Over time or under oppression, people will often forget things. They will even forget great rulers or wonders. This was the case with the disciples following Jesus. They believed on him and his miracles, but as soon as a trial came up- or a storm in a small boat; they lost all their nerve and faith and started crying.
Mark 4:37-38, “And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?”
In the film “The last Airbender”, directed by ‘M. Night Shyamalan’; the fire nation forgot about the “spirits” that directed the elements and therefore waged war on the other nations. The water, and air benders all forgot about and lost hope in their leader- the avatar- and was then able to be put into submission by the fire nation. The avatar finally returns and renews the faith of the other nations with his power and works with them to finally scare away the tyrannical fire nation.
Wow---- where do I start?
As you can read from above, there are certain elements in the film that seem to echo what Jesus did. But that is easily overshadowed by the huge amount of Hinduism, Buddhist beliefs and Chinese myths.
First- God is the only one able to control the elements. He will sometimes work through people to control the elements too.
Mark 4:39, “And he (Jesus) arose and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”
Yes the graphics are cool, and the moves are smooth- but the practice of moving the elements without the power of God- is almost Satanic.
Second- Reincarnation is not only impossible but un-biblical also.
Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment”.
The “Avatar” is to have come back many, many times over several centuries. This is one element where we see Shyamalan’s Indian background shine through the film. Go to Google and type in “Avatar”, what is the first result? A word that comes from Hindu religion- the reincarnation of a god. Another point that films are packed full of themes and belief's of the director, who is trying to indirectly indoctrinate you.
This film was difficult to rate do to the fact that it is 100% clean. No language, no immorality….(well there is one kiss--- yuck) and no blood. This would be a great children's film- but there is such a strong Buddhist religion inside it; that it is almost preaching their religion.
Overall:
Tiny plot? Check. Great Graphics and CGI? Check. Kissing? Check. Strong morals of self sacrifice? Check. Simplistic and shallow acting? Check.
Recommended?
For a family film with the parents talking over the Biblical issues.—your call.
Otherwise- No.
I will not recommend this film for watching.
