Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) - Visually Stunning Fantasy Spectacle for Old and New Fans Alike - 8/10 (21/06/23)

A whopping thirteen years after the release of the first movie, the Avatar franchise continues with its bombastic sequel Avatar: The Way of Water. If people expected this film to bomb at the box office because it was released much later than initially expected, then naysayers have got it all wrong because this movie brought masses of viewers back to the cinemas in times when most movie theatres are actually closing shop because most people simply enjoy new movies in the comfort of their homes. Personally, I appreciated the first movie but don't consider myself a massive fan of the franchise. I have only recently been watching this film at the cinema of my favourite shopping mall where one could enjoy it for just six bucks. Certainly, Avatar: The Way of Water has exceeded my expectations and offered visually stunning entertainment of the grandest type.

On the positive side, the special effects of this film are truly impressive. The fantastic world of Pandora is even more impressive in this sequel than it was in the original movie. Whether viewers discover lush forests, floating rocks or colourful bays, every single environment looks absolutely inspiring.

The characters in this movie are also intriguing because it's easy to empathize with them. The story essentially revolves around a small family bound by courage, love and loyalty. Their new hosts are initially cold and distant but go through wonderful changes to become grateful and reliable. The antagonist with his obsessive behaviour certainly also strikes a chord. One has to point out the numerous imaginary creatures that are introduced throughout the movie and especially the sea animals are particularly fascinating.

This movie also has several positive messages that work in the context of our real world. Support your family in difficult times and everyone will emerge victoriously. Speak and stand up against those who are committing crimes and guided by prejudices. Respect the wilderness and protect the environment. This film certainly finds the right balance between fantasy and reality.

This film however certainly isn't without a few flaws. Its length of three hours and twelve minutes is excessive in my humble opinion. This movie could easily have been cut by about forty-five minutes to make for a more captivating, dynamic and fluid ride. The story of this film is easily predictable and one could even call it overtly simple. Other reviewers have pointed out the simplistic dialogues but I figure that this element was intentional in order to appeal to a particularly wide audience by lowering the film's intellectual side and increasing its emotional depth.

Avatar: The Way of Water certainly isn't the greatest movie of all time. However, it's a profoundly humane fantasy film with stunning visual effects. It should appeal to fans of the franchise and anyone looking for an inspired spectacle that invites viewers to dream themselves far away.