"A Never-Ending Visual Spectacle:" Critics Are Going Crazy Over 'Avatar: The Way of Water"

The embargo has lifted on long-awaited James Cameron epic Avatar: The Way of Water, which makes its theatrical release on December 16.

The theatrical release of new James Cameron epic Avatar: The Way of Water is just one week away. On Tuesday (December 6), the blue carpet was rolled out for the world premiere of Avatar, which was hosted in London with guest appearances from the full cast, including Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Kate Winslet, Sigourney Weaver and others. The film comes thirteen years after the inaugural Avatar and will be followed by three more installments in 2024, 2026 and 2028.

Critics commended the follow-up to the first Avatar, which broke the box office as the highest-grossing release of all-time with $2.92 billion. However, in a recent interview with WWD, Saldana revealed that she hopes The Way of Water touches viewers more than becoming a blockbuster smash.

"Obviously I’m hoping for ‘Avatar 2: The Way of Water’ to have a very beautiful impact on people. But it’s not for the sake of breaking any records or making a ton of money," the actress said. "I think this saga is special. It was made with a lot of love and a lot of work. And it’s an experience worth having.”

So far, film critics seem to agree, many praising Avatar for visuals and a captivating storyline more dynamic than its 2009 predecessor.

Rama's Screen editor-in-chief, Rama Tampubolon, called the film a "visual splendor," adding that it's the "year's biggest most cinematic thrill-ride adventure."

Check out more Avatar reviews below.