of to be the highest-grossing film, both worldwide and in America. Very few parts of this actually truly ticked me off, but there were a few to name: such as near the ending, when it began to get boring (a habit many creative sci-fi films such as even INCEPTION get into); and when Grace (Sigourney Weaver) died.… Expand
  34. 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.
  35. 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
  36. 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
  37. lovemusic
    May 20, 2011
    8
    yea it was fantastic. it was an epic. it had great special effects. the story was lacking. but the overall movie was good. the action scenes were great. it was decent. it had a lot of political overtones in it. which were necessary
  38. Paxster
    Oct 16, 2010
    7
    Avatar delievers with the 3D effects and it really did feel like you were in another world from my point of view but the storyline really dissapointed me, I found it generic and very,very obvious. I guess, mostly the film is really about the out-of-this-world effects and the 3D and the storyline will suffer a bit, but,at points, Twilight was more original. I may be sounding a bit harsh but I just expected a bit more. It was good,but not excellent and not a 10/10.… Expand
  39. 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
  40. 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
  41. GagaForGhibli
    Jun 3, 2012
    10
    Simply Amazing!
    In The Top 3 Movies Of 2009!
  42. FDT44
    Jan 2, 2011
    8
    "Avatar" is as visually intriguing as its impression on the viewer is enjoyable. Its contents make for a recipe that appeals, in atleast one respect, to critics of all facets of interest.
  43. Film_Fanatic_15
    Nov 22, 2010
    10
    Words cannot describe the elements in this fabulous motion picture. The director, James Cameron, has set a new standard for CGI (computer-generated imagery) films. With elements such as Sci-Fi, Action, Romance, and Drama, EVERYONE must see this movie. I have seen 400+ films in my life, and never have I seen a film that was so well produced, a film that you couldn't resist cheering at the end, because you didn't want it to end. This film has the best special effects. No other film has used this type of CGI. This movie has broken a new barrier in the American film industry, just as visiting the moon for the first time. Well done Cameron, well done.… Expand
  44. kingshahid
    Jul 26, 2011
    8
    I never understood the hype behind this movie. It had great special effects and plot (related to nature) and cast a shadow on how humans are diverging from this sync to nature. Although everything was great the hype for it was overrated. The movie was nothing more special than any other movie. It was 4hrs long but I wouldn't say it got boring - it did lag at times though. As always it did have alien sexuality if thats what turns you on - maybe thats what got it hype.… Expand
  45. 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
  46. 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.
  47. 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
  48. 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
  49. YoursTruly
    Nov 9, 2012
    6
    As I once heard it put: "A sight to behold. A story to forget".
  50. JawsPapi87
    Aug 10, 2011
    9
    Despite almost being a spin off of Dances With Wolves, the ridiculously beautiful visuals, believable and likable characters, and successful good Vs. evil theme makes this movie one of 2009's best
  51. 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
  52. 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
  53. CRL
    Jul 26, 2011
    2
    This is the most overrated piece of cinema I've ever seen. All flash, no fire, Avatar combines the special effects of Transformers with a story ripped from Pocahontas and recycled a million time over. The only difference is that, instead of Native Americans, they're giant blue people with tails. Sure, Pandora is a pretty cool place, but that and a bunch of 3D-inflated box office records are all this movie has going for it.… Expand
  54. roddersj04
    Jan 1, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'll admit, with all of the hype that surrounded this film, I was sceptical as to how good it could actually be, and was waiting for it to fail. Oh, how wrong was I? Avatar is a brilliant film. I saw this in 3D earlier this year, and in 2D just the other day, so I feel I can give a review that isn't biased with just one setting of the films view. I'll just clear the air, state the obvious here and leave it in the dust: The film in 3D is an AMAZING experience. The way in which you see these spectacles James Cameron has created, it will burn itself into your memory in a good way. 2D has you focus less on the spectacles and more on things like the story and the characters. Now, to the films actual review Avatar is the tale of Jake Sully, a soldier who takes over from his dead brother on a science project, which temporarily has his mind transferred into an Avatar body, to help the military in their quest to take a substance from Pandora (the planet). From there on, he lives amongst the Na'vi (the race the Avatar body is based upon) and begins doubting where his allegiance lies. I'll admit, the plot isn't anything complex or original. It's been done before, and you can basically guess where the plot's going to go. "They're gonna rebel" "His truth will be discovered" "He's gonna question his motives". And you knew they only introduced the Toruk so Jake could master it. Also, was I the only one who didn't like the guy playing the boss? I mean, he was great in Friends and My Name Is Earl, in comedy roles, but for something serious like this, it just didn't seem to suit him. And the oxygen on Pandora was toxic to the humans. How exactly does it work? Stephen Lang's character had quite a time of exposure to it (when chasing them escaping on the helicopter, when he shot Grace) and seemed fine. And Jake as well. He was exposed for an amount of time, possibly longer, and ended up fine. Anyway, thats the negatives out of the way. Now the positives The world of Pandora and its inhabitants was a marvel to behold, even in 2D. James Cameron has a very creative mind. Just look at all of the creatures, from the Hammerheads, to the four-armed monkeys. Not just that, the technology as well.How info could be moved from one screen to another with just a flick of the wrist, and the handcuffs. I'll say it again, James Cameron is one creative guy, with one hell of an imagination. Shame about his acceptance speeches, though..... The way CGI contrasted with the humans. It didn't seem to contrast much. When (Avatar) Jake was carrying Grace, it didn't seem like one big clash of reality and Computer Generated Images, they seamed together perfectly, like two pieces of a puzzle clicking together. I liked how the characters developed. How Grace went from a no-nonsense **** to how she was warm and a good friend to Jake and Norm. I especially liked how Norm changed from a goofy scientist to him punching out officers and joining in the big battle. The final battle: What a marvel! Just the contrast of the flying Dragons (or whatever they are) versus the gunships. Just basically how it was Nature VS Machinery. I think it's safe to say that there was no shortage of awesomeness within that battle. Shame Tsu'tey was killed off. Just as I was getting to like him. Once Jake first woke up in his Avatar, when he first went from standing up to running through the outdoors, I felt for him because in human form, he's confined to that wheelchair, but as a Na'vi, he's no longer confined. I also felt James Cameron placed some parallels for the Iraq war within the movie. One group going to another land in order to take something that they wish, resulting in a battle. And Stephen Lang! His turn as a villian is quite menacing, especially in the cold hearted way he just bombs the Tree, the home of the Na'vi. I felt that he was the perfect counterfoil for Sam Worthington's Jake Sully. All in all: It may seem like it mainly concentrates on the visuals, and it's plot development may be by numbers, but this is definately a film you must watch!… Expand
