Pretty but lacking substance

Rating: 6/10 (31 December 2009)

Firstly let me state that Avatar is not as 'bad' a film as some people make it out to be. That said neither is it a good film. Avatar is a leap forward in graphics but sadly not in any other area. The CGI is spectacular CGI. It does not create realism however, it creates a very good CGI world. What I am saying here is that you are constantly aware of the CGI environment and, sorry if I sound old fashioned here, but isn't suspension of disbelief a fundamental part of cinema viewing? the charm and unique nature of Avatar is its technology and you must accept that this film for what it is before condemning or praising it too hard. Take out the clever CGI (which time and familiarity will do as it does with all effects based films) and you are left with a rather preachy movie that has some very juvenile and often clunky dialogue. The 'we are all one with our planet' message is rammed down our throats so much that I began to feel preached at by a giant smurf, and as I watching it in 3D he kept leaning into my popcorn to do it. Don't expect too much, accept Avatar as a glorified Saturday morning keep the kids quiet film and it works just fine.