If you’re looking for a wild ride to another planet, you should see the new science-fiction hit, “Avatar.” A lot was expected of it, being the director/producer, James Cameron, has stunned audiences with fantastic past works, such as “Titanic” (1997) and “The Terminator” (1984). “Avatar” takes place in the year 2154 on an Earth-like moon called “Pandora” in a planetary system far away. Pandora is inhabited by large, cat-like humanoids called the “Na’vi,” or Avatars by humans. Pandora is home to a precious mineral called unobtanium, which has an extremely high value. A few scientists and a paraplegic marine, Jake Sully, are with the help of science, “possessing” Avatar bodies and befriending the Na’vi. After spending time with a Na’vi woman, Neytiri, and learning their culture, Sully falls in love with the people. When the humans try to relocate the Na’vi, Sully must choose between his newly-found friends, the Na’vi, and his fellow man.

In my opinion, “Avatar” is an instant classic. The technology behind the filming is ingenious! It uses stereoscopic cameras, which allow filming in a virtual environment. The story behind the technology is what really draws the audiences worldwide. It uses every aspect of emotion throughout the movie, from sadness, to pity, to anger. “Avatar was an amazing movie! It made you feel like you were with and were one of the people!” were the words of Mesabi East alumnus, Justin Meckola. Overall, “Avatar” is a fantastic movie and will be loved for generations to come!