James Cameron's
Avatar is by far the top-grossing 3D movie in history, and helped immensely the adoption of stereoscopy in theaters. However, its recently-released
Extended Collector's Edition lacked precisely that: a
3D Blu-ray version, as it will only be offered to buyers of Panasonic 3D hardware. Blu-ray.com already has a
Avatar 3D review of that exclusive edition.
Most readers just will want to know how well the BD 3D edition measures up to the theatrical experience, and according to staff reviewer Martin Liebman, they are in for a treat - if they can get that disc, that is.
The Blu-ray 3D transfer of
Avatar "delivers a mesmerizing 1080p experience that's about as close to perfection as any high def 3D release is likely to come for quite some time." The 3D image "is simply stunning in how seamless it truly is; every moment practically transports viewers to Pandora." Depth, detail and colorare also excellent. Ghosting, the bane of many 3D discs is only slightly and sporadically noticeable.
Marty feels that if this disc were to be released wide, rather than as an exclusive bundle, that alone would sell 3D displays. "Why the highest-grossing film of all time and the one fans want to see more than any other in 3D is saddled with an exclusive and therefore pricy release is beyond the imaginations of anyone but the highest-ups at Fox and Panasonic," he laments.