^^Watch it in IMAX 3D. The film was intended to be viewed in that platform so the detail is more evident on a larger screen. The skin textures of the Navi creatures can be seen, as well as many other details/textures on a larger screen (counter intuitive, but true). Seeing that on a computer or even a large flat screen actually dulls the images. One of my buddies saw it last week and told me it was the most entertaining movie he's seen since 1977.. certainly much more overwhelming than Dark Knight.

 

Based on not having seen the movie, my opinion is:
Cliched story.
Cliched dialog.
Cliched visuals.

No idea about the acting quality.

The quality of the visuals are reportedly very good, but that's not enough to make up for the issues. I was examining CGI skin textures back in 2001 with Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. Golem from Lord of the Rings, as another example, was phenomenal - although not as pervasive. 3D has been done before as well. I don't see Avatar bringing anything new to the table, either from a storytelling or technical point of view.

 

I am cautiously optimistic. I too will not sit through 3 hours for a movie soley on the merit of the new technology, however all the films Cameron has made geared for the guys T1, T2, Aliens2.. I've enjoyed. No picture has taken 3+ years just for Production.. let alone over 10 years of development, (story, concept, revolutionary camera etc.). That's why I'll watch this one.

 

Cameron has a great track record, so I am definately seeing it Friday too.

Tan

 

Just saw the 3D version non Imax.. and I am a bit overwhelmed.. I can't say I have a strong opinion on it yet as to where it will fit in movie making history. I was completely entertained by it, both visually and mentally. I think I need to let it settle in for a bit. Great film!

Looking forward to seeing everyone else's opinions.

 

i also saw it last night, IMAX 3D. the story is predictable (you can figure out exactly what happens from the previews), and it's message/parallels are quite obvious and at times almost too much. but it is just done so well. in my opinion this movie is almost like a showcase of the future of movies/tv/gaming. quite an incredible journey...highly, highly recommended.

 

Just saw it on IMAX 3D.

This movie will change everything.
Better than Star Wars.

10/10

 

I just saw it in IMAX 3D

The Cameron giveth - the special effects were awesome. Colors, shading, were all spectacular

The Cameron taketh away - I've sharted better dialogue.

Most of you will love it.

5.5/10

 

While I am still forming an opinion.. 5.5 is below how I would rate the film.. is that a halibut, flounder or a fluke in your avatar?

 

Awesome scifi action flick and don't think anything else can top this for a very long time.