On July 23, 2010 James Cameron announced to a sea of eager fans that August 21 would be known as Avatar Day. So on the 21st of August last year Fox respectfully seized as many IMAX and large format theaters to show fifteen minutes of footage to the public for free, a bold move in the marketing of this epic film. Exactly a year and six days later, Fox releases Avatar: Special Edition to the public in much the same way they did then. Unlike the initial release of this film, the special edition bears an additional 9 minutes of footage never seen before.
In this extended release you can expect to see lengthened scenes that show the colorful world of the Na’vi and Pandora, with the addition of an amazing hunting scene where the tribe together hunts large game. Those extremely familiar to the movie might notice subtle changes to the dialog but the spirit and nature are definitely preserved. Many expecting a more vivid show regarding the Na’vi mating scene between Jake and Neytiri might be disappointed. Although slightly extended it still holds very true to its PG-13 roots.
If anything, these additional minutes help lend to the setting and mood of this epic scale film that probably seemed a little daunting to the studio when they had to release an already lengthy movie. With the audience already familiar with the material, they needn’t worry about them being discouraged by the running time. In all actuality they should be more concerned about fans thinking they are just trying to take more money out of their pockets. Judging from the full theaters and applauses when the credits roll, it’s easy to imagine that Fox shouldn’t worry too much about that.
Why see a movie that more than likely you’ve already seen and maybe have on DVD or Blu-ray? This new release is not for everyone. If you are just the person or couple who are looking to waste a few hours of your weekend then you should hit up a Redbox. No, those that are going to find this release of Avatar fulfilling are the dedicated fans that love it or the moviegoers that can’t miss cultural events in cinema history.
James Cameron has created a film that still has the ability to sustain its profile months after its release and still keep people interested. If for whatever reason you have not seen this movie, this is the perfect time to do so. If you loved the movie and want to see it majestically on a large screen one last time, try the IMAX, the quality is hands down better and more noticeable than that of normal cinema theaters.
Rated PG-13 for intense epic battle sequences and warfare, sensuality, language and some smoking.
