Question: What the quality of color?

"Avatar", the largest-grossing movie of all time and has cemented James Cameron's status as a writer and director who has been able to surpass his original box office record with his 1997 film "Titanic".Created with an outstanding budget of $237 million, needless to say that James Cameron has laid it all on the line with this film.  It would become a financial disaster or a goldmine.  And sure enough, "Avatar" has become the latter.  The film has grossed over $2.7 billion and with this Blu-ray and DVD release, during the first two days of its sale, it has sold over $5 million copies.Needless to say, this is the easily James Cameron's masterpiece.  Avoiding anything that resembles sci-fi kitsch with the use of its CG and becoming just eye candy, "Avatar" is a fantastic film that deserves to be seen and this is coming from a reviewer who was more than caustic towards this film before reviewing this Blu-ray release.VIDEO:"Avatar" is presented in 1080p High Definition (widescreen 1:78:1) and is the true definition of reference quality video.  Detail and colors are just amazing.  The close up of the CG work looks so realistic and are so remarkably detailed that it looks as if Cameron and crew have achieved CG perfection.  You see skin pores, the application of the pain on the skin, the sweat glistening on the characters.  How do they do that?  There is amazing detail in land of Pandora as each step and each touch produces this light around a plant or surrounding and the colors just glow and look fantastic in HD.And it just doesn't stop there.  There is detail everywhere.  From the mecha vehicles that Spec-Ops command, the large vehicle units, the creatures on Pandora are shown with a large assortment of colors.This is the best looking film on Blu-ray that has come since the first release of Blu-ray discs.  I know this is a statement that is hard to believe especially with so many fantastic reference quality releases on BD but "Avatar" has set the bar up high of how gorgeous a film can look on Blu-ray.  Incredible!AUDIO & SUBTITLES:"Avatar" is presented in English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, English Dolby Surround, English Decruption Audio, Spanish, French and Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital.  And you think that "Avatar" has raised the bar for picture quality, the audio for "Avatar" is equally fantastic!Immersive.  This is the word I describe this film as the DTS-HD Master Audio lossless audio track takes control of your soundscape and sound is coming from the front and center channels, surround channels are active throughout the film. May it be the forest ambiance, creatures rustling in the leaves, large animals heard flying above and of course, the pulse-pound action as the LFE is fully engaged.  Expect your subwoofer (and literally all channels) to go on over-drive as the film, especially during the second half of "Avatar" makes those scenes come alive.  The vehicles flying and the rotors blowing the trees, missiles firing and causing destruction and trees falling everywhere and the scream of the Omaticaya's as they are losing their home.Again... Incredible!As for subtitles, "Avatar" is presented in English SDH, Spanish and Portuguese.SPECIAL FEATURES:"Avatar" does not come with any special features but more than likely we will see a ultimate edition coming out later this year.EXTRAS:"Avatar" comes with a slipcase and a DVD version of the film.  The DVD is presented in Widescreen 1:78:1 and Dolby Digital 5.1, English, Spanish and French Dolby Surround.JUDGMENT CALL:When "Avatar" was released in theaters, I admit that I took a caustic approach to the film.It's not that dislike James Cameron films because I have enjoyed many of his films but it deals with my feelings of technology and films infused by CG that the more I see a sci-fi film utilizing it to the nth degree, I look at these films as becoming kitsch.  Granted, I'm not expecting the return of thousands of talents and epic filmmaking along the reigns of D.W. Griffith's "Intolerance" but when I saw the trailer for "Avatar", I was sensing CG eye candy ala "Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen".With so many films being released on 3-D (which I have been told that "Avatar" must be seen in 3-D), in some ways, I just want to watch my movies straight.  It's not the 3-D that makes me excited, it's the good ol' fashioned form of cinema.  But with today's technology, for a sci-fi film, I'm expecting a beautiful scenery in this new world, unique characters, good acting, well-paced and a well-written storyline and most of all, because it's James Cameron who has raised the bar with "Titanic", I expect the best and not sci-fi kitsch.Of course, "Avatar" has gone on to breaking records and fan anticipation of the Blu-ray and DVD release are high (despite the first release being barebones) and upon receiving my review copy, I admit that I was curious about the film.  What will James Cameron bring to the big screen in terms of character development, storyline and what message does he have for the viewer.  Without it becoming an all eye candy film.Well, let's just say that after I watched "Avatar", I was blown away.  Yes, "Avatar" is eye candy but it's pleasing eye candy that has a strong storyline behind it.  Films such as the "Star Wars" or "Lord of the Rings" films have been able to take the viewer and let them believe they are away from reality and you know these worlds.  That is why so many decades later, people still know the settings, the surroundings of these films and the same can be said about "Avatar".Like those films that will forever be etched in the minds of movie fans, "Avatar" will do the same as people will remember the lush world of Pandora, it's creatures but most of all the Na'vi.  Technology is to the point where creatures or other life forms do not need to don a rubber suit or wear excessive make-up to make one think that being is from another planet.  Somehow the wizards were able to take the likeness if Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Zoey Saldana and make the characters of Jake Sully and his avatar, Neytiri and Dr. Grace Augustine come alive.The detail of this film is amazing.  On Blu-ray, it's fantastic!  The detail and vibrant colors come alive in full effect.  The characters on both the human and Na'vi side are believable and the acting is not forced.  I admit that very early on the film, I thought about the character of Jake Sully (and no offense to Sam Worthington) but we were going to get something similar to Channing Tatum's Duke ("G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra") and deal with a character that was concerned about his own virility and place as a soldier on Pandora but that is not the case.  Worthington's Sully is a man is a disabled man who has found new life using his Avatar, the ability to take part in lifestyle of the Omaticaya, embrace it and find love with Neytiri, the planet and its inhabitants.The chemistry between the characters of Jake Sully and Neytiri is natural but works extremely well.  And for fans of James Cameron films, to see Sigourney Weaver in "Avatar" is a nostalgic blessing.  She may not be as forceful as her character of Ripley in the "Alien" films but her role as Dr. Grace Augustine was well-done.In fact, I felt the movie and it's pacing for a longer film was well-done, the viewer is immersed in the world but also gets to see political corruption and greed come to play and how Cameron is able to work this film and make it exciting and believable underneath all the CG is quite amazing.  What the "Star Wars" films were to me back in the late '70s and early '80s, "Avatar" was a film that captivated my attention throughout its 162 minutes and made me appreciate what sci-fi films today can accomplish (granted, not many films will ever get the budget that Cameron was able to achieve with this film).But as this film has received mostly positive reviews, I was surprised to read "Salon" critic Stephanie Zacharek's opening paragraph of her review.  Zacherek writes, "The problem with taking 15 years to bring audiences the future of filmmaking is that someone else is bound to get to the future before you do. And while there are certain technical effects in James Cameron's "Avatar" that aren't quite like anything we've ever seen before, the movie is hardly a historical event, or even a grand achievement. It is  a very expensive-looking, very flashy entertainment, albeit one that groans under the weight of clumsy storytelling in the second half and features some of the most godawful dialogue this side of `Attack of the Clones'."I disagree with Zacharek's comment of the movie is a grand achievement.  The film has broken box office records worldwide and now has its place in the record books as the #1 earning film in the world.  Granted, for critics...many probably didn't think early on that James Cameron could repeat his box office success that he did with "Titanic", let alone beat that record with a sci-fi film.  But he did and if that is not an grand achievement, I don't know what Zacharek was expecting. Even if you remove yourself from the earnings, the CG work is amazing.  The cinematography is amazing and just the amount of detail on the characters at this time is phenomenal.  And when you think about its competition during the Oscar year, "Avatar" was deserving in winning "Best Achievement in Art Direction", "Best Achievement in Cinematography" and "Best Achievement in Visual Effects".She goes on to say that the film was under the weight of clumsy storytelling in the second half and like many sci-fi films, there must be action.  You know early on that there is a war coming between the humans and the Na'vi.  It's expected, it's going to happen and yes, you are going to lose some of that emotional connect through those sequences.  And the "godawful dialogue", I did mention this earlier on in my review that I felt that the character of Jake Skully was getting near Channing Tatum's Duke but for "Avatar", it works. Skully is introduced in the beginning as someone completely opposite of his intellectual brother and it shows.But similar to Zacharek, I was surprised that "Village Voice" critic J. Hoberman would feel the same about the second half as well.  Hoberman writes, "For the first 45 minutes, I'm thinking: Metropolis!--and wondering how to amend ballots already cast in polls of the year's best movies. Then the 3-D wears off, and the long second act kicks in."I found the comment to be quite interesting and for the most part, I can see where Hoberman is coming from in comparisons of both films.  Where the Fritz Lang epic featured a man from the upper-level associating with and underground woman in which the underground has been subjective to corporate corruption to its highest level, I see the connection but at the same time, comparing "Metropolis" and "Avatar" is comparing apples to oranges.  Where both films feature a revolt, "Metropolis" denizens have lived their monotonous life the same every day and are not warriors.  In "Avatar", the Na'vi are losing their homeland, their planet is being destroyed and they have either the choice to give up and move to another area or fight.  And what kind of film would "Avatar" be if we watched these warriors being displaced?The second half needed that battle and like "Metropolis", where Freder joins Maria in the grand fight, Sully joining the Na'vi was just right!  That battle needed to be epic and for an audience who have sat that long at the theater for something grand to happen, this was their pay off. Yes, the film is pragmatic but for a sci-fi film, it works and definitely not kitsch.So, I came away enjoying "Avatar" much more than I expected.  The Blu-ray delivered in picture and audio quality.  Special features are none but similar to "Sin City" which came out with a near barebones DVD release was then given a magnificent Blu-ray release much later and it's expected the same will happen to "Avatar".  I am sure like the video releases of "Titanic" and "Terminator 2', Cameron has a lot of planned for the upcoming ultimate or special edition of "Avatar".  This release was just to satisfy the masses who have enjoyed the film and definitely looks and sounds incredible in HD.I know many people may hold off until the better version of "Avatar" is released on Blu-ray but for now, if you want to enjoy "Avatar" now, you can.  James Cameron's "Avatar" is the best looking film on Blu-ray since the release films on Blu-ray disc.  Although, this is not the ultimate release of "Avatar" and does not include any special features, in terms of picture and audio quality alone, "Avatar" has not only broken box office records, it has raised the bar on what perfection looks and sounds like on Blu-ray.Highly recommended!

