James Cameron’s film Avatar, featuring the moon Pandora, was first released in 2009. The science-fiction film became one of the defining global cinematic events of the early twenty-first century.
Avatar follows former Marine Jake Sully, who travels to Pandora and operates a remotely controlled Na’vi-human hybrid body called an avatar. The story explores conflict between the human Resources Development Administration and the Na’vi, whose home and sacred sites are threatened by extraction.
The film was notable for its extensive use of computer-generated imagery, performance capture, and stereoscopic 3D presentation. It introduced audiences to Pandora’s bioluminescent forests, floating mountains, wildlife, and Na’vi culture.
Avatar received nine Academy Award nominations and won three at the 82nd Academy Awards, including awards for visual effects, cinematography, and art direction. Its release year is distinct from the later sequels, beginning with Avatar: The Way of Water in 2022.