  55. MetalMan95
    Oct 28, 2010
    7
    Not totally blown away, but i was thoroughly entertained by it. But the film's strongest point is definitely the visuals. Pandora is beautiful and looks realistic. The story, though unoriginal, is still effective for this film. The dialogue, is bad sometimes, and decent in others. Definitely not a strong point. But if this film needs people to root for, its easy to tell who. If you want 3 hours of great visuals and nothing else, this is your movie.… Expand
  56. juliankleiss
    Jan 7, 2011
    7
    The story is a Science Fiction adaption of Pocahontas. The movie shows that colonialism leads to the destruction of nature due to excessive exploitation of the land, and further to suffering of the native people due to the accompanying displacement of them. Moreover, the movie supports a holistic world view, describing a harmonic interconnection between the indigenous people, flora and fauna. The natives live in harmony with animals and nature. At one point the War on Terror mentality is criticized, when the humans explain their attack as a means of protection from the "savages". However, they were the ones who stole natural resources from foreign soil and threatened the natives in the first place. Fascinating pictures, dramatic showdown.… Expand
  57. 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.
  58. Scorpion
    May 28, 2013
    9
    the script may not be the most innovative or better hefty, but that is where the technical triumphs over the rest, with the effects that the film has another relatively talented cast, the film only presisava a story while doing the technical part rest.
  59. vgmkyle
    Aug 18, 2010
    7
    Good film by action standards, but the plot had me sleeping until the action heated up. Very impressive action visuals -- obviously, but the rest of the film might leave you feeling bored.
  60. TheNewSpielberg
    May 1, 2011
    6
    A strange mixture of Dances With Wolves and Aliens makes for a an equally bizarre but visually stunning screen epic that unfortunately falls flat on its face when it comes to plot and characters. A crippled soldier is sent undercover disguised as a blue smurf to convince the natives to move out of their hometown so that the government can obtain a rare and valuable substance known jokingly as "unobtainium". Directed by James Cameron, the same man who swept the world with the 1997 epic Titanic. A movie best experienced in 3-D. All in all, good entertainment.… Expand
  61. jfrotylpe532
    Dec 22, 2012
    8
    Mind-blowing special effects and amazing screenplay however calling this movie the most epic movie ever is overrated.
  62. TheGorilla
    Aug 26, 2011
    4
    Congratulations to the special effects and the graphics and the 3D! But, the movie itself is so ridiculous and cheesy. It's terrible. James Cameron can't write a good script. This could have been done a lot better. And, honestly, I'm not interested in watching sequels.
  63. nboley08
    Aug 16, 2010
    10
    Forget about plot development and storytelling; it's all about the visuals here. I mean sure, the story is somewhat interesting and the characters have redeemable qualities, but this about blowing your eyeballs out of their sockets by using either dazzling beauty or monstrous explosions. If you let it be what it is, "Avatar" is a ton of fun, maybe the best film of 2009.
  64. Judddy
    Oct 5, 2010
    10
    Visually mindblowing and irresistibly exciting, James Cameron has created a masterpiece that is a revolution to the film industry. The story may not be new, but carries a strong moral message and has an emotional love story in the background. It must be seen in 3D for the visual splendour to be at its prime effectiveness. I sincerely hope that its sequels do not ruin such a fabulous movie, one which (despite 'The Hurt Locker's brilliance) should have won the Oscar for 'Best Picture'.… Expand
  65. KendylKlownfish
    Mar 15, 2011
    8
    Avatar may not impress all audiences on a narrative level, however, its breathtaking visuals, lavishing colors, and groundbreaking special effects certainly proves James Cameron's knack for filmmaking.
  66. 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.
  67. sreekiran
    May 5, 2011
    8
    a perfect screenplay with emotions tragedy some edge of seat scenes and a touching climax. the cast performance is good. but what makes this movie a blockbuster!! the main reasons include the perfect background score during the scenes that motivate the viewers. the picture perfect cinematography and the most visual effects ever seen. editing is also cool and does not drag. i was not bored anywhere. it was a perfect movie and one of my best action movies.… Expand
  68. Tubie
    Nov 2, 2010
    6
    If you didn't get the chance to watch this in theaters, I feel sorry for you. The non 3D version simply isn't as good. Even on a 1080p screen it shows that this movie was more about the experience of watching 3D well done and not the story in the movie itself.
  69. JAM123
    Jul 19, 2011
    2
    I thought that this movie was really bad. It was incredibly long and barely kept my attention. The special effects were cool but that doesn't change the fact that all James Cameron did was make a futuristic remake of Dances With wolves. NOT a good movie.
  70. 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
  71. 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.
  72. 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
  73. LondonTruelove
    Nov 11, 2010
    10
    Lives up to all the hype, a must watch for everyone. James Cameron is a genius and Avatar proves it. It's a long film but it's one of the best I've ever seen.
  74. ovi_bz
    Jan 7, 2011
    6
    A very nice 3d movie with a lot of effects and well done graphics. But the story it really sucks. I was very very disappointed after watching the movie. Nothing was original in the idea: the Matrix two worlds, the tree with the eternal life where all the spirit are gathered, the eco 'not to destroy the forests' idea.... very, very disappointed.
  75. rollingstone82
    Aug 13, 2010
    8
    A nice and entertaining movie that however sets its priorities on visuals rather than characters and storyline.