Answer: the

<hl> "Avatar", the largest-grossing movie of all time and has cemented James Cameron's status as a writer and director who has been able to surpass his original box office record with his 1997 film "Titanic". <hl> Created with an outstanding budget of $237 million, needless to say that James Cameron has laid it all on the line with this film. It would become a financial disaster or a goldmine. And sure enough, "Avatar" has become the latter. The film has grossed over $2.7 billion and with this Blu-ray and DVD release, during the first two days of its sale, it has sold over $5 million copies. Needless to say, this is the easily James Cameron's masterpiece. Avoiding anything that resembles sci-fi kitsch with the use of its CG and becoming just eye candy, "Avatar" is a fantastic film that deserves to be seen and this is coming from a reviewer who was more than caustic towards this film before reviewing this Blu-ray release. VIDEO:"Avatar" is presented in 1080p High Definition (widescreen 1:78:1) and is the true definition of reference quality video. Detail and colors are just amazing. The close up of the CG work looks so realistic and are so remarkably detailed that it looks as if Cameron and crew have achieved CG perfection. You see skin pores, the application of the pain on the skin, the sweat glistening on the characters. How do they do that? There is amazing detail in land of Pandora as each step and each touch produces this light around a plant or surrounding and the colors just glow and look fantastic in HD.And it just doesn't stop there. There is detail everywhere. From the mecha vehicles that Spec-Ops command, the large vehicle units, the creatures on Pandora are shown with a large assortment of colors. This is the best looking film on Blu-ray that has come since the first release of Blu-ray discs. I know this is a statement that is hard to believe especially with so many fantastic reference quality releases on BD but "Avatar" has set the bar up high of how gorgeous a film can look on Blu-ray. Incredible!AUDIO & SUBTITLES:"Avatar" is presented in English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, English Dolby Surround, English Decruption Audio, Spanish, French and Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital. And you think that "Avatar" has raised the bar for picture quality, the audio for "Avatar" is equally fantastic!Immersive. This is the word I describe this film as the DTS-HD Master Audio lossless audio track takes control of your soundscape and sound is coming from the front and center channels, surround channels are active throughout the film. May it be the forest ambiance, creatures rustling in the leaves, large animals heard flying above and of course, the pulse-pound action as the LFE is fully engaged. Expect your subwoofer (and literally all channels) to go on over-drive as the film, especially during the second half of "Avatar" makes those scenes come alive. The vehicles flying and the rotors blowing the trees, missiles firing and causing destruction and trees falling everywhere and the scream of the Omaticaya's as they are losing their home. Again... Incredible!As for subtitles, "Avatar" is presented in English SDH, Spanish and Portuguese. SPECIAL FEATURES:"Avatar" does not come with any special features but more than likely we will see a ultimate edition coming out later this year. EXTRAS:"Avatar" comes with a slipcase and a DVD version of the film. The DVD is presented in Widescreen 1:78:1 and Dolby Digital 5.1, English, Spanish and French Dolby Surround. JUDGMENT CALL: When "Avatar" was released in theaters, I admit that I took a caustic approach to the film. It's not that dislike James Cameron films because I have enjoyed many of his films but it deals with my feelings of technology and films infused by CG that the more I see a sci-fi film utilizing it to the nth degree, I look at these films as becoming kitsch. Granted, I'm not expecting the return of thousands of talents and epic filmmaking along the reigns of D.W. Griffith's "Intolerance" but when I saw the trailer for "Avatar", I was sensing CG eye candy ala "Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen". With so many films being released on 3-D (which I have been told that "Avatar" must be seen in 3-D), in some ways, I just want to watch my movies straight. It's not the 3-D that makes me excited, it's the good ol' fashioned form of cinema. But with today's technology, for a sci-fi film, I'm expecting a beautiful scenery in this new world, unique characters, good acting, well-paced and a well-written storyline and most of all, because it's James Cameron who has raised the bar with "Titanic", I expect the best and not sci-fi kitsch. Of course, "Avatar" has gone on to breaking records and fan anticipation of the Blu-ray and DVD release are high (despite the first release being barebones) and upon receiving my review copy, I admit that I was curious about the film. What will James Cameron bring to the big screen in terms of character development, storyline and what message does he have for the viewer. Without it becoming an all eye candy film. Well, let's just say that after I watched "Avatar", I was blown away. Yes, "Avatar" is eye candy but it's pleasing eye candy that has a strong storyline behind it. Films such as the "Star Wars" or "Lord of the Rings" films have been able to take the viewer and let them believe they are away from reality and you know these worlds. That is why so many decades later, people still know the settings, the surroundings of these films and the same can be said about "Avatar". Like those films that will forever be etched in the minds of movie fans, "Avatar" will do the same as people will remember the lush world of Pandora, it's creatures but most of all the Na'vi. Technology is to the point where creatures or other life forms do not need to don a rubber suit or wear excessive make-up to make one think that being is from another planet. Somehow the wizards were able to take the likeness if Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Zoey Saldana and make the characters of Jake Sully and his avatar, Neytiri and Dr. Grace Augustine come alive. The detail of this film is amazing. On Blu-ray, it's fantastic! The detail and vibrant colors come alive in full effect. The characters on both the human and Na'vi side are believable and the acting is not forced. I admit that very early on the film, I thought about the character of Jake Sully (and no offense to Sam Worthington) but we were going to get something similar to Channing Tatum's Duke ("G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra") and deal with a character that was concerned about his own virility and place as a soldier on Pandora but that is not the case. Worthington's Sully is a man is a disabled man who has found new life using his Avatar, the ability to take part in lifestyle of the Omaticaya, embrace it and find love with Neytiri, the planet and its inhabitants. The chemistry between the characters of Jake Sully and Neytiri is natural but works extremely well. And for fans of James Cameron films, to see Sigourney Weaver in "Avatar" is a nostalgic blessing. She may not be as forceful as her character of Ripley in the "Alien" films but her role as Dr. Grace Augustine was well-done. In fact, I felt the movie and it's pacing for a longer film was well-done, the viewer is immersed in the world but also gets to see political corruption and greed come to play and how Cameron is able to work this film and make it exciting and believable underneath all the CG is quite amazing. What the "Star Wars" films were to me back in the late '70s and early '80s, "Avatar" was a film that captivated my attention throughout its 162 minutes and made me appreciate what sci-fi films today can accomplish (granted, not many films will ever get the budget that Cameron was able to achieve with this film).But as this film has received mostly positive reviews, I was surprised to read "Salon" critic Stephanie Zacharek's opening paragraph of her review. Zacherek writes, "The problem with taking 15 years to bring audiences the future of filmmaking is that someone else is bound to get to the future before you do. And while there are certain technical effects in James Cameron's "Avatar" that aren't quite like anything we've ever seen before, the movie is hardly a historical event, or even a grand achievement. It is a very expensive-looking, very flashy entertainment, albeit one that groans under the weight of clumsy storytelling in the second half and features some of the most godawful dialogue this side of `Attack of the Clones'. "I disagree with Zacharek's comment of the movie is a grand achievement. The film has broken box office records worldwide and now has its place in the record books as the #1 earning film in the world. Granted, for critics... many probably didn't think early on that James Cameron could repeat his box office success that he did with "Titanic", let alone beat that record with a sci-fi film. But he did and if that is not an grand achievement, I don't know what Zacharek was expecting. Even if you remove yourself from the earnings, the CG work is amazing. The cinematography is amazing and just the amount of detail on the characters at this time is phenomenal. And when you think about its competition during the Oscar year, "Avatar" was deserving in winning "Best Achievement in Art Direction", "Best Achievement in Cinematography" and "Best Achievement in Visual Effects". She goes on to say that the film was under the weight of clumsy storytelling in the second half and like many sci-fi films, there must be action. You know early on that there is a war coming between the humans and the Na'vi. It's expected, it's going to happen and yes, you are going to lose some of that emotional connect through those sequences. And the "godawful dialogue", I did mention this earlier on in my review that I felt that the character of Jake Skully was getting near Channing Tatum's Duke but for "Avatar", it works. Skully is introduced in the beginning as someone completely opposite of his intellectual brother and it shows. But similar to Zacharek, I was surprised that "Village Voice" critic J. Hoberman would feel the same about the second half as well. Hoberman writes, "For the first 45 minutes, I'm thinking: Metropolis!--and wondering how to amend ballots already cast in polls of the year's best movies. Then the 3-D wears off, and the long second act kicks in. "I found the comment to be quite interesting and for the most part, I can see where Hoberman is coming from in comparisons of both films. Where the Fritz Lang epic featured a man from the upper-level associating with and underground woman in which the underground has been subjective to corporate corruption to its highest level, I see the connection but at the same time, comparing "Metropolis" and "Avatar" is comparing apples to oranges. Where both films feature a revolt, "Metropolis" denizens have lived their monotonous life the same every day and are not warriors. In "Avatar", the Na'vi are losing their homeland, their planet is being destroyed and they have either the choice to give up and move to another area or fight. And what kind of film would "Avatar" be if we watched these warriors being displaced?The second half needed that battle and like "Metropolis", where Freder joins Maria in the grand fight, Sully joining the Na'vi was just right! That battle needed to be epic and for an audience who have sat that long at the theater for something grand to happen, this was their pay off. Yes, the film is pragmatic but for a sci-fi film, it works and definitely not kitsch. So, I came away enjoying "Avatar" much more than I expected. The Blu-ray delivered in picture and audio quality. Special features are none but similar to "Sin City" which came out with a near barebones DVD release was then given a magnificent Blu-ray release much later and it's expected the same will happen to "Avatar". I am sure like the video releases of "Titanic" and "Terminator 2', Cameron has a lot of planned for the upcoming ultimate or special edition of "Avatar". This release was just to satisfy the masses who have enjoyed the film and definitely looks and sounds incredible in HD.I know many people may hold off until the better version of "Avatar" is released on Blu-ray but for now, if you want to enjoy "Avatar" now, you can. James Cameron's "Avatar" is the best looking film on Blu-ray since the release films on Blu-ray disc. Although, this is not the ultimate release of "Avatar" and does not include any special features, in terms of picture and audio quality alone, "Avatar" has not only broken box office records, it has raised the bar on what perfection looks and sounds like on Blu-ray. Highly recommended!

