Avatar: Summary and Analysis
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Jake Sully is a combat marine who has been injured in battle. As a result, he’s a paraplegic. The VA doesn’t have enough money to repair his legs, so he’s in a wheelchair. After his twin brother is killed, Jake takes his place in a project on Pandora, a distant planet. Earthlings need a rare mineral found there in order to solve the humans’ energy crisis.
Pandora is a hostile environment for humans. The air is toxic, and the wilderness is filled with prehistoric-like savage beasts. Scientists have taken the DNA from the indigenous Pandorans, humanoids called the Na’vi, and combined it with human DNA to create avatars. These avatars can then be controlled by the humans in the quest for the rare mineral.
Jake is seduced by the evil Colonel Quaritch to infiltrate the Na’vi in exchange for an operation on his legs. Jake agrees, but he soon finds himself indebted to a beautiful member of the Na’vi tribe, Neytiri, who saves his life. After Jake falls in love with Neytiri and is indoctrinated into the tribe, his outlook changes. He wants to remain in his avatar persona and protect the people from the annihilation the colonel has planned.
I found this movie to be very entertaining. It’s a wonderful mixture of the past, the present, and the future. For example, many of the creatures on Pandora are futuristic yet prehistoric. The special effects are amazing! This is one you simply must see on the big screen and in 3D at least once. After that, you’ll want to re-watch it at home!
The film contains several examples of social commentary. The fact that the VA has run out of funding could easily be interpreted as a comment on our present economic downturn. The rare mineral needed for energy could represent oil, and the primitive Na’vi could stand for citizens of third world nations who have resources needed by more advanced countries.
The movie could also represent the historical conquest of Native Americans by whites. In fact, this is entirely plausible. One sub-group of Na’vi are called the plains people, and they, like the Plains Indians, are skilled horsemen and warriors. Also, the Na’vi culture is much like that of the Native Americans. They are children of the land, they’re hunters, and they have a deep respect for Nature. Even their dress, their weapons, and their use of “war paint” is much the same.
The climax of the plot is the traditional epic battle of good versus evil. You’ll find yourself cheering for the Na’vi as they fight against almost insurmountable odds in an effort to protect their homeland and their culture.
The scenery in the movie is spectacular, with mountains, waterfalls, and jungle foliage – interspersed with fantastical plants and creatures that will both entertain and amaze viewers. Even if you don’t especially care for science fiction or fantasy, you’ll enjoy this film. The action drags a little in parts – especially at the beginning. After that, however, hang on to your seat! The 3D is so realistic that at times you’ll find yourself ducking or reaching out to feel a falling leaf or seed pod.
Avatar was nominated for four Golden Globe awards, including Best Director, Best Picture (drama), Best Original Score, and Best Original Song. It has also been nominated for nine Broadcast Film Critics Association Awards, including Best Action Movie, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Makeup, Best Picture, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects.
The movie is rated PG-13, for language and violence, although it lacks real blood and gore. Really graphic violence is absent, so I feel that it would be fine for viewers younger than 13, other than the small amount of explicit language used.
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I can't wait to see it. I heard the 3D is the way to go.
I was just telling my wife I would take her to see this. She is a Sci-Fi nut. She declined. I spoke with some neighbotr girls today at a little party and they said they really liked it, but I need go to Cleveland for the 3D since it is best. Our modern theater doesn't have the technology yet for the 3D or Imax. bummer. I suppose Canton would do but I am not traveling out of town for any movie. Don't know if the wife will change her mind or not, she is down with the flu and was feeling rotten when I told her. Thanks superstar Habee.
The money you spend on Imax will be worth it. This is an amazing movie in many different ways.
Thank you, habee, for pointing out a most spectacular movie. I had a great read.
Going, watch the 3D!! It's great!
Carol, DEFINITELY 3D!
Charlie, tell the wife to get well soon!
William, I bet the IMAX is really awesome!
Thanks, HH, for reading!
3D or no 3D, this movie is definitely worth seeing. I can't say anything about the social commentaries just that I agree with what you wrote in this hub. :)
In Italy it hasn't arrived yet, but I guess I'll go and see it. Thanks for the advice.
Thanks, Emi! I was really surprised that I liked it so much!
Well, Hypno, you have someting to look forward to! Thanks for reading!
Will have to have a look
I've seen this movie in non-3D..but reading several reviews about how amazng the 3D version is, I'll definitely watch it...it's only around $2 difference here..
Can't wait to see it once MMFF ends...next week..