    I remember pre-release talk about Avatar. People already called it a colossal failure. The idea of "blue-cat people" and a $200 million budget was probably convincing. But James Cameron delivers yet again.

    Avatar is visually the most beautiful film ever made. Every piece of bac    kground is striking. The forests and mountains are created to give a unique and enchanting atmosphere rather than something earthly. The various beasts that roam are given such detail and life-like movement that even the scariest are a beauty on the outlook. Even the labs feel bright. The technology displayed leaves one in awe. It is so amazing that the idea of avatars becomes immediately delightful. And 3D? Avatar was built to look that way. Realistic fiction at its height.

    The soundtrack sounds tribal and classical with the drum pounds and the orchestra pieces. And it adds to the breathtaking experience visualized in Avatar.

    The storyline is pretty basic, which is a gift and a curse. It's a gift because there are no complex details to focus on. It's a curse because it is cliched. But the real reason the story falls a bit is because of a lack of full character development. Cameron unfortunately has not given enough time for the characters to grow instead he shows off the dazzling visuals. Jake Sully's transformation of character feels flawed and incomplete. At the end, it did not quite feel as though he had grown into the avatar. And the military is shown more as sadistic and greedy, something very anti-American. Sigourney Weaver's character is at first harsh and then suddenly sympathetic towards the Na'vi. That change isn't calculated well enough.