"Avatar", <hl> the <hl> largest-grossing movie of all time and has cemented James Cameron's status as a writer and director who has been able to surpass his original box office record with his 1997 film "Titanic".Created with an outstanding budget of $237 million, needless to say that James Cameron has laid it all on the line with this film. It would become a financial disaster or a goldmine. And sure enough, "Avatar" has become the latter. The film has grossed over $2.7 billion and with this Blu-ray and DVD release, during the first two days of its sale, it has sold over $5 million copies.Needless to say, this is the easily James Cameron's masterpiece. Avoiding anything that resembles sci-fi kitsch with the use of its CG and becoming just eye candy, "Avatar" is a fantastic film that deserves to be seen and this is coming from a reviewer who was more than caustic towards this film before reviewing this Blu-ray release.VIDEO:"Avatar" is presented in 1080p High Definition (widescreen 1:78:1) and is the true definition of reference quality video. Detail and colors are just amazing. The close up of the CG work looks so realistic and are so remarkably detailed that it looks as if Cameron and crew have achieved CG perfection. You see skin pores, the application of the pain on the skin, the sweat glistening on the characters. How do they do that? There is amazing detail in land of Pandora as each step and each touch produces this light around a plant or surrounding and the colors just glow and look fantastic in HD.And it just doesn't stop there. There is detail everywhere. From the mecha vehicles that Spec-Ops command, the large vehicle units, the creatures on Pandora are shown with a large assortment of colors.This is the best looking film on Blu-ray that has come since the first release of Blu-ray discs. I know this is a statement that is hard to believe especially with so many fantastic reference quality releases on BD but "Avatar" has set the bar up high of how gorgeous a film can look on Blu-ray. Incredible!AUDIO & SUBTITLES:"Avatar" is presented in English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, English Dolby Surround, English Decruption Audio, Spanish, French and Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital. And you think that "Avatar" has raised the bar for picture quality, the audio for "Avatar" is equally fantastic!Immersive. This is the word I describe this film as the DTS-HD Master Audio lossless audio track takes control of your soundscape and sound is coming from the front and center channels, surround channels are active throughout the film. May it be the forest ambiance, creatures rustling in the leaves, large animals heard flying above and of course, the pulse-pound action as the LFE is fully engaged. Expect your subwoofer (and literally all channels) to go on over-drive as the film, especially during the second half of "Avatar" makes those scenes come alive. The vehicles flying and the rotors blowing the trees, missiles firing and causing destruction and trees falling everywhere and the scream of the Omaticaya's as they are losing their home.Again... Incredible!As for subtitles, "Avatar" is presented in English SDH, Spanish and Portuguese.SPECIAL FEATURES:"Avatar" does not come with any special features but more than likely we will see a ultimate edition coming out later this year.EXTRAS:"Avatar" comes with a slipcase and a DVD version of the film. The DVD is presented in Widescreen 1:78:1 and Dolby Digital 5.1, English, Spanish and French Dolby Surround.JUDGMENT CALL:When "Avatar" was released in theaters, I admit that I took a caustic approach to the film.It's not that dislike James Cameron films because I have enjoyed many of his films but it deals with my feelings of technology and films infused by CG that the more I see a sci-fi film utilizing it to the nth degree, I look at these films as becoming kitsch. Granted, I'm not expecting the return of thousands of talents and epic filmmaking along the reigns of D.W. Griffith's "Intolerance" but when I saw the trailer for "Avatar", I was sensing CG eye candy ala "Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen".With so many films being released on 3-D (which I have been told that "Avatar" must be seen in 3-D), in some ways, I just want to watch my movies straight. It's not the 3-D that makes me excited, it's the good ol' fashioned form of cinema. But with today's technology, for a sci-fi film, I'm expecting a beautiful scenery in this new world, unique characters, good acting, well-paced and a well-written storyline and most of all, because it's James Cameron who has raised the bar with "Titanic", I expect the best and not sci-fi kitsch.Of course, "Avatar" has gone on to breaking records and fan anticipation of the Blu-ray and DVD release are high (despite the first release being barebones) and upon receiving my review copy, I admit that I was curious about the film. What will James Cameron bring to the big screen in terms of character development, storyline and what message does he have for the viewer. Without it becoming an all eye candy film.Well, let's just say that after I watched "Avatar", I was blown away. Yes, "Avatar" is eye candy but it's pleasing eye candy that has a strong storyline behind it. Films such as the "Star Wars" or "Lord of the Rings" films have been able to take the viewer and let them believe they are away from reality and you know these worlds. That is why so many decades later, people still know the settings, the surroundings of these films and the same can be said about "Avatar".Like those films that will forever be etched in the minds of movie fans, "Avatar" will do the same as people will remember the lush world of Pandora, it's creatures but most of all the Na'vi. Technology is to the point where creatures or other life forms do not need to don a rubber suit or wear excessive make-up to make one think that being is from another planet. Somehow the wizards were able to take the likeness if Sam Worthington, Sigourney Weaver, Zoey Saldana and make the characters of Jake Sully and his avatar, Neytiri and Dr. Grace Augustine come alive.The detail of this film is amazing. On Blu-ray, it's fantastic! The detail and vibrant colors come alive in full effect. The characters on both the human and Na'vi side are believable and the acting is not forced. I admit that very early on the film, I thought about the character of Jake Sully (and no offense to Sam Worthington) but we were going to get something similar to Channing Tatum's Duke ("G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra") and deal with a character that was concerned about his own virility and place as a soldier on Pandora but that is not the case. Worthington's Sully is a man is a disabled man who has found new life using his Avatar, the ability to take part in lifestyle of the Omaticaya, embrace it and find love with Neytiri, the planet and its inhabitants.The chemistry between the characters of Jake Sully and Neytiri is natural but works extremely well. And for fans of James Cameron films, to see Sigourney Weaver in "Avatar" is a nostalgic blessing. She may not be as forceful as her character of Ripley in the "Alien" films but her role as Dr. Grace Augustine was well-done.In fact, I felt the movie and it's pacing for a longer film was well-done, the viewer is immersed in the world but also gets to see political corruption and greed come to play and how Cameron is able to work this film and make it exciting and believable underneath all the CG is quite amazing. What the "Star Wars" films were to me back in the late '70s and early '80s, "Avatar" was a film that captivated my attention throughout its 162 minutes and made me appreciate what sci-fi films today can accomplish (granted, not many films will ever get the budget that Cameron was able to achieve with this film).But as this film has received mostly positive reviews, I was surprised to read "Salon" critic Stephanie Zacharek's opening paragraph of her review. Zacherek writes, "The problem with taking 15 years to bring audiences the future of filmmaking is that someone else is bound to get to the future before you do. And while there are certain technical effects in James Cameron's "Avatar" that aren't quite like anything we've ever seen before, the movie is hardly a historical event, or even a grand achievement. It is a very expensive-looking, very flashy entertainment, albeit one that groans under the weight of clumsy storytelling in the second half and features some of the most godawful dialogue this side of `Attack of the Clones'."I disagree with Zacharek's comment of the movie is a grand achievement. The film has broken box office records worldwide and now has its place in the record books as the #1 earning film in the world. Granted, for critics...many probably didn't think early on that James Cameron could repeat his box office success that he did with "Titanic", let alone beat that record with a sci-fi film. But he did and if that is not an grand achievement, I don't know what Zacharek was expecting. Even if you remove yourself from the earnings, the CG work is amazing. The cinematography is amazing and just the amount of detail on the characters at this time is phenomenal. And when you think about its competition during the Oscar year, "Avatar" was deserving in winning "Best Achievement in Art Direction", "Best Achievement in Cinematography" and "Best Achievement in Visual Effects".She goes on to say that the film was under the weight of clumsy storytelling in the second half and like many sci-fi films, there must be action. You know early on that there is a war coming between the humans and the Na'vi. It's expected, it's going to happen and yes, you are going to lose some of that emotional connect through those sequences. And the "godawful dialogue", I did mention this earlier on in my review that I felt that the character of Jake Skully was getting near Channing Tatum's Duke but for "Avatar", it works. Skully is introduced in the beginning as someone completely opposite of his intellectual brother and it shows.But similar to Zacharek, I was surprised that "Village Voice" critic J. Hoberman would feel the same about the second half as well. Hoberman writes, "For the first 45 minutes, I'm thinking: Metropolis!--and wondering how to amend ballots already cast in polls of the year's best movies. Then the 3-D wears off, and the long second act kicks in."I found the comment to be quite interesting and for the most part, I can see where Hoberman is coming from in comparisons of both films. Where the Fritz Lang epic featured a man from the upper-level associating with and underground woman in which the underground has been subjective to corporate corruption to its highest level, I see the connection but at the same time, comparing "Metropolis" and "Avatar" is comparing apples to oranges. Where both films feature a revolt, "Metropolis" denizens have lived their monotonous life the same every day and are not warriors. In "Avatar", the Na'vi are losing their homeland, their planet is being destroyed and they have either the choice to give up and move to another area or fight. And what kind of film would "Avatar" be if we watched these warriors being displaced?The second half needed that battle and like "Metropolis", where Freder joins Maria in the grand fight, Sully joining the Na'vi was just right! That battle needed to be epic and for an audience who have sat that long at the theater for something grand to happen, this was their pay off. Yes, the film is pragmatic but for a sci-fi film, it works and definitely not kitsch.So, I came away enjoying "Avatar" much more than I expected. The Blu-ray delivered in picture and audio quality. Special features are none but similar to "Sin City" which came out with a near barebones DVD release was then given a magnificent Blu-ray release much later and it's expected the same will happen to "Avatar". I am sure like the video releases of "Titanic" and "Terminator 2', Cameron has a lot of planned for the upcoming ultimate or special edition of "Avatar". This release was just to satisfy the masses who have enjoyed the film and definitely looks and sounds incredible in HD.I know many people may hold off until the better version of "Avatar" is released on Blu-ray but for now, if you want to enjoy "Avatar" now, you can. James Cameron's "Avatar" is the best looking film on Blu-ray since the release films on Blu-ray disc. Although, this is not the ultimate release of "Avatar" and does not include any special features, in terms of picture and audio quality alone, "Avatar" has not only broken box office records, it has raised the bar on what perfection looks and sounds like on Blu-ray.Highly recommended!


