Avatar

IMAX 3D Rerelease Over the years, the criticisms for Avatar have only gotten stronger, but the undeniable fact is that James Cameron as a visionary makes this movie a spectacle and let's the numbers speak for themselves. While it might not jive with those who either aren't big on sci-fi or draw comparisons to other stories with similar themes– the motion capture, visual presentation, and unique concepts alone make this a masterpiece. Caught the 2022 re-release in theaters, and the IMAX 3D format really does this movie justice, just like how it did back in 2009. The CGI for the character and world design is still top-of-the-line, and the nighttime and forest scenes show some of the most masterful use of colors in movies to date. Particles, HUDs, and landscapes add to the immersion even further, and I might even add that this franchise is the only time I ever really consider 3D over 2D. It feels deliberate most of all, and sets a standard in the industry that no other has been able to follow. Huge mention for James Horner's transporting score, which gets larger with life with every watch. RIP James, your work solidifies many of my favorite memorable scenes: -The main theme during the learning montage -The attack and aftermath of Hometree -The soft trill of military drums when Jake pleads with Eywa At the end of the day, Avatar has passionately earned its spot in the box office records, remains confident in its seamless story, and is a sci-fi epic at its core. What helps it stand out in the world of sci-fi is the originality of its art design and the concepts of the avatar link and identity. 13 years later, the sneak peek of Avatar: The Way of Water makes the story relevant yet again, with James Cameron breaking new depths with underwater motion capture filming that I seriously cannot wait for. If anyone can pull this off, it's him.