Can't wait to see the movie. Sounds like a great watch
Bear, if you're imaginative and enjoy emerging yourself in fantasy, you'll love the visuals.
Neilyamit, my friend says there's a HUGE difference! Enjoy!
Cashmere, let me know ho wyou liked it!
Habee, Sounds interesting! I think we will try and see the 3D version. I think it will be exciting! Thank You, Blessings!
great analysis of a geat movie.
Deb, opt for the 3D!! Let me know how you liked it!
Thanks, Bat! I loved the fantasy element.
Nice review, Habee. If you want, take a look at mine at my movie review sight.
Thanks, Rob. I'll go look for it now!
Habee - great review I hoped someone would write about it in the way you have. I am not a regular fim watcher and thought the 3D might be overpowering but I loved it. It did not seem like three hours had passed. Obviously it was the 'pretty effects of flowers and trees' that I liked better than the fighting but it is one film I would not mind seeing again. Well done habee.
It was a great movie and three hours went so quickly. It's probably the first time I didn't get bored with such a long movie. The curious case of benjamin button didn't work for me, I go bored very quickly. But this movie was really great.
Thanks, 2uesday. I was worried about the length too, but once I got involved, I didn't want it to end!
Thanks, Acting! I liked Benjamin Button okay, but this was way better!
I have seen avatar in 3D and its cool!
wow, great review on avatar. you described the symbolism of this film far better than i could have. good job on the review.
I left comments here for freesongz and steven, and they disappeared!!
Anyway, thanks, both of you for reading. Steve, I probably read to omuch into the symbolism, but as ex lit teacher, it goes with the territory!
Great special effects but too much of a love story for my taste!
When I first heard about this movie, I felt I wouldn't be interested although I do like sci-fi. But now the more I read and did some research on it, I can hardly wait to see it. Your hub really has convinced me to go see it definitely by the weekend. Thanks for sharing! :)
I viewed the movie in 3D IMAX - Lookin forward to seeing it without 3D - I think it will be better.
Ipod - there was a love story? I was so immersed in the special effects I didn't notice! lol!!
Money, I hope you're not disappointed. Don't go for the plot - just enjoy the special effects and fantasy!
Fdoleac, I don't think I'd like it without the 3D. The special effects are what got me! Thanks for reading!
I have seen a lot of great movies in any genre. But this movie has been the best out of anything I have ever see that appealed to me on so many different levels. There are moments of happiness, sadness, funny moments, and triumph. If you haven't seen it, it's worth the money...and time.
Wow, Imagine Cameron is the only individual to have two billion dollar box office babies. Too bad the industry discriminates against non Jewish people capable of blockbusters like this. It is what it is!
Fantastic summary and analysis of Avatar! I've only seen the film once, in 3D. But I'd certainly like to see it again. James Cameron certainly is great.
Nice post, thanks for sharing!
Everyone I know who has seen it wants to go see it again. I am finally making plans to see it, I chose the 3D version, cause that just totally fascinates me, stops me eating so much popcorn. I just can't wait to go woo hoo!!!
Thanks, D! I'm glad you enjoyed it, too!
Mort, so true. Thanks for visiting!
Awww, Jan. Thanks - the man is a genius!!
BP, don't count on it! I got so involved in all the wonderful effects that I munched popcorn almost the whole time! I actually got a little sick!
good hub, its an amazing movie, well worth the watch in 3D and glad that a sequel has been confirmed ! :D
A sequel? There's a sequel?? YAY!! thanks, Bozzie!
I personally think the movie has all the subtelty of a steel-toed boot to the face and thus it turns me off a little bit...good hub though!
Well, Jelly, I wouldn't give any awards for the plot, but the special effects were more than worth the admission price, IMHO! Thanks for reading!
Really enjoyed the visuals in this movie and 3D is definitely the way to go. Some of the flight sequences are truly breathtaking!! Definitely agree with your comparison to the Native Americans and I thought it mirrored the story in Dances with Wolves too closely to be honest. In actuality the main thing that marred this movie for me was its story as it didn't really introduce anything new to the genre.
Wow, haven't thought about the Dances with Wolves thing, but you're right! I just really loved the effects - yes, especially the flight scenes!
I see Director Cameron has finally gotten over himself and produced another great movie! Thanks for the recommendation, I've been dying to see this for weeks, I hope I can raise the dough to take my family to the Imax to see it! I enjoyed your detailed analysis habee, thanks benbee
A wonderful film with 3d special effects that are dazzling - a must-see!
Ben, I'm not sure if I could handle it on Imax!
