Let me say that if you don’t intend to see this movie because of the actor casting issues, you don’t need to read any further. If you believe all the negative reviews that have come out in regards to this movie, you can stop reading now. Why? Because I actually liked this movie. A lot.
The actual title of this movie should been: Avatar – The Last Airbender: Book One – Water. But that would have been an incredibly long title for what is essentially the live action Reader’s Digest version of the anime (and James Cameron already used the title Avatar). The target audience, viewers of the original cartoon, know the story to include the magnificent ending. The production team of Frank Marshall and Kathleen Kennedy, along with series creators Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko produced a product that I found more than acceptable. There were many scenes that appeared in the film that I said to myself, “I remember that from the show.” Those scenes worked in the anime and they worked in the movie.
The director, M. Night Shyamalan is going to catch flak for the casting, but he should not be tar and feathered for the film he delivered. This is the first of three planned films and it is very “talky” in some spots. But remember, it is the reader’s digest version for those who have seen the cartoon and foundation laying for those who have not.
Is it a great movie? No, but I tend to view this movie just like I viewed the 1978 “Superman: The Movie;” in that, it was a setup to the wonderful “Superman 2.” Don’t waste your money to see this movie in 3D. The 3D was added as an afterthought and is not worth the additional cost.
I’m actually looking forward to Book Two (the second movie), but I understand the various arguments of those who choose to boycott the film and the series. Just understand, I won’t be a part of the boycott because this film worked for me and worked well.
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