Avatar (HBO)

About Avatar (HBO)

Directed by James Cameron, 'Avatar' is an epic science fiction film released in 2009. The story takes place in the mid-22nd century on a distant planet called Pandora. Humans are attempting to colonize Pandora primarily for the purpose of mining unobtanium, a highly valuable mineral. However, they face resistance from the planet's indigenous species, the Na'vi. The human colonizers use genetically engineered humanoid bodies called "avatars" that are operated remotely by humans to interact with the Na'vi.

Making/Production

James Cameron was waiting for a technology to portray his vision of Pandora, and that was delivered in 'Avatar', a result of over four years in production with an budget exceeding $200 million. Ground-breaking technology was developed specifically for the movie, including a new stereoscopic 3D camera system created by Cameron and Vince Pace.

Actors

• Sam Worthington as Jake Sully, a paralyzed former Marine who becomes part of the Avatar Program. Worthington brings deep layers of emotion and strength to his character.
• Zoe Saldana as Neytiri, a Na'vi princess. Saldana's performance is poignantly impressive as she navigates her character's complex emotions and loyalty to her people.
• Sigourney Weaver as Dr. Grace Augustine, a botanist who mentors Jake. Weaver delivers a powerful performance with her passionate and headstrong character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• At that time, 'Avatar' was the most expensive movie ever made.
• The concept art for Pandora's bioluminescent flora and fauna was completed years before the movie was released.
• The Na'vi language was created from scratch by linguist Dr. Paul Frommer.

Awards

'Avatar' was a big hit not only at the box office but also at award shows. It won three out of the nine Academy Awards it was nominated for: Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Visual Effects. It also won the Golden Globe for Best Director and Best Motion Picture - Drama.

Quotes

• "I see you." - Jake Sully, portraying the deep connection between him and Neytiri.
• "This is our land!" - Neytiri, expressing the Na'vi peoples' determination to protect their home.

Music, Soundtrack

• Original Score composed by James Horner, known for his collaboration with James Cameron in ‘Titanic’.
• The ethnic, otherworldly soundtrack fits perfectly with the visual beauty of Pandora and the emotional resonance of the story.