TMA FilmCast #26 – Avatar | The Moving Arts Film Journal

Growing up in the 80s, Scott and I are quite fond of the brilliant special effects of our youth. From “Jaws” to “E.T.” to “The Empire Strikes Back,” you just can beat some good ol’ practical Hollywood effects. Or can you? This week we’ll discuss James Cameron’s much ballyhooed attempt at making practical effects all but obsolete with his cutting edge CGI technology in “Avatar.” Has Mr. Cameron finally crossed the Uncanny Valley? Are stuntmen out of work for good? And most importantly, Is $400 million and 14 years enough to put together a decent script? You’ll have to listen to find out!