We have been trying to see this movie for the past couple of weekends but it has not worked out (perhaps this weekend). I liked your analogy to the social aspect of society...I think I will try regular version first then the 3D version...thanks
hre you can watch or download this movie totally free!
Hi, mtsi. I don't think I'd like the regular version. It's the 3D effects that carry the plot, IMHO. Let me know how you liked it!
Thanks, Freemovies!!
Hey Haybee...Nice review. Definitly a must see movie on the big screen in 3D.I really enjoyed Avatar, even though the story has been told many times.Dances with Wolves,Last Samurai,etc...I don't care how many times they do it, it's still enjoyable.Although it would be nice if the next time it wasn't the "Great White Hope" angle.
I agree, Raven. but, oh, the special effects!!!!!
Could be fun! I just wish 3-D didn't give me such monster headaches!
You know, Cody, I was worried about the same thing! The last 3D movie I saw before was Jaws 3D, and it gave me a terrible headache, but Avatar didn't! Maybe they've changed it somehow?? Thanks for reading!
Hey Haybee...One more comment, that lead in picture is the bomb. Beautiful image...PEACE...OUT
Thanks, Raven! It is rather "eye catching," huh? lol!!
yes, another great film from james cameron! i really love the story and special effects..thumbs up!
Habee, You were right it was Great! I am so glad that I took your advice and saw it in 3! The storyline is classic but it was done in a past & futuristic dimension the technology and imagery was fascinating... Luv those special effects!
Thanks, Piano! So nice of you to read and leave a comment!
Good, Deb. I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I wanna see it again!
Excellent movie, definitely the best 3-d movie I have seen.
Hope they are making a sequel.
Teen, I hear a sequel is in the works!
habee, I agree with you Avatar is worth all the buzz it has been getting. I took my 6 year old son to see it and he LOVED it!.
Even with all the controversey around it, I must say the cinematography and special effects and 3D made it amazing and fun. You are right, I was rooting for the Navi at the end of the movie.
It was a long movie, but there wasn't a dull moment. I definitely gave it 2 thumbs up!
Glad you enjoyed it, Dynamic. I want to see it again on the big screen!
Saw the film in 3D on Sunday (7th Feb) it feels like I witnessed a new era in films.
As you said the scenery is fantastic and I was taking everything in my stride getting into the plot, until someone threw a gas canister and I ducked, I had to laugh.
You've got to watch it in 3D.
Good hub habee
Tony, I'm glad you enjoyed it. Everyone def needs to see it in 3D on the big screen!
The movie is extremely entertaining. It’s an excellent mixture of past, present and future. For instance, many of the creatures of Pandora are futuristic yet prehistoric. The special effects displayed are amazing. Avatar was nominated for four Golden Globe awards, including Best Director, Best Picture, Best original score and best original song. It has also been nominated for nine Broadcast Film Critics Association Awards, including Best Action Movie, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Makeup, Best Picture, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects. Thanks for sharing such wonderful information.
This is a must see movie for any sci-fi fans...I felt like the first time I ever saw Stars Wars or the first time I saw E.T., This is probably my very favorite sci-fi fantasy movie of all times. I give it 4 & 3/4 stars! I started to write a hub about this movie but figured there would be a lot of write up on how awesome it is!!!!!Thanks Habee for a good hub!
it was amazing!!!!!!!!!
It was a spectacular movie! Liked the concept really well:-)Well-written summary habee!
One of the best movies ever! I especially enjoyed the political commentary that James Cameron put on in this movie. It's really interesting to see how he's gone out and made a political stance even though it may jeopardize his chances at an oscar.
Thanks, Ateenyi, for this extra info!
Thanks, Michael. I appreciate your comment!
Thanks for reading, Jenelyn!
Ezhut, glad you enjoyed it!
I agree, Nick - it was a bold move on Cameron's part. Good for him!
Hi Habee.
What a great film.I would even say epic!
Apparently the film has been played to some Amazonian Indians
who have said that it is a reflection of what is happening to them.
We need to see it as more than a film i believe but as an important message.From indigenous peoples and from the earth
great point of view!
after watching it in the theather i really wanna watch it again > <
had to say that you're a great help with my hw :P
I didn't get to see avatar in 3D but it was still a great movie. Agree with everything you said in this hub!
I'm sorry I missed this movie in the theatres, I've heard so many good things about it.
Funny, Greenheart - when I was watching Avatar, I actually thought about the Amazon and its indigenous people!
Glad I could help, Jeppy!
Thanks, iPod, but you really need to see it in 3D, on the big screen!
