Avatar is technically astonishing, but emotionally unsatisfying. The special effects reach a new level of innovation, but in the service of shopworn ideas and subject matter. The movie feels like a cross between Star Wars and Lord of the Rings, with 3-d thrown in. Moviegoers hooked on sensationalism will love this film, and they should see it in IMAX 3-D to get the full experience. But don't expect to leave the theatre with your soul enriched.