Question: Why is the cast phenomenal?

The cast was outstanding and included the Indian star from Slumdog Millionaire.  He is an excellent actor.  The movie was a real treat for me as I'm going back to India this year, and I am about the age of most of the main characters.

Answer: The cast was outstanding and included the Indian star from Slumdog Millionaire

<hl> The cast was outstanding and included the Indian star from Slumdog Millionaire . <hl> He is an excellent actor. The movie was a real treat for me as I'm going back to India this year, and I am about the age of most of the main characters.

<hl> The cast was outstanding and included the Indian star from Slumdog Millionaire <hl>. He is an excellent actor. The movie was a real treat for me as I'm going back to India this year, and I am about the age of most of the main characters.

<hl> The cast was outstanding and included the Indian star from Slumdog Millionaire <hl> .


Question: What do you think about character?

I love Veronica Mars! Watched the whole series on Netflix then wanted to own it. The writing is sharp and the characters are well-developed. The first season is the best.

Answer: the characters are well-developed

I love Veronica Mars! Watched the whole series on Netflix then wanted to own it. <hl> The writing is sharp and the characters are well-developed . <hl> The first season is the best.

I love Veronica Mars! Watched the whole series on Netflix then wanted to own it. The writing is sharp and <hl> the characters are well-developed <hl>. The first season is the best.

The writing is sharp and <hl> the characters are well-developed <hl> .


Question: Why is this movie not scary?

I consider this to be one of the best horror movies that I own. The film is about three film makers going to film a documentary about the legend of the Blair Witch. When hiking in the woods they get lost and then thats when the movie picks up pace. The ending of the film is really sudden and creepy. The reason I loved this film is becuase it was really scary, but they never really show anything. So it lets your imagination scare you, and it leaves you with an impression that you can not shake for a good while. This is really a unique movie expierience.The DVD Picture and Audio are really good considering what was used to film it. The film was never in a Widescreen format, so it is presented on the disc the was it was shown theatrically at a 4:3 aspect ratio. The disc does not have a Dolby Digital 5.1 Soundtrack but a Dolby Surround 2.0 Soundtrack which still is terrific to hear. The sound really has effect on you in Chapter 17 where they are running through the house trying to find Josh.The supplements are very nice on the DVD. First there are the regular Cast and Crew Bios and a couple of Trailers (teaser and theatrical). There is also "The Legend Of the Blair Witch", where it is basically the timeline of when the events related to the Blair Witch occured. The best bonus is the special "Curse of the Blair Witch", a documentary that takes place as if the events of the Blair Witch happened in real life. It basically explains all the events that occured regarding the witch that were mentioned in the movie with more detail and explanation. Watching this special really added effect to what had occured in the movie.A few DVD-ROM features are added to, but nothing really special: just some excerpts from the comic book, the Dossier and a copy of the Map from the movie.I based my 5 star review on the film, sound, video, and supplement quality of this DVD.

Answer: one of the best horror movies

<hl> I consider this to be one of the best horror movies that I own. <hl> The film is about three film makers going to film a documentary about the legend of the Blair Witch. When hiking in the woods they get lost and then thats when the movie picks up pace. The ending of the film is really sudden and creepy. The reason I loved this film is becuase it was really scary, but they never really show anything. So it lets your imagination scare you, and it leaves you with an impression that you can not shake for a good while. This is really a unique movie expierience. The DVD Picture and Audio are really good considering what was used to film it. The film was never in a Widescreen format, so it is presented on the disc the was it was shown theatrically at a 4:3 aspect ratio. The disc does not have a Dolby Digital 5.1 Soundtrack but a Dolby Surround 2.0 Soundtrack which still is terrific to hear. The sound really has effect on you in Chapter 17 where they are running through the house trying to find Josh. The supplements are very nice on the DVD. First there are the regular Cast and Crew Bios and a couple of Trailers (teaser and theatrical). There is also "The Legend Of the Blair Witch", where it is basically the timeline of when the events related to the Blair Witch occured. The best bonus is the special "Curse of the Blair Witch", a documentary that takes place as if the events of the Blair Witch happened in real life. It basically explains all the events that occured regarding the witch that were mentioned in the movie with more detail and explanation. Watching this special really added effect to what had occured in the movie. A few DVD-ROM features are added to, but nothing really special: just some excerpts from the comic book, the Dossier and a copy of the Map from the movie. I based my 5 star review on the film, sound, video, and supplement quality of this DVD.

I consider this to be <hl> one of the best horror movies <hl> that I own. The film is about three film makers going to film a documentary about the legend of the Blair Witch. When hiking in the woods they get lost and then thats when the movie picks up pace. The ending of the film is really sudden and creepy. The reason I loved this film is becuase it was really scary, but they never really show anything. So it lets your imagination scare you, and it leaves you with an impression that you can not shake for a good while. This is really a unique movie expierience.The DVD Picture and Audio are really good considering what was used to film it. The film was never in a Widescreen format, so it is presented on the disc the was it was shown theatrically at a 4:3 aspect ratio. The disc does not have a Dolby Digital 5.1 Soundtrack but a Dolby Surround 2.0 Soundtrack which still is terrific to hear. The sound really has effect on you in Chapter 17 where they are running through the house trying to find Josh.The supplements are very nice on the DVD. First there are the regular Cast and Crew Bios and a couple of Trailers (teaser and theatrical). There is also "The Legend Of the Blair Witch", where it is basically the timeline of when the events related to the Blair Witch occured. The best bonus is the special "Curse of the Blair Witch", a documentary that takes place as if the events of the Blair Witch happened in real life. It basically explains all the events that occured regarding the witch that were mentioned in the movie with more detail and explanation. Watching this special really added effect to what had occured in the movie.A few DVD-ROM features are added to, but nothing really special: just some excerpts from the comic book, the Dossier and a copy of the Map from the movie.I based my 5 star review on the film, sound, video, and supplement quality of this DVD.


Question: What's your terror movie favorite?

An outstanding animated romantic comedy, Shrek, brings to the screen the love story between, an ogre (Shrek), and a beautiful princess (Fiona), with all the ups and downs that that entails!  In addition, the couple finds itself in the company of adorable characters from classic fairy tales, with the cherry on the cake being the hilarious talking donkey.It is a film about human relations, hope and second chances, but most importantly about trust, love, and inner strength.Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and the rest of the cast, have truly outdone themselves with their performances, which are exceptional to say the least!  All the actors, without exceptions, give it their 100% and it really shows (the animation does come ALIVE)! Very well written and very well presented, the movie is without a doubt guaranteed to provide more than just a few laughs.  The film is simple enough, but does a great job of describing people's every day lives and the problems they face.  It just goes to show that simplicity is often far better than complexity, when trying to present issues of a human nature.The setting, the plot, the dialogues, the HUMOR (!!!) and the music are all wonderful!In short, Shrek is a movie definitely worth watching and one to seriously consider adding to your movie collection!  Strongly recommended along with Shrek 2.

Answer: Shrek 2

An outstanding animated romantic comedy, Shrek, brings to the screen the love story between, an ogre (Shrek), and a beautiful princess (Fiona), with all the ups and downs that that entails! In addition, the couple finds itself in the company of adorable characters from classic fairy tales, with the cherry on the cake being the hilarious talking donkey. It is a film about human relations, hope and second chances, but most importantly about trust, love, and inner strength. Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and the rest of the cast, have truly outdone themselves with their performances, which are exceptional to say the least! All the actors, without exceptions, give it their 100% and it really shows (the animation does come ALIVE)! Very well written and very well presented, the movie is without a doubt guaranteed to provide more than just a few laughs. The film is simple enough, but does a great job of describing people's every day lives and the problems they face. It just goes to show that simplicity is often far better than complexity, when trying to present issues of a human nature. The setting, the plot, the dialogues, the HUMOR (!!!) and the music are all wonderful!In short, Shrek is a movie definitely worth watching and one to seriously consider adding to your movie collection! <hl> Strongly recommended along with Shrek 2 . <hl>

An outstanding animated romantic comedy, Shrek, brings to the screen the love story between, an ogre (Shrek), and a beautiful princess (Fiona), with all the ups and downs that that entails! In addition, the couple finds itself in the company of adorable characters from classic fairy tales, with the cherry on the cake being the hilarious talking donkey.It is a film about human relations, hope and second chances, but most importantly about trust, love, and inner strength.Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and the rest of the cast, have truly outdone themselves with their performances, which are exceptional to say the least! All the actors, without exceptions, give it their 100% and it really shows (the animation does come ALIVE)! Very well written and very well presented, the movie is without a doubt guaranteed to provide more than just a few laughs. The film is simple enough, but does a great job of describing people's every day lives and the problems they face. It just goes to show that simplicity is often far better than complexity, when trying to present issues of a human nature.The setting, the plot, the dialogues, the HUMOR (!!!) and the music are all wonderful!In short, Shrek is a movie definitely worth watching and one to seriously consider adding to your movie collection! Strongly recommended along with <hl> Shrek 2 <hl>.