Go see it, Daisy. It's still playing here!
Great hub. Such a solid movie. Can't wait for the next installment!
I'm so thankful with your analysis. This will surely give light to my student to do an extensive study of AVATAR as one of his favorite topics to discuss for his academic requirements.
Me, either, Fester! It was super!
Glad it helped, Maria!
This movie rocked, and this well analyzed summary reminded me just how much !
It is my great pleasure to visit your website and to enjoy your excellent post here. I like that very much. I can feel that you paid much attention for
those articles, as all of them make sense and are very useful. Thanks so much for sharing. I can be very good reader&listener if you are same searching for
all to be good. Appreciate for your time!
Happy everyday!
I have to agree, I seen Avatar 2 times and the special effects blow me away each time.
Hi habee
I've Just been reading 'HubPages link exchanges' in the HubPages Knowledge Exchange forum. I thought link exchanging was frown on by HubPages but apparently not; so I have a number of Avatar hubs would you like to exchange links.
Thanks, Mick, for the kind words!
Thanks for reading, Nike!
Hi, James. Can you believe I can't get Hubby to watch this movie???
Hi, Tony. I answered your question on one of your hubs. Thanks for reading!
Well I did go see this a week ago in 3D and it was fantastic...thanks again for the review
Movie was well worth the money. Enjoyed it thoroughly in 3D. Really amazing! Thanks for the review!
See, mtsi? Told ya!! lol
Glad you enjoyed it, Piglitza!
A movie that is worth watching......the effects are amazing....thanks for posting
this movie is really great
This movie is what I call "eye candy". I always enjoy a well made sci-fi movie. Nice job on the the review.
Thanks for reading, Borge!
Glad you enjoyed it, Lea, and thanks for reading!
Thanks, MJ, and I agree with the "eye candy" statement.
It is my great pleasure to visit your website and to enjoy your excellent post here. I like that very much. I can feel that you paid much attention for those articles, as all of them make sense and are very useful. Thanks so much for sharing. I can be very good reader&listener if you are same searching for all to be good. Appreciate for your time!
Happy Everyday!
Glad you liked it. Read Boys On Film for something rather different to Avatar!
THANKS for your writing
Your comments and readership are much appreciated!
avatar is a wonderful movie i like it so much but i would like to know the real names of the actors and the avator names of the actors (movie names)
Saeed, that's easy to find on the net! Thanks for reading!
I loved the movie and loved your hub. Brought back some great movie memories.
I might just point out that, though Pandora is a "distant" planet as you point out, this fictional world is in the very real "next-door neighboring" system, Alpha Centauri. This three-sun system is not visible from Georgia, but I've had the pleasure of seeing it after having moved to the Philippines. Maybe one day we'll have the technology to go there, and hopefully we will have learned the right lessons from James Cameron's beautiful movie.
I LOVED this movie! I saw it in 3D and it was worth it. You've summarized it so well.
Great hub! Thanks!
I am sure guys, all of you enjoyed the movie specially in 3D, it is one of the greatest movie from James Cameron, can't wait for the second one, I bought the BD as soon as it was in stores, you will find a registration code inside the pack so you can go online and register to have your own home tree and download something special for your desktop, enjoy guys
cheers,
The movie addict
I certainly echo your hopes, Lonestar!
Houa, thanks for the kind words!
Thanks for reading, Joe!
Imaginerius, I can't wait for the sequel, either!
At 1st I thought that they were making a big deal out of it but everybody at my school was talkin about it and u know, u don't want to be left out so I asked my dad if we could get it and we bought it and I watched it in my movie theater in my basement and I only saw like 30 minutes but it was awesome
I really enjoyed it
Was it in 3D??
what is VA?
Veterans Administration.
Seen the movie, but unfortunately didn't see the 3D version at the cinema and I look forward to when it comes out in 3D on DVD soon!
Wayne, you'll probably enjoy the DVD, but it won't be the same as big-screen 3D!
Well I've got a 42 inch...wait for it...wait for it.... TV screen, so that'll have to do!
Wow, Wayne! That's a HUGE...TV! lol
wow, that's fantastic!
Thanks, Runway! I appreciate that!
i LOOOOVE IT ITS SO INSPIRING FOR YOUNG FILM MAKERS LIKE ME, THANK YUOOOOOOOOOOO HEAVEN
You know habee - I had no desire to see this movie and my mom bought it and dropped it off to me the other day and of course I literally did not blink once through it. I was amazed and in love with it and so disappointed that I didn't get to see it in the theater. What a phenomenal movie. I may watch it again sometime this weekend before I have to give it back. Great hub!!!
