James Cameron has done it again, this time he’s taken a much bolder approach to filmmaking and I absolutely love it.
I got to watch Avatar: Fire and Ash a little earlier than everyone else, and I can without a doubt say this is the best film in the trilogy for me. Before I start with my review, I just have to say I was completely wrong about this franchise, and for a long time I thought I didn’t like it. To be fair, I didn’t like the first one, and I never really made time to rewatch it until a few weeks ago.
I thought the first one was okay, but with the second movie I fell in love with Pandora and the characters. All of a sudden, I saw this franchise in a different light and I was excited to continue exploring it. I got to watch Avatar: Fire and Ash in IMAX 3D and it blew me away. The film’s use of visuals and sound puts it in a league of its own. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, and that’s why it’s best to watch it in movie theatres.
Let me start with the bad, since the only bad thing about this movie is the long runtime. It seems like some critics feel the film padded the story, but I honestly didn’t feel the runtime. I can, however, understand how some people might not want to sit through an almost three-and-a-half-hour movie.
The movie has a lot going on, but it never gets dull and it keeps you engaged for most of the runtime. I feel like the longer runtime gives us time to explore more of the world and lore of Pandora, while also allowing ample space for character development. I was genuinely invested in the story, and that might be because of some of the emotional arcs.
Story is still the most important aspect of any film to me, and I agree the Avatar movies don’t have the strongest stories. I do, however, believe this one has the best story. Yes, it does feel familiar and it feels like a retelling of the second one, but it also takes the characters on new and exciting journeys.
I don’t want to spoil the movie for anyone, but Spider’s arc in this film was amazing. Actually, all the characters have arcs that branch the story out into new territories. I might have gotten a little emotional a few times, because the film found a way to truly get me invested in the characters.
I can’t talk about Avatar without at least mentioning the visual effects. It is the most beautiful look at Pandora yet, and I sometimes forget that most of it was made on a computer. The combination of sound and stunning visuals elevates the story and makes this movie unforgettable. It is made for cinemas, and the only way to fully grasp the story is to watch it on the biggest screen possible.
Avatar: Fire and Ash might not be a Christmas movie, but it easily fits into the festive season. It feels larger than life and filled with magic. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it. Even if you don’t like the film, you will still appreciate it for what it accomplishes.