Strongly recommended along with <hl> Shrek 2 <hl> .


Question: How is this story?

I try to avoid sad movies but had no idea this one fit in that category.  However, the story and acting were both superb.

Answer: the story and acting were both superb

I try to avoid sad movies but had no idea this one fit in that category. <hl> However, the story and acting were both superb . <hl>

I try to avoid sad movies but had no idea this one fit in that category. However, <hl> the story and acting were both superb <hl>.

However, <hl> the story and acting were both superb <hl> .


Question: What story do I tell you?

Wow! How do you spell `Wow" backwards? Sorry, that is an inside joke, a reference to my review of Christopher Nolan's "Memento", but an equally fitting reference to my feelings about Christopher Nolan's re-imagining of "Batman Begins".Ducard (Liam Neeson) waits for Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) in a jail cell, somewhere in Asia. He tells Wayne about a mysterious group of men he works with, who train to rid the world of evil. Arranging for his release, Ducard tells him how to find their camp. There, Wayne meets Ra's Al Ghul (Ken Watanabe, "The Last Emperor"), the leader of the League of Shadows, a group of highly trained men determined to make the world a safe place. Upon completion of his training, Wayne travels back to Gotham and finds the city in a state of decay. His former girlfriend, Rachel Dawes (Katie Holmes) is a District Attorney working to clean up the increasingly corrupt political system. She realizes that a psychiatrist, Dr. Jonathan Crane (Cillian Murphy, "28 Days Later"), is transferring all of a local crime lord's (Tom Wilkinson) henchmen into his custody at Arkum Asylum. Alfred (Michael Caine) welcomes Wayne back to his ancestral home, Wayne Manor. As Bruce announces his plans, Alfred becomes a confidant and assistant. Meeting Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman), an inventor employed by Wayne Industries, Wayne begins to assemble the arsenal necessary for his transformation to Batman. As he begins to fight the evil in Gotham, he meets Sergeant Gordon (Gary Oldman), perhaps the last honest cop in Gotham.I am a big fan of the Tim Burton "Batman" films, especially the first one. But Christopher Nolan ("Memento", "Insomnia") has created a whole new vision of the character. I never really read a lot of superhero comic books as a kid. To me, the whole fun of watching the film versions is to witness the mythology of these characters. Some of the characters, like Batman, Superman and Spider Man, have been in our culture for so long they have reached the level of myth. Who doesn't know at least a little of the story of Superman's creation? Or Batman's? In "Batman Begins", Nolan creates a detailed, interesting, exciting film about the origins of Bruce Wayne and his superhero alter ego.Fitting a lot of information into the film, Nolan moves things along at a breakneck pace. A lot is going on, but it is easy to follow as well because the director uses words, actions, visual references and more to inform us. Isn't this what all directors should do? But how many are successful? This is a tribute solely to the writer and director. As we watch Wayne go through his training, Nolan inserts flashbacks to Wayne's childhood, giving us a glimpse of the fears that have so far shaped his life. The training includes a terrific sequence in which Wayne has to find a particular man, standing amongst identically dressed warriors, as the men move in unison, before fighting him. Upon his return to Wayne Manor, the other characters enter the picture and we learn about them. This is one of the best things about the film; there is so much going on. Just because the film is about a comic book superhero, Nolan didn't feel it necessary to dumb down the plot or the characters or make it simplistic. This is a film for young (well, not too young) and old alike.There is also a significant amount of humor peppered throughout the film. Wayne's relationships with Alfred (Caine) and Lucius (Freeman) create a lot of the humor, and warmth for that matter, in his life. In one scene, Alfred explains that Wayne needs to keep up appearances as a billionaire playboy, if he wants to divert attention from his alter ego. Therefore, he arrives at a party, in a flashy car, with two models sitting in the passenger seat. Alfred becomes less a butler and more a confidant to Wayne, more so than in any other incarnation of the story. And this works brilliantly, providing him with a sense of history, reason and grounding.The look of the film is also fantastic. Using real sets, for the most part, the action has a sense of urgency and place. Thankfully, they didn't use CGI to recreate everything, as they did in "Star Wars Episode III". It is my understanding that Chicago provided the backdrop for Gotham, with embellishments created by CGI. When you see it, you will understand why this is so important. Obviously, there is a significant amount of CGI work involved, but using a real backdrop gives the setting a quality that has been lacking in other films lately. All of this work helps to create the world these characters live in, making everything more believable. Because we believe Gotham really exists, the action, the danger and the story all are more believable.Christian Bale is a really good actor. One thing that can be said of all of his performances is that they are interesting. You might not like the character, or the film, but at least they were interesting. As Bruce Wayne, Bale brings a solemn air, an intensity that works. Wayne has some dark moments in his past and his upbringing and Bale is the right choice for this part. He is also able to inject humor and a lighthearted quality, at times, making the character three dimensional and interesting. When we experience a flashback of a traumatic event in his childhood, it is a very moving moment, because it brings us closer to Bale's portrayal of Wayne.Let's face it, the supporting cast is fantastic. Any movie that has Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Tom Wilkinson, Gary Oldman, Ken Watanabe, Rutger Hauer and Liam Neeson isn't going to be bad. And "Begins" is great, in large part due to the superb work of these actors, Cillian Murphy and even the future Mrs. Tom Cruise. The key to the success of all is that they are all playing the roles seriously. Yes, some of them have slightly humorous moments, but overall, they believe in these characters, their world, their actions. I know I sound like a broken record, but because they believe, we believe.Michael Caine, in particular, stands out. This, for me, was the most exciting casting choice in the film. The moment I learned that he had been cast to play Alfred, I was very excited. It is such perfect casting. In the role, Caine brings a layer of depth and conviction to the character we haven't seen before. Alfred has invested so much of his life in this family that he deeply cares about their legacy. This is a nice touch to the character and adds a certain amount of gravitas to the role.Cillian Murphy is also great as Dr. Jonathan Crane. Completely believable, he brings a real sense of menace, creating a memorable villain whose plan is very diabolical and multifaceted. Again, Nolan keeps what could be a complicated idea understandable, by revealing various aspects throughout the story. Murphy is also completely convincing as an American psychiatrist, even though he is Irish. There is no trace of his accent. Murphy has created a small handful of very good performances and appears to be poised to continue this streak.The story, as mentioned before, is very detailed. Towards the end, there are a few plot twists which surprised me. And I am almost never surprised by plot twists. They are developed well throughout and add a nice layer, creating additional suspense and intrigue.Nolan also manages to keep the film dark, much like Film Noir, without going too far over the edge. Gotham is drenched in shadow, the streets riddled with crime. The hero and the tone throughout are dark, but broken up by some great action scenes and light hearted humor. As the villain's plan begins to unfold, the story becomes darker and may be too intense for little children. For kids over a certain age, and adults, this just helps the film become that much more... you, know, believable.There are some terrific action sequences throughout the film. In a couple, as Batman fights the bad guys, the scenes are presented in a unique, almost impressionistic fashion. A glimpse of Batman rappelling down, a shot of thugs getting their heads knocked together, a brief look at another crook flying into the air with Batman. This is a unique idea. Generally, we see every fist hitting flesh, every cut, every ounce of blood spilling. In "Begins", a lot of the action is suggested to us, leaving our minds to sort out the actual details. This idea works really well.The film also has one of the coolest beginnings I have seen in a long time. Again, rather impressionistic, the opening credits suggest rather than inform.Generally, I can't stand the thought of a sequel. Can't anyone do anything original in Hollywood? They always have to rely on a sequel? "Batman Begins" was made because Warner Bros. wanted to reenergize the franchise. And Nolan has done that. At the end of the film, there is a brief coda setting up the inevitable sequel. In this case, Nolan suggests that there is so much more to be done with the story, the characters, the villains, that I welcome a sequel.Bring on the sequels, Mr. Nolan.

Answer: my review of Christopher Nolan's "Memento"

