Few recent films have been accompanied by the hype that surrounded Avatar. Is it justified? Well, the visual effects are undeniably striking, thanks to the latest incarnation of 3D. What about the substance of the film? The plot is as trite as the visual impact is impressive. If you have seen any of the moral tales lamenting the demise of the Noble Savage in harmony with nature, you have already heard the tale. Now let me see, what other oppressed native population rode horses, used bows and arrows, and gave 'war whoops' when riding into battle - no, don't tell me, I'm sure I'll get it. This story was told - and better told - by the 'new age' westerns of the 1950s starring the likes of Randolph Scott. The characters in Avatar don't fare well in a comparison with those earlier examples of the genre either. They are comic book figures - stereotyped, two dimensional and bordering on the infantile. This is the sort of film in which the heroes are so sickeningly sweet you find yourself rooting for the villains - at least they are more interesting! Does this film have any merit? Is it worth watching? If you are under the age of 16, the answer might be yes - otherwise, it will be an insult to your intelligence.