The new science fiction fantasy film, “Avatar” which opened in theaters nationwide Friday, December 18th is a visual feast for the eyes.

Written and directed by James Cameron (“Titanic”) this fantasy flick is even better behind a pair of 3D glasses. The film follows the story of a veteran paraplegic Marine, Jake Sully, who has agreed to take up the task of his fallen brother on a foreign planet rich in resources, called Pandora.

As the inhabitants of Planet Earth have squandered away the last green specks Mother Earth had to offer, they charge the planet of Pandora with the intention of pillaging it for their own greedy gain.

The planet of Pandora is inhabited by a primitive tribe, the Na’vi, which Jake must become a part of to fulfill the human mission, gain the tribe’s trust; this is done by the use of half-human, half-Na’vi avatars.

The resulting story is, of course, what transforms in Jake and the other characters as the avatars take hold. With sci-fi greats like Sigourney Weaver in supporting roles, this film is pitch-perfect for a viewer who wants to be dazzled. James Cameron pulls out all of the stops with special effects, as advertised, but he also hits all the right notes in the details of the picture. Especially in 3D, everything is so realistic, though foreign, and James Cameron doesn’t leave a detail undone, even marking Sully’s shrinking physique as the story unfolds. 

The entire acting cast does a superb job, and even in avatar form, you believe their emotions; Zoe Saldana in the female lead is especially believable despite the fact that her face is never seen outside avatar form. If you want to be filled with wonder as you watch the magic of a beautiful place and its people, this is the film for you. Strap on your 3D glasses and get to the theater for an engrossing and visually stunning ride to the planet Pandora via James Cameron’s “Avatar.”