Wow! How do you spell `Wow" backwards? <hl> Sorry, that is an inside joke, a reference to my review of Christopher Nolan's "Memento" , but an equally fitting reference to my feelings about Christopher Nolan's re-imagining of "Batman Begins". <hl> Ducard (Liam Neeson) waits for Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) in a jail cell, somewhere in Asia. He tells Wayne about a mysterious group of men he works with, who train to rid the world of evil. Arranging for his release, Ducard tells him how to find their camp. There, Wayne meets Ra's Al Ghul (Ken Watanabe, "The Last Emperor"), the leader of the League of Shadows, a group of highly trained men determined to make the world a safe place. Upon completion of his training, Wayne travels back to Gotham and finds the city in a state of decay. His former girlfriend, Rachel Dawes (Katie Holmes) is a District Attorney working to clean up the increasingly corrupt political system. She realizes that a psychiatrist, Dr. Jonathan Crane (Cillian Murphy, "28 Days Later"), is transferring all of a local crime lord's (Tom Wilkinson) henchmen into his custody at Arkum Asylum. Alfred (Michael Caine) welcomes Wayne back to his ancestral home, Wayne Manor. As Bruce announces his plans, Alfred becomes a confidant and assistant. Meeting Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman), an inventor employed by Wayne Industries, Wayne begins to assemble the arsenal necessary for his transformation to Batman. As he begins to fight the evil in Gotham, he meets Sergeant Gordon (Gary Oldman), perhaps the last honest cop in Gotham. I am a big fan of the Tim Burton "Batman" films, especially the first one. But Christopher Nolan ("Memento", "Insomnia") has created a whole new vision of the character. I never really read a lot of superhero comic books as a kid. To me, the whole fun of watching the film versions is to witness the mythology of these characters. Some of the characters, like Batman, Superman and Spider Man, have been in our culture for so long they have reached the level of myth. Who doesn't know at least a little of the story of Superman's creation? Or Batman's? In "Batman Begins", Nolan creates a detailed, interesting, exciting film about the origins of Bruce Wayne and his superhero alter ego. Fitting a lot of information into the film, Nolan moves things along at a breakneck pace. A lot is going on, but it is easy to follow as well because the director uses words, actions, visual references and more to inform us. Isn't this what all directors should do? But how many are successful? This is a tribute solely to the writer and director. As we watch Wayne go through his training, Nolan inserts flashbacks to Wayne's childhood, giving us a glimpse of the fears that have so far shaped his life. The training includes a terrific sequence in which Wayne has to find a particular man, standing amongst identically dressed warriors, as the men move in unison, before fighting him. Upon his return to Wayne Manor, the other characters enter the picture and we learn about them. This is one of the best things about the film; there is so much going on. Just because the film is about a comic book superhero, Nolan didn't feel it necessary to dumb down the plot or the characters or make it simplistic. This is a film for young (well, not too young) and old alike. There is also a significant amount of humor peppered throughout the film. Wayne's relationships with Alfred (Caine) and Lucius (Freeman) create a lot of the humor, and warmth for that matter, in his life. In one scene, Alfred explains that Wayne needs to keep up appearances as a billionaire playboy, if he wants to divert attention from his alter ego. Therefore, he arrives at a party, in a flashy car, with two models sitting in the passenger seat. Alfred becomes less a butler and more a confidant to Wayne, more so than in any other incarnation of the story. And this works brilliantly, providing him with a sense of history, reason and grounding. The look of the film is also fantastic. Using real sets, for the most part, the action has a sense of urgency and place. Thankfully, they didn't use CGI to recreate everything, as they did in "Star Wars Episode III". It is my understanding that Chicago provided the backdrop for Gotham, with embellishments created by CGI. When you see it, you will understand why this is so important. Obviously, there is a significant amount of CGI work involved, but using a real backdrop gives the setting a quality that has been lacking in other films lately. All of this work helps to create the world these characters live in, making everything more believable. Because we believe Gotham really exists, the action, the danger and the story all are more believable. Christian Bale is a really good actor. One thing that can be said of all of his performances is that they are interesting. You might not like the character, or the film, but at least they were interesting. As Bruce Wayne, Bale brings a solemn air, an intensity that works. Wayne has some dark moments in his past and his upbringing and Bale is the right choice for this part. He is also able to inject humor and a lighthearted quality, at times, making the character three dimensional and interesting. When we experience a flashback of a traumatic event in his childhood, it is a very moving moment, because it brings us closer to Bale's portrayal of Wayne. Let's face it, the supporting cast is fantastic. Any movie that has Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Tom Wilkinson, Gary Oldman, Ken Watanabe, Rutger Hauer and Liam Neeson isn't going to be bad. And "Begins" is great, in large part due to the superb work of these actors, Cillian Murphy and even the future Mrs. Tom Cruise. The key to the success of all is that they are all playing the roles seriously. Yes, some of them have slightly humorous moments, but overall, they believe in these characters, their world, their actions. I know I sound like a broken record, but because they believe, we believe. Michael Caine, in particular, stands out. This, for me, was the most exciting casting choice in the film. The moment I learned that he had been cast to play Alfred, I was very excited. It is such perfect casting. In the role, Caine brings a layer of depth and conviction to the character we haven't seen before. Alfred has invested so much of his life in this family that he deeply cares about their legacy. This is a nice touch to the character and adds a certain amount of gravitas to the role. Cillian Murphy is also great as Dr. Jonathan Crane. Completely believable, he brings a real sense of menace, creating a memorable villain whose plan is very diabolical and multifaceted. Again, Nolan keeps what could be a complicated idea understandable, by revealing various aspects throughout the story. Murphy is also completely convincing as an American psychiatrist, even though he is Irish. There is no trace of his accent. Murphy has created a small handful of very good performances and appears to be poised to continue this streak. The story, as mentioned before, is very detailed. Towards the end, there are a few plot twists which surprised me. And I am almost never surprised by plot twists. They are developed well throughout and add a nice layer, creating additional suspense and intrigue. Nolan also manages to keep the film dark, much like Film Noir, without going too far over the edge. Gotham is drenched in shadow, the streets riddled with crime. The hero and the tone throughout are dark, but broken up by some great action scenes and light hearted humor. As the villain's plan begins to unfold, the story becomes darker and may be too intense for little children. For kids over a certain age, and adults, this just helps the film become that much more... you, know, believable. There are some terrific action sequences throughout the film. In a couple, as Batman fights the bad guys, the scenes are presented in a unique, almost impressionistic fashion. A glimpse of Batman rappelling down, a shot of thugs getting their heads knocked together, a brief look at another crook flying into the air with Batman. This is a unique idea. Generally, we see every fist hitting flesh, every cut, every ounce of blood spilling. In "Begins", a lot of the action is suggested to us, leaving our minds to sort out the actual details. This idea works really well. The film also has one of the coolest beginnings I have seen in a long time. Again, rather impressionistic, the opening credits suggest rather than inform. Generally, I can't stand the thought of a sequel. Can't anyone do anything original in Hollywood? They always have to rely on a sequel? "Batman Begins" was made because Warner Bros. wanted to reenergize the franchise. And Nolan has done that. At the end of the film, there is a brief coda setting up the inevitable sequel. In this case, Nolan suggests that there is so much more to be done with the story, the characters, the villains, that I welcome a sequel. Bring on the sequels, Mr. Nolan.

Wow! How do you spell `Wow" backwards? Sorry, that is an inside joke, a reference to <hl> my review of Christopher Nolan's "Memento" <hl>, but an equally fitting reference to my feelings about Christopher Nolan's re-imagining of "Batman Begins".Ducard (Liam Neeson) waits for Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) in a jail cell, somewhere in Asia. He tells Wayne about a mysterious group of men he works with, who train to rid the world of evil. Arranging for his release, Ducard tells him how to find their camp. There, Wayne meets Ra's Al Ghul (Ken Watanabe, "The Last Emperor"), the leader of the League of Shadows, a group of highly trained men determined to make the world a safe place. Upon completion of his training, Wayne travels back to Gotham and finds the city in a state of decay. His former girlfriend, Rachel Dawes (Katie Holmes) is a District Attorney working to clean up the increasingly corrupt political system. She realizes that a psychiatrist, Dr. Jonathan Crane (Cillian Murphy, "28 Days Later"), is transferring all of a local crime lord's (Tom Wilkinson) henchmen into his custody at Arkum Asylum. Alfred (Michael Caine) welcomes Wayne back to his ancestral home, Wayne Manor. As Bruce announces his plans, Alfred becomes a confidant and assistant. Meeting Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman), an inventor employed by Wayne Industries, Wayne begins to assemble the arsenal necessary for his transformation to Batman. As he begins to fight the evil in Gotham, he meets Sergeant Gordon (Gary Oldman), perhaps the last honest cop in Gotham.I am a big fan of the Tim Burton "Batman" films, especially the first one. But Christopher Nolan ("Memento", "Insomnia") has created a whole new vision of the character. I never really read a lot of superhero comic books as a kid. To me, the whole fun of watching the film versions is to witness the mythology of these characters. Some of the characters, like Batman, Superman and Spider Man, have been in our culture for so long they have reached the level of myth. Who doesn't know at least a little of the story of Superman's creation? Or Batman's? In "Batman Begins", Nolan creates a detailed, interesting, exciting film about the origins of Bruce Wayne and his superhero alter ego.Fitting a lot of information into the film, Nolan moves things along at a breakneck pace. A lot is going on, but it is easy to follow as well because the director uses words, actions, visual references and more to inform us. Isn't this what all directors should do? But how many are successful? This is a tribute solely to the writer and director. As we watch Wayne go through his training, Nolan inserts flashbacks to Wayne's childhood, giving us a glimpse of the fears that have so far shaped his life. The training includes a terrific sequence in which Wayne has to find a particular man, standing amongst identically dressed warriors, as the men move in unison, before fighting him. Upon his return to Wayne Manor, the other characters enter the picture and we learn about them. This is one of the best things about the film; there is so much going on. Just because the film is about a comic book superhero, Nolan didn't feel it necessary to dumb down the plot or the characters or make it simplistic. This is a film for young (well, not too young) and old alike.There is also a significant amount of humor peppered throughout the film. Wayne's relationships with Alfred (Caine) and Lucius (Freeman) create a lot of the humor, and warmth for that matter, in his life. In one scene, Alfred explains that Wayne needs to keep up appearances as a billionaire playboy, if he wants to divert attention from his alter ego. Therefore, he arrives at a party, in a flashy car, with two models sitting in the passenger seat. Alfred becomes less a butler and more a confidant to Wayne, more so than in any other incarnation of the story. And this works brilliantly, providing him with a sense of history, reason and grounding.The look of the film is also fantastic. Using real sets, for the most part, the action has a sense of urgency and place. Thankfully, they didn't use CGI to recreate everything, as they did in "Star Wars Episode III". It is my understanding that Chicago provided the backdrop for Gotham, with embellishments created by CGI. When you see it, you will understand why this is so important. Obviously, there is a significant amount of CGI work involved, but using a real backdrop gives the setting a quality that has been lacking in other films lately. All of this work helps to create the world these characters live in, making everything more believable. Because we believe Gotham really exists, the action, the danger and the story all are more believable.Christian Bale is a really good actor. One thing that can be said of all of his performances is that they are interesting. You might not like the character, or the film, but at least they were interesting. As Bruce Wayne, Bale brings a solemn air, an intensity that works. Wayne has some dark moments in his past and his upbringing and Bale is the right choice for this part. He is also able to inject humor and a lighthearted quality, at times, making the character three dimensional and interesting. When we experience a flashback of a traumatic event in his childhood, it is a very moving moment, because it brings us closer to Bale's portrayal of Wayne.Let's face it, the supporting cast is fantastic. Any movie that has Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Tom Wilkinson, Gary Oldman, Ken Watanabe, Rutger Hauer and Liam Neeson isn't going to be bad. And "Begins" is great, in large part due to the superb work of these actors, Cillian Murphy and even the future Mrs. Tom Cruise. The key to the success of all is that they are all playing the roles seriously. Yes, some of them have slightly humorous moments, but overall, they believe in these characters, their world, their actions. I know I sound like a broken record, but because they believe, we believe.Michael Caine, in particular, stands out. This, for me, was the most exciting casting choice in the film. The moment I learned that he had been cast to play Alfred, I was very excited. It is such perfect casting. In the role, Caine brings a layer of depth and conviction to the character we haven't seen before. Alfred has invested so much of his life in this family that he deeply cares about their legacy. This is a nice touch to the character and adds a certain amount of gravitas to the role.Cillian Murphy is also great as Dr. Jonathan Crane. Completely believable, he brings a real sense of menace, creating a memorable villain whose plan is very diabolical and multifaceted. Again, Nolan keeps what could be a complicated idea understandable, by revealing various aspects throughout the story. Murphy is also completely convincing as an American psychiatrist, even though he is Irish. There is no trace of his accent. Murphy has created a small handful of very good performances and appears to be poised to continue this streak.The story, as mentioned before, is very detailed. Towards the end, there are a few plot twists which surprised me. And I am almost never surprised by plot twists. They are developed well throughout and add a nice layer, creating additional suspense and intrigue.Nolan also manages to keep the film dark, much like Film Noir, without going too far over the edge. Gotham is drenched in shadow, the streets riddled with crime. The hero and the tone throughout are dark, but broken up by some great action scenes and light hearted humor. As the villain's plan begins to unfold, the story becomes darker and may be too intense for little children. For kids over a certain age, and adults, this just helps the film become that much more... you, know, believable.There are some terrific action sequences throughout the film. In a couple, as Batman fights the bad guys, the scenes are presented in a unique, almost impressionistic fashion. A glimpse of Batman rappelling down, a shot of thugs getting their heads knocked together, a brief look at another crook flying into the air with Batman. This is a unique idea. Generally, we see every fist hitting flesh, every cut, every ounce of blood spilling. In "Begins", a lot of the action is suggested to us, leaving our minds to sort out the actual details. This idea works really well.The film also has one of the coolest beginnings I have seen in a long time. Again, rather impressionistic, the opening credits suggest rather than inform.Generally, I can't stand the thought of a sequel. Can't anyone do anything original in Hollywood? They always have to rely on a sequel? "Batman Begins" was made because Warner Bros. wanted to reenergize the franchise. And Nolan has done that. At the end of the film, there is a brief coda setting up the inevitable sequel. In this case, Nolan suggests that there is so much more to be done with the story, the characters, the villains, that I welcome a sequel.Bring on the sequels, Mr. Nolan.

