Easily the most immersive filmgoing experience for me since the original Star Wars. The effects are amazing, and the world they created is breathtaking and alive. IMAX 3D enriches the environment adding depth to the gorgeous imagery; the 3D is not used for cheap 'pop out' effect. While I would give the IMAX 3D experience 5 stars simply for the grandeur of the images and effects, I would give the story and characters in Avatar 3 1/2 stars. The story was very familiar and predictable, and the messages were not subtle in the least. But the characters and plot did grow on me and I really did become emotionally invested, so director Cameron accomplished what he set out to do. He worked on this film for over a decade, and it shows.