AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER
4.5 OUT OF 5 STARS
After thirteen years, visionary filmmaker James Cameron transports us back to Pandora in a boundless visceral and visual experience that only he can provide. From the forest to the sea, his world building is mind-blowing with extraordinary EFX in astonishing detail. Avatar was groundbreaking back in 2009 and he’s gone and done it again in this stunning sequel that exceeds its predecessor on every level. Cameron is indeed still the King of the World.
Involving a fantastic cast that includes Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, and Kate Winslet – Cameron introduces old and new characters to gorgeously explore and expand on Pandora’s spirituality and aura. Then there’s the thrilling action sequences on land, in the air, and under the water that’s skillfully done, which should surprise no one. More so, the story just feels much more meaningful this time around.
Without a doubt, the technical advancements are the star of the show. How could they not be? You’re in constant awe. Though brace yourself for when the HFR kicks in because it’s a little distracting at first. But one major improvement is how emotionally engaging this movie is, focusing around family as well as resonant themes of the beauty of nature and sharing the world with all species. Shining through such an unbelievable spectacle is this real sense of sincerity and gentleness that I’m not sure we’ve seen from Cameron until now.
Avatar: The Way of Water soars to unimaginable new heights. It’s an immersive feat of filmmaking with a better script, a more affective narrative, great performances, and, of course, further visual achievements. See it on the biggest screen possible while wearing those stylish 3D glasses. You’ll live in regret if you don’t. Is it just me or is cinema never the same after a big Cameron blockbuster? He pushes it to the very edge every time. This is his world and we’re especially excited to live in it.
Brandon Vick is a member of The Music City Film Critics’ Association and the Southeastern Film Critics Association, the resident film critic of the SoBros Network, and the star of The Vick’s Flicks Podcast. Follow him on Twitter @SirBrandonV and be sure to search #VicksFlicks for all of his latest movie reviews.
Subscribe to the SoBros Network Patreon here – $5/month gets you instant access to an exhaustive content library of articles, podcasts, and videos created exclusively for our subscribers!