Sorry, that is an inside joke, a reference to <hl> my review of Christopher Nolan's "Memento" <hl> , but an equally fitting reference to my feelings about Christopher Nolan's re-imagining of "Batman Begins".


Question: How looks this one?

This movie was very disappointing.  Granted, it had plenty of action and I understood the overall plot.  However, it was many times very confusing.  I have seen every Bond movie and sometimes found scenes I did not understand.  However, this one was so full of them that I was left scratching my head so much of the time.  I hate to say I cannot recommend this Bond movie, as I am an ardent Bond fan.

Answer: This movie was very disappointing

This movie was very disappointing .

<hl> This movie was very disappointing . <hl> Granted, it had plenty of action and I understood the overall plot. However, it was many times very confusing. I have seen every Bond movie and sometimes found scenes I did not understand. However, this one was so full of them that I was left scratching my head so much of the time. I hate to say I cannot recommend this Bond movie, as I am an ardent Bond fan.

<hl> This movie was very disappointing <hl>. Granted, it had plenty of action and I understood the overall plot. However, it was many times very confusing. I have seen every Bond movie and sometimes found scenes I did not understand. However, this one was so full of them that I was left scratching my head so much of the time. I hate to say I cannot recommend this Bond movie, as I am an ardent Bond fan.

<hl> This movie was very disappointing <hl> .


Question: Does this suit a lot of different tastes?

Napoleon Dynamite is totally different than any kind of film I have  ever seen before. It truly is a cross between Monty Python and Tommy Boy. Many people hate it when a passion. I can understand that. It's not that kind of humor that many people like. My parents do not get it at all. However, all my friends think it is the one of the best comedies ever made. This is much like Easy Rider. I think it is one of the most pointless movies ever made, but I also did not live through the 60's so the whole point of the movie was lost on me. For those of us who grew up in the 80's/90's, this movie makes more sense. Yes, the humor is VERY dry and it is a slow movie (which I think makes it better). I would say if your over 30, it's very unlikely that you will like ND, but give it a try, you might like it. If you don't like it don't bad mouth it, it just wasn't ment for you.

Answer: It's not that kind of humor that many people like

Napoleon Dynamite is totally different than any kind of film I have ever seen before. It truly is a cross between Monty Python and Tommy Boy. Many people hate it when a passion. I can understand that. <hl> It's not that kind of humor that many people like . <hl> My parents do not get it at all. However, all my friends think it is the one of the best comedies ever made. This is much like Easy Rider. I think it is one of the most pointless movies ever made, but I also did not live through the 60's so the whole point of the movie was lost on me. For those of us who grew up in the 80's/90's, this movie makes more sense. Yes, the humor is VERY dry and it is a slow movie (which I think makes it better). I would say if your over 30, it's very unlikely that you will like ND, but give it a try, you might like it. If you don't like it don't bad mouth it, it just wasn't ment for you.

Napoleon Dynamite is totally different than any kind of film I have ever seen before. It truly is a cross between Monty Python and Tommy Boy. Many people hate it when a passion. I can understand that. <hl> It's not that kind of humor that many people like <hl>. My parents do not get it at all. However, all my friends think it is the one of the best comedies ever made. This is much like Easy Rider. I think it is one of the most pointless movies ever made, but I also did not live through the 60's so the whole point of the movie was lost on me. For those of us who grew up in the 80's/90's, this movie makes more sense. Yes, the humor is VERY dry and it is a slow movie (which I think makes it better). I would say if your over 30, it's very unlikely that you will like ND, but give it a try, you might like it. If you don't like it don't bad mouth it, it just wasn't ment for you.

<hl> It's not that kind of humor that many people like <hl> .


Question: Does this is film is good?

The Incredibles is bursting at the seems with personality and the emotion of the creators. If only a small percentage of the movies with real people seemed to have this much care put into them, we'd be seeing a lot better stuff. I still think of the scene where Dash starts running from Syndrome's henchmen and get a huge smile on my face. I think the movie is going to break apart into a million pieces from its own contageous joy and energy. This movie really is incredible!

Answer: This movie really is incredible

This movie really is incredible !

The Incredibles is bursting at the seems with personality and the emotion of the creators. If only a small percentage of the movies with real people seemed to have this much care put into them, we'd be seeing a lot better stuff. I still think of the scene where Dash starts running from Syndrome's henchmen and get a huge smile on my face. I think the movie is going to break apart into a million pieces from its own contageous joy and energy. <hl> This movie really is incredible ! <hl>

The Incredibles is bursting at the seems with personality and the emotion of the creators. If only a small percentage of the movies with real people seemed to have this much care put into them, we'd be seeing a lot better stuff. I still think of the scene where Dash starts running from Syndrome's henchmen and get a huge smile on my face. I think the movie is going to break apart into a million pieces from its own contageous joy and energy. <hl> This movie really is incredible <hl>!

<hl> This movie really is incredible <hl> !


Question: How is the quality of the story?

This is such a complex, multi-faceted movie. It mixes comedy and romance and drama and adds a dash of science fiction. It's a happy/sad movie. The story is totally original, and the screenplay is excellent. The directing is really good, and the special effects aren't too overwhelming. This emotional rollercoaster of a movie leaves you feeling sad, happy, thoughtful, cheerful, all at the same time. All of the acting (Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, etc.) give excellent performances. Jim Carrey does a superb job as a quiet, boring, conventional human named Joel, quite unlike his normal performances. Kate Winslet also gives an enthralling performance as the exciting, spontaneous, wacky Clementine. The other minor characters are a bit underdeveloped, but the movie is quite enjoyable nonetheless. Catch this movie while it's still in theaters, it's not one you can easily forget! ENJOY!!!!!(...)

Answer: comedy and romance

This is such a complex, multi-faceted movie. <hl> It mixes comedy and romance and drama and adds a dash of science fiction. <hl> It's a happy/sad movie. The story is totally original, and the screenplay is excellent. The directing is really good, and the special effects aren't too overwhelming. This emotional rollercoaster of a movie leaves you feeling sad, happy, thoughtful, cheerful, all at the same time. All of the acting (Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, etc.) give excellent performances. Jim Carrey does a superb job as a quiet, boring, conventional human named Joel, quite unlike his normal performances. Kate Winslet also gives an enthralling performance as the exciting, spontaneous, wacky Clementine. The other minor characters are a bit underdeveloped, but the movie is quite enjoyable nonetheless. Catch this movie while it's still in theaters, it's not one you can easily forget! ENJOY!!!!! (...)

