Provide a brief description of the film/program's story plot for our readers
A young paraplegic soldier is offered an opportunity to be part of a mission on the moon of a distant planet where a human corporation is ready to start mining a precious ore which rests underneath the village of the local Navi people. The Navi live in harmony with their habitat in a beautiful way. The soldier comes into conflict with wanting to help them and his old life.
What is your personal opinion of this film/program, as entertainment?
I think it is beautifully wrought, breathtaking, and profound.
What is your personal opinion of this film/program as a social and/or cultural message? Does it succeed or fail in this regard?
I think this film does an amazing job of illustrating how a people can live in harmony with their planet and their habitat--as well as show the contrast of how we live on earth today. I think and hope that it provides people with a new vision for how it could be here, if we choose it and change our way of interacting with our resources.
What impact do you feel the movie will likely have on the way people worldwide will perceive the Mayan Calendar?
I don't know that people will make the connection as it is not directly linked to this movie, but I love the message and hope that it will inspire people to look for more examples of these teachings.
If you had the chance to remake this film/program, what would you do differently?
There's a saying in the film: "I see you." This statement is reflective of the speaker seeing the other's heart and soul, not just their face. At the end, when the soldier has newly and fully inhabited his Navi avatar, he opens his eyes. Instead of ending it right there after a nano-second, I would give the film more time there and cut to her face as well. I would have him say, "I see you" to his new bride.
Would you recommend this film/program to your family, friends and colleagues? Why or why not?
Yes. For all reasons stated above.
What would you like to say to the film's director, and/or the production studio?
Excellent job. You did really beautifully use the CG to show beauty and the magic of the plant life as well as did a good job of illustrating the belligerance of the humans without making it too violent.
("2012" only) Roland Emmerich is allegedly planning a television series "post 2012". What do you think of this idea?
Doesn't seem to apply to Avatar.
