Avatar

Film evenings begin with optional potluck refreshments and social hour at 6:30 pm,
followed by the film at 7:30 pm, followed by a discussion after the film.

AVATAR
by James Cameron

James Cameron describes his science fiction tour de force as “a futuristic tale set on a planet 200 years hence and an old-fashioned jungle adventure with an environmental conscience that aspires to a mythic level of storytelling.” The enormous popularity of this magnificent film comes from the fact that it is primarily an action adventure journey of self-discovery in the context of imperialism and deep ecology (that is to say, in the context of our times). The film is also a sensation because it debuts a number of revolutionary visual effects techniques.

The film is an emotional journey of redemption and revolution — the story of a wounded former Marine, thrust unwillingly into an effort to settle and exploit an exotic planet rich in biodiversity and wonderfully inhabited by a tall, blue native people. He eventually crosses over to lead the indigenous blue people in a battle for survival. The story includes an entire world complete with an ecosystem of phantasmagorical plants and creatures and a native people with a rich culture and language.

This film has a great deal to say about native cultures that are close to nature, about exploitation of resources by technology, and about the mystery of life itself. It will make its viewers think about the mystery of incarnation. This is a deeply thoughtful production, a fact that will not be missed as viewers follow the carefully written action and adventure story line. The theme, and the artwork, bear a signature that is unique in the history of filmmaking.

Wheelchair accessible around the corner at 411 28th Street

$5 donations are accepted