Avatar (3D) is one of the most anticipated movie of the year, not only because it’s James Cameron’s film after a somewhat long absence, but also because of its mega budget and groundbreaking visual effects technology. Using his innovative technique of visual effects making, Cameron has indeed laid the new foundation for future science fiction (or other CGI-based movies) production.

I had the opportunity to watch Avatar in 3D format at MBO Cinema The Spring, Kuching (Thank God they have a 3D hall). And yes, watching it in 3D gives the visuals even more clarity, sharpness and realistic looks. It was sheer genius! I have not seen such sharp and realistic CGI ever. Talk about Virtual Reality! Cameron really nailed it this time! How i wish we have IMAX 3D studios here. That would be even more breathtaking.

The build up of the story was rather slow but it intensifies swiftly the moment you want to say it’s boring. Typical Cameron’s style some would say, like what he did with Terminator and Titanic. It was a good plot though I did expect a more complicated sub-plots. The story went in a typical fashion of human versus alien (Na’vi) in a moon called Pandora and how human (envy of Na’vi’s advancement) wanted to force them to relocate and gain advantage. The protagonist, Jake Sully, an ex-marine bound to a wheel chair, was then called upon to act as an undercover for the human forces. Once within the Na’vi community however, his loyalty to the humans started to be shaky when he fell in love with the Na’vi princess named Neytiri. Sounds familiar? Haha.

It’s a common plot (resembling those of  Delgo and Dances with Wolves as many critics have claimed) but what makes it uncommon and brilliant was the whole story presentation and visual effects. You have to watch it to believe and experience it! I guess the only noticeable problem with Avatar, is a lack of original story. Most harsh critics will focus on this part and bombard Cameron for copying others (though it was not proven solidly). Personally, I don’t really bother about this! Originality in this era is already very rare in the movie industry, right? Innovative should be the focus as the same story line can be reproduced by different ways.

Nobody directs like James Cameron! He paid attention to almost every aspect of the film. What you see on the screen will blow you away. So this is the movie of the year! Go watch it! It’s 5 out of 5 for me!

Oh yeah, if you would like to have a little fun identifying the "deja vu" moments while watching Avatar, look at this post: 10 Movies Avatar Unfortunately Resembles

And next, I’ll be playing its game! hahaha. AVATAR Trailer available on YouTube (shown below):

To check the schedule for the Avatar Screening at MBO Cinema tHe Spring, go here:

http://mbocinemas.com/webcontent/movieshow.asp