This is such a complex, multi-faceted movie. It mixes <hl> comedy and romance <hl> and drama and adds a dash of science fiction. It's a happy/sad movie. The story is totally original, and the screenplay is excellent. The directing is really good, and the special effects aren't too overwhelming. This emotional rollercoaster of a movie leaves you feeling sad, happy, thoughtful, cheerful, all at the same time. All of the acting (Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst, etc.) give excellent performances. Jim Carrey does a superb job as a quiet, boring, conventional human named Joel, quite unlike his normal performances. Kate Winslet also gives an enthralling performance as the exciting, spontaneous, wacky Clementine. The other minor characters are a bit underdeveloped, but the movie is quite enjoyable nonetheless. Catch this movie while it's still in theaters, it's not one you can easily forget! ENJOY!!!!!(...)


Question: How is the animation?

Batman: Under the Red Hood was better than I thought it would be, the animation was good but not great, and the story was very good. I was afraid I had wasted my money on another bad dvd. I was surprised to find that it was really a good story even though the joker was didn't have very many shining moments. The animation was typical for a batman animated film but was not something to get excited about. The thing about this dvd that got me truly interested was the story. the opposing veiws in the philosophy of Batman and Red Hood were what created the conflict in this story. overall it was a really good dvd.

Answer: the animation was good but not great

<hl> Batman: Under the Red Hood was better than I thought it would be, the animation was good but not great , and the story was very good. <hl> I was afraid I had wasted my money on another bad dvd. I was surprised to find that it was really a good story even though the joker was didn't have very many shining moments. The animation was typical for a batman animated film but was not something to get excited about. The thing about this dvd that got me truly interested was the story. the opposing veiws in the philosophy of Batman and Red Hood were what created the conflict in this story. overall it was a really good dvd.

Batman: Under the Red Hood was better than I thought it would be, <hl> the animation was good but not great <hl>, and the story was very good. I was afraid I had wasted my money on another bad dvd. I was surprised to find that it was really a good story even though the joker was didn't have very many shining moments. The animation was typical for a batman animated film but was not something to get excited about. The thing about this dvd that got me truly interested was the story. the opposing veiws in the philosophy of Batman and Red Hood were what created the conflict in this story. overall it was a really good dvd.

Batman: Under the Red Hood was better than I thought it would be, <hl> the animation was good but not great <hl> , and the story was very good.


Question: How is the write?

I love this show!  The writing is smart, fast paced, and textured.  Veronica is a modern day Nancy Drew, mystery solver extraordinaire.  When she decides to solve a crime, mayhem and and excitement always follows.  One of the things I love about the show is that while it is outrageous, it touches on real live issues that we all have to face at some point directly or indirectly and it does it with humor and a great dramatic timing!

Answer: The writing is smart

I love this show! <hl> The writing is smart , fast paced, and textured. <hl> Veronica is a modern day Nancy Drew, mystery solver extraordinaire. When she decides to solve a crime, mayhem and and excitement always follows. One of the things I love about the show is that while it is outrageous, it touches on real live issues that we all have to face at some point directly or indirectly and it does it with humor and a great dramatic timing!

I love this show! <hl> The writing is smart <hl>, fast paced, and textured. Veronica is a modern day Nancy Drew, mystery solver extraordinaire. When she decides to solve a crime, mayhem and and excitement always follows. One of the things I love about the show is that while it is outrageous, it touches on real live issues that we all have to face at some point directly or indirectly and it does it with humor and a great dramatic timing!

<hl> The writing is smart <hl> , fast paced, and textured.


Question: Was the 3-d effects of the movie nice o bad?

This movie was in my local Walmart $5.00 bin. I focused on the words, "Tiffany, nudity and adult situations." Fortunately the three did not meet. By the time Tiffany gets on the screen, the nudity is over and nothing to write home about. Like the Mega piranha, Tiffany has mutated and gotten huge, move over Sally Struthers. How big was she? She couldn't get raped in a Venezuelan prison. Likewise Paul Logan gives us his most unmemorable performance.The special effects were so bad, I was crying out for "Mega Shark". They had women on nuclear submarines with a control room that looked more like my living room, than an actual submarine control room. The Secretary of State describes the fish as traveling in "groups" (not schools). The fish absorb nutrients through the skin, yet jump on to land to eat people. In addition to battling various sizes of poorly generated computer fish, Tiffany and Logan must also battle rogue elements of the Venezuelan army.Unless you are into camp and have plenty of glaucoma medication, you might want to take a pass on this one.

Answer: The special effects were so bad

This movie was in my local Walmart $5.00 bin. I focused on the words, "Tiffany, nudity and adult situations." Fortunately the three did not meet. By the time Tiffany gets on the screen, the nudity is over and nothing to write home about. Like the Mega piranha, Tiffany has mutated and gotten huge, move over Sally Struthers. How big was she? She couldn't get raped in a Venezuelan prison. Likewise Paul Logan gives us his most unmemorable performance. <hl> The special effects were so bad , I was crying out for "Mega Shark". <hl> They had women on nuclear submarines with a control room that looked more like my living room, than an actual submarine control room. The Secretary of State describes the fish as traveling in "groups" (not schools). The fish absorb nutrients through the skin, yet jump on to land to eat people. In addition to battling various sizes of poorly generated computer fish, Tiffany and Logan must also battle rogue elements of the Venezuelan army. Unless you are into camp and have plenty of glaucoma medication, you might want to take a pass on this one.

This movie was in my local Walmart $5.00 bin. I focused on the words, "Tiffany, nudity and adult situations." Fortunately the three did not meet. By the time Tiffany gets on the screen, the nudity is over and nothing to write home about. Like the Mega piranha, Tiffany has mutated and gotten huge, move over Sally Struthers. How big was she? She couldn't get raped in a Venezuelan prison. Likewise Paul Logan gives us his most unmemorable performance.<hl> The special effects were so bad <hl>, I was crying out for "Mega Shark". They had women on nuclear submarines with a control room that looked more like my living room, than an actual submarine control room. The Secretary of State describes the fish as traveling in "groups" (not schools). The fish absorb nutrients through the skin, yet jump on to land to eat people. In addition to battling various sizes of poorly generated computer fish, Tiffany and Logan must also battle rogue elements of the Venezuelan army.Unless you are into camp and have plenty of glaucoma medication, you might want to take a pass on this one.

<hl> The special effects were so bad <hl> , I was crying out for "Mega Shark".


Question: How good is the story in this serie?

Avatar is an excellent example of what's wrong with movies today.  It looks great, no doubt about it.  For $600 million (or whatever), it should.  But couldn't Cameron have spent more than ten dollars on a script?[Note: One advantage to writing a review of a movie like this is that there's no need to warn about spoilers.  If you've ever seen a movie of any kind, you'll know how this movie will start, how it will progress, and how it will end.  There's not one plot event, let alone twist, that will engage you.  There's not one line of dialogue that's interesting, let alone memorable.  There's not one character, human or alien, that's emotionally engaging.  It's three hours of eye candy puffing up a ten-minute story.]Anyway, in case you've been held hostage by pirates for the last year*, Avatar is about the exploitation of an Eden-like planet named Pandora.  An evil corporation (what other kind is there in movies?) wants to push the indigenous population out of the way to get their land; they don't want to go; the evil corporation's evil security guy wants a stack of charred bodies, pronto (isn't he *evil*?); a nice guy is sent to negotiate...and you can figure out the rest.Why this took nearly three hours to tell is beyond me; every sequence drags on too long, because every sequence is a step towards a foregone conclusion.  I guess if you've spent the annual budget of the Department of Defense on special effects you want to get your money's worth, but jeez.*In which case, you have a more interesting story to tell than this movie does.

Answer: interesting story to tell

Avatar is an excellent example of what's wrong with movies today. It looks great, no doubt about it. For $600 million (or whatever), it should. But couldn't Cameron have spent more than ten dollars on a script?[Note: One advantage to writing a review of a movie like this is that there's no need to warn about spoilers. If you've ever seen a movie of any kind, you'll know how this movie will start, how it will progress, and how it will end. There's not one plot event, let alone twist, that will engage you. There's not one line of dialogue that's interesting, let alone memorable. There's not one character, human or alien, that's emotionally engaging. It's three hours of eye candy puffing up a ten-minute story.]Anyway, in case you've been held hostage by pirates for the last year*, Avatar is about the exploitation of an Eden-like planet named Pandora. An evil corporation (what other kind is there in movies?) wants to push the indigenous population out of the way to get their land; they don't want to go; the evil corporation's evil security guy wants a stack of charred bodies, pronto (isn't he *evil*?); a nice guy is sent to negotiate...and you can figure out the rest. Why this took nearly three hours to tell is beyond me; every sequence drags on too long, because every sequence is a step towards a foregone conclusion. <hl> I guess if you've spent the annual budget of the Department of Defense on special effects you want to get your money's worth, but jeez.*In which case, you have a more interesting story to tell than this movie does. <hl>

Avatar is an excellent example of what's wrong with movies today. It looks great, no doubt about it. For $600 million (or whatever), it should. But couldn't Cameron have spent more than ten dollars on a script?[Note: One advantage to writing a review of a movie like this is that there's no need to warn about spoilers. If you've ever seen a movie of any kind, you'll know how this movie will start, how it will progress, and how it will end. There's not one plot event, let alone twist, that will engage you. There's not one line of dialogue that's interesting, let alone memorable. There's not one character, human or alien, that's emotionally engaging. It's three hours of eye candy puffing up a ten-minute story.]Anyway, in case you've been held hostage by pirates for the last year*, Avatar is about the exploitation of an Eden-like planet named Pandora. An evil corporation (what other kind is there in movies?) wants to push the indigenous population out of the way to get their land; they don't want to go; the evil corporation's evil security guy wants a stack of charred bodies, pronto (isn't he *evil*?); a nice guy is sent to negotiate...and you can figure out the rest.Why this took nearly three hours to tell is beyond me; every sequence drags on too long, because every sequence is a step towards a foregone conclusion. I guess if you've spent the annual budget of the Department of Defense on special effects you want to get your money's worth, but jeez.*In which case, you have a more <hl> interesting story to tell <hl> than this movie does.