But CGI techniques will only get you so far. You’ve also got to have something worthwhile to visualise. This is where James Cameron shines. His love of exotic submarine creatures has had a huge influence on the visualisation of Pandora. The bioluminescent plants and animals are nothing short of exquisite. James has had the confidence to let the camera slow and the editing pause, so that these wonders can be appreciated and savoured.

But James has gone further. His large terrestrial creatures are clearly related to one another in a Darwinian sense. For instance, breathing apertures are located in the chests of animals and many have six legs (the Nai’ Vi are the exception which appears to be a concession to the film’s plot). Due to the low Pandorian gravity, many creatures have tended toward “super-sized”.

Something that is never explained is how the link between the human driver and their Avatar is maintained. This human communication technology is even maintained in the exotic mountains, where other human technologies fail.

James has left himself wide open for a sequel (thank goodness). There are a number of threads to follow up here. He hints at a diverse planet with “plains people” among others – there is plenty of Pandora to explore in a sequel. What is the link between Unobtainium and Pandora’s native biomass? How will Sigorny Weaver’s character influence future plot events? How will Jake’s unique DNA distinguish him?

I look forward to the sequel, but first I must review the current release many more times 