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Avatar

Avatar is a 2009 American epic science fiction film written and directed by James Cameron.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Avatar is a 2009 American epic science fiction film written and directed by James Cameron. Set on the moon Pandora, it follows former Marine Jake Sully as he becomes involved in a conflict between human colonizers and the Na’vi, an indigenous humanoid species. The film was a major box-office success and became known for its use of performance capture and 3D presentation.

Plot

The film is set in the mid-22nd century, when humans are mining Pandora for the mineral unobtanium. Jake Sully is sent to the moon and becomes involved with the Na’vi, eventually siding with them against the human enterprise.

Production

James Cameron developed the project over many years, waiting for visual-effects technology to advance enough to realise his vision. The film made extensive use of performance capture, computer-generated imagery, and stereoscopic 3D.

Reception and impact

Avatar was a major commercial success and became one of the highest-grossing films in history. It was also widely discussed for its technical achievements and for influencing mainstream use of 3D filmmaking.

Franchise

Avatar launched a continuing film franchise created by James Cameron. Later entries expanded the story world of Pandora and the Na’vi, with additional sequels planned.

Key facts

  • It is the first film in the Avatar film series.
  • The story centres on Jake Sully, a former Marine who uses an avatar body to interact with the Na’vi on Pandora.
  • The film’s visual effects and 3D presentation were widely noted as technologically influential.
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Canadian context

Avatar was widely released in Canada and was significant for Canadian audiences as one of the major global blockbusters of the 2000s; Canada also has a strong interest in James Cameron’s work through its film culture and box-office market.

Frequently asked questions

What is Avatar about?
It follows Jake Sully, a former Marine who travels to Pandora and becomes caught between human colonizers and the Na’vi.
Who directed Avatar?
Avatar was directed by James Cameron.
When was Avatar released?
It was released in the United States on December 18, 2009.
How much did Avatar earn worldwide?
It earned about US$2.9 billion worldwide.
Was Avatar a 3D film?
Yes. It was released in stereoscopic 3D and became known for its visual effects.

References

  1. Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/topic/Avatar-franchise
    Supports: Film series overview, creator James Cameron, plot premise, and franchise context.
  2. Mental Flosshttps://www.mentalfloss.com/entertainment/movies/james-cameron-avatar-movie-facts
    Supports: Basic plot details, release context, and box-office performance.
  3. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avatar_(2009_film)
    Supports: Release date, cast, setting, director, and general film details.