Best of luck to you in your career, Movielover!
Aw, Herbi - I wish you could have seen it on the big screen in 3D!!
what to say.... LOL. I liked it. not wowed, or awed. and I really dont like Directors who slide in their personal political opinions into a non Politicial movie. that aside.
the effects were great. it did have some of the best CGI ive seen and it was fun. I have to admit Im not a fan of 3d. so I saw it the old fashioned way.
and I watched it sure I wasnt going to like it LOL
Guy, the special effects carried the movie, IMO!
THE most over-rated film I've seen in years
Phoenix, if it weren't for the 3D special effects, I'd agree with you!
The best movie ive seen so far in 2010
You see, when I watch a movie, I like PLOT. Sorry. Avatar just doesn't do it for me. I saw it in 3D on the big screen. The effects were SO inferior to that in Alice in Wonderland. And I think that EVERYONE was reminded of the Natives and their invasion. Want to watch a movie with the same message, but a good story? Disney's Pocahontas is just for you!
I wasn't crazy about Titanic either. It came across like, "It's the most epic romance, truest of true loves! Oh, and by the way, they were on a boat and it sank." I couldn't get into Titanic. It's just like, okay, what ever. It's just not fair that they didn't make it more historical. The TITLE is Titanic!!!
All in all, I think that directors like Tim Burton deserve more than James Cameron. Tim Burton is just too awesome. Glad you enjoyed. One expensive movie! Good you didn't waste your money.
Blogger, I loved Pocohontas. I wasn't wild about Titanic or Alice in Wonderland. I agree about Avatar's plot, but the visuals made up for it for me. Thanks for reading and commenting!
Hi, Salman! Thanks for stopping by!
more about michael jackson is only known by his casket
more about michael jackson is only known by his casket
the real thing is that the king of pop michael jackson is still alive believe it or not
Where is he??
great movie overview have the movie rate it about 4/5 because the length
Jchick, it was a little long!
Was watching again on DVD, I think the rating is for, not the type of violence, but the intensity of said situations and combat. They will do that if the battle is a little too hard-edged.
I'm sure you're right, Cat!
I thought avatar was a WONDERFUL movie.they so should so make
a 2nd one and a 3rd lol seriously.I so should give them a heads up
for having AMAZING special effects,costumes,acting,a wonderful dire
ctor.I wish I could so be an AVATAR!!!!!!!!it was that cool I thought
it was kinda sad when Tsu, tey had fallen off the plane and died
maybe he didnt die maybe he just got shot and fell of the plane
and how they slide off the GIANT leaves maybe he did that.In the
2nd one maybe they will find him and will get doctors.I hope that
they find him he was sweet when he wasn't upset sometimes lol.
It was sad watching all of the other avatars die though and the
animals and I liked watching the white ppl die though because
they were EVIL!!!:(I loved it when eway or what her name was
the very pure spirits when natirie yelled eway has heard you!!!:):)
And when the avatars had WON!!!!!:)YYYYAAAAYYYY:);)!!!!!!!!!!!
And how natirie had told Jake that(I see u and he said I see u
to"!:)so sweet!!!!!!!!!:):):)and it made me cry because I was so
freaking happy because they are such a cute couple and that she
was so much bigger than him lol:):0:plol!!!!:)and how he came to
life at the end and he opened his eyes and that's what got me
so excited and that why I watched that movie over and over and
over agian!!!!!:):pSo they need to make a 2nd And 3rd one I can't
can't wait any longer so hurry up and make on lol:) jk but seriously
I can't wait any longer or I'm gonna die:):)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!lol lol lol:)
I'm psyched about a sequel, too!!
Does any one tell me how can watch avatar in HD - quality i am searching for it but unable to find yet :( ? if you have any place for it so please share it here.
Thanks a bunch in advance:)
I'm not sure about the HD version of Avatar. Have you asked at the video store?
Every one must see the movie. The great JAMES CAMERON long live to create such a wonderful films.
Chennai, I can't wait for Avatar II!
thank u! for who post this article! u can really help other people ^^
thanks, Axle!
Wonderful movie i have ever seen
wow ,,, ang ganda ng movie po ... pinagaralan po namin to sa school ... i like this movie..
nice movie
here u can watch this
www.filmmovienew.cpm
Going2Oahu 2 years ago
I went to see it last week but I showed up for the 3D rather that the regular version of the movie. I don't think I could take 3 hours of 3D - plan to see it this weekend!