    James Cameron's previous blockbuster, Titanic, was similarly criticized before and eventually acclaimed. Whereas Titanic had good story and developed characters and stunning visuals, Avatar succeeds because of the visuals solely. However, it is still a worthy movie to watch.    … Expand
  76. 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
  77. Razv
    Oct 11, 2010
    9
    The visual effects are breathtaking and the directing is incredible. The only negative thing about it would be the plot, which is simple and common, but all the rest, visuals, sound, directing, actors, are very, very good.
  78. 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
  79. DeVr33z
    Aug 11, 2010
    8
    Not quite as ambitious as I had hoped it would be when I first heard of it, but still an excellent movie. It's a great film less for the story itself than for the way it celebrates all the things people love about the space-western genre.
  80. rodericrinehart
    Aug 14, 2010
    10
    My only wish is that they would have made the movie an hour longer. You don't want to leave Pandora. What a truly amazing creation of a world and culture.
  81. 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
  82. Ruler101
    Dec 2, 2010
    9
    Along with the graphics in this movie i personally think this was a near perfect movie!! The storyline was similar to any like it with the enemy becoming friend but there was more to it i think. Showing the love of earth and others though money is there. Understanding others before destroying them is more important.
  83. Hasriona
    Jul 20, 2011
    7
    It can't be denied that this film will revolutionize the special effects of the future, but films with a focus on special effects tend to be the ones which hope that the effects alone can carry the film. Fortunately for Avatar, it has a generally solid plot to back up those effects, but I wouldn't necessarily call the acting top notch. It's incredible fun, and it has created a beautiful world brought to life in 3D, but it needs a little work.… Expand
  84. 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.
  85. NF123
    Aug 11, 2010
    4
    Looks good but painfully cliched. I for one would recommend a rent just to see lovely it does really look, but it doesn't take long to find how shallow the charachters truly are
  86. 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.
  87. 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
  88. ascoltami86
    May 27, 2013
    1
    Everything is horrible. This alien, antagonist, helicopters, both protagonist and antagonist's weapons, arrow, spear, robot, giant knife, story. What a waste of money. What's worst is there will be a sequel.
  89. ESS180
    Nov 13, 2010
    10
    Visualy, I thought the special effects were spot on, even the motion capture animation was brilliant.

    James Cameron did a spot on job making this movie.

    I loved the animation and the action sequences.

    Probably my 3rd favourite film of all time.
  90. 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.
  91. 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
  92. 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
  93. J42Hmusic
    Sep 1, 2011
    7
    A film which certainly relies too much on its special effects. Peel back the visuals and you get a weedy storyline, ending in a an overextended battle. Having said this, I love the feeling of old against new traditions and the Avatar World is incredibly creative and involving. The music is also very magical.
  94. spacecaptain
    Jun 11, 2011
    2
    Cameron continues his time honored method of creating films. Swipe the high concepts from a half dozen groundbreaking original works, glue them together with a lowest common denominator script, add money, a lot of money, an extraordinary amount of money, hype thoroughly, make more $$ back, and take credit for everything. Hail to the King. Avatar looks incredible, yadda, but to say the story is derivative would imply the origins of its ideas got their due. They never have in film, and now they won't because Cameron robbed the cradle.… Expand
  95. FrozenStar90
    Nov 3, 2010
    10
    An absolute revolution in film making. James Cameron and his team have crafted the most detailed, involving world in movie history. Yes, the plot is a little recycled and thin, but it still proves to be timely and moving. Fascinating and completely mesmerizing. Overrated? Absolutely not.
  96. Susano
    Sep 2, 2010
    7
    First time watching this your not going to have any negative points, as it will win you over with graphical wizardry. And boy, are the graphics good. With very highly realistic environments, seeing it in 3D on the big screen is something magical. Assessing the film afterwards reveals a highly weak and wooden story that is just holding the film together with the visuals. Though the storyline is utter guff, the 'wow' moments might just make this a great film. Just.… Expand
  97. Roeyl
    Jul 21, 2011
    8
    If this movie actually cared for other stuff than the art, the designs and the SFX (which are all fabulous); I would give it a perfect 10. Unfortunately, the story is incredibly average, not bad, but average. I truly expected more from the director of Titanic, The Terminator, Aliens, The Abyss, True Lies... etc; but hey, congrats to the man: Avatar is the highest grossing movie of all time ($2,782,275,172), and Titanic is second. So hat off to James Cameron. But if only they had spent so much money ($237 million) for a script that was at least worth it.… Expand
  98. 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
  99. joelschnick
    Aug 24, 2011
    10
    Yes the story was mediocre... but the execution of the special effects & scenery was absolutely breathtaking. Got to see it in IMAX 3D and was absolutely stunned at what technology can do to an average story. I am glad I live in America.
  100. 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.
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Critic Reviews

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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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