Avatar: The Way of Water

A feast for the senses that leaves the brain somewhat malnourished, Avatar: The Way of Water is a technical marvel with a sweeping scope that supports an overwrought and underwhelming drama.

Due to its overwhelming box-office success, a sequel to the 2009 science-fiction adventure Avatar was always inevitable, especially given director James Cameron’s past franchise accomplishments.

After more than a decade of rumors and delays regarding his longtime passion project, this follow-up finds Cameron taking advantage of technological advances during the chronological gap to deliver some breathtaking visual effects and dazzling set pieces.

Three hours’ worth of beautiful imagery — shot in 3D and worth viewing in that format — can be overwhelming, however, especially when its eco-plot struggles to deliver on-par thrills.

Still, you can appreciate the impressive fantasy world-building, meticulous detail in its visual concepts, and sense of wonder in exploring them.

The 22nd century story is set about a decade after its predecessor, taking us back to the habitable extrasolar moon known as Pandora. That’s where Jake (Sam Worthington), the disabled ex-Marine who infiltrated the native Na’vi tribe of elongated humanoids through a genetically engineered avatar, now lives with his indigenous wife, Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and their children as part of the peaceful Omaticaya tribe.

They have managed to steer clear of human efforts to colonize Pandora, led by the ruthless Col. Quaritch (Stephen Lang), whose high-tech cloning methods endanger Jake and his family, particularly adopted human son Spider (Jack Champion).

Forced to flee from the forests to the coastal reefs, they take refuge with the spiritual Metkayina clan. But when Quaritch becomes suspicious of their whereabouts, a large-scale conflict looms.

There’s an immersive quality to the painstaking craftsmanship in the CGI and otherwise, which is especially evident as the film seamlessly navigates air, land, and seas. Some extended underwater scenes, a hallmark of the director, are particularly eye-popping and suspenseful.

The screenplay by Cameron in conjunction with Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver (Rise of the Planet of the Apes) delivers an overarching message about conservation without turning heavy-handed. Themes about family and coexistence seem sincere if lacking a more robust emotional resonance.

Of course, many of the characters — their appearance and relationships — don’t feel as fresh this time around, which necessitates Cameron finding new ways to surprise us. Leading into planned future installments, The Way of Water accomplishes that with spectacle more than substance.

Rated PG-13, 192 minutes.