I thought the special effects brought fantasy movie making to a new level. Also, I don't see the story as derivative, as much as a classic hero's journey. Of course, it's always the same - from pain and loneliness to new insight and compassion. I think the movie industry is trying to re-condition audiences to feel in their bones that it is wrong to invade the space of others, and pretend like you know what's best for them. Think "District 9". I thought the whole film (Avatar) was gorgeous. Loved the dragon-flying. You can never have too much dragon-flying, especially in 3D.