Avatar

Avatar, the must see film of 2009? Yes, it does add to the hype if not more. Visually its just specular and the storyline is nothing short of gripping, and its even more amazing in 3D. The story is set in the year 2154 and the human race have stripped earth of all its natural resources and is on a mining operation on the moon of planet Polyphemus called Pandora, which is occupied by Na'vi, blue skinned humanoids with feline characteristics and bear resemblance to the native Indians. (in fact, Was Studi of Dances with Wolves and The last Of the Mohican's fame plays the leader of the tribe). In an attempt to communicate with the Na'vi, scientists grow Na'vi bodies modified with human DNA called Avatars.

Jake Sully (played by Sam Worthington) is a paraplegic former marine who must replace his murdered twin brother in the Avatar program, headed by Dr. Grace Augustine (played by Sigourney Weaver). Once he gets control of the Avatar he starts to get a bit cocky, which you can't blame him for as he now has the ability to walk again. However, it does cause him to get lost on his first mission. He then get rescued by Neytiri (played by Zoe Saldana) who brings him back to the village, here he starts to learn about Na'vi culture and soon become accepted by them. However, when hes not in Avatar form he is forced to make deals with Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang) and this does start to cause problems.

Storyline is very complex so i don't want to give too much away. I do have alot to say about it. Is it original? No. But really, what is original theses days (as myself and my friend were saying, he did a video review, check it here -

It does borrow themes from other movies like Dances With Wolves (the theme of learning new cultures and personal journey's), Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest (the theme of environmental issues), Pocahontas (love theme) and the visuals are very Final Fantasy inspired. This is not a bad thing at all, James Cameron did an amazing job of of mixing these themes together.

Another theme that i've seen alot of in recent Science Fiction films (District 9 for example) is the concept of the aliens being portrayed as the victims rather than the invaders or 'baddies' to put it bluntly. In this the humans (especially the Military) are portrayed as heartless and greedy, the best example being Colonel Miles Quaritch. I really like this theme as it portrays humans more realistically. However, there is a message in there that there is still good out there.

To finish off, The characters are likeable (well, some), the story is very inspiring and the Jungle and its Flora and Fauna is amazing. Avatar is not just watchable, but also very re watchable and once the credits roll you are left with an amazing feeling that i can't even describe. Go see it.

10/10