Very overrated

Rating: 5/10 (20 December 2009)

This movie has great special effects and a cool central sci-fi theme; the concept of an "avatar." 9 or 10 stars for each. But unfortunately the movie lacks any cohesive plot, has cookie-cutter characters and cliché dialog. This lack of originality destroys what should be emotionally charged moments and creates painfully stereotyped/racist portrayals. Also, the beauty of the digital animation is undermined by uninspired cinematography. So 10 stars for animation, but everything else was below average: 3 or 4 stars each for direction, writing, cinematography, plot, etc.
Overall, this is a bad movie which contains one or two precious gems: the avatar concept is wonderful fantasy, and the images are stunning.