i watch a hell of a lot of films and im a regular at the cinema. avatar was hailed as being the best there is.
i will say though,although not disappointed by it,it wasnt the best ive seen.dark knight still walks away with it form recent films.

i do think avatar NEEDS to be seen in 3d.it is amazing.the effects are wicked,the colours are visually stunning and the attention to detail in animal movements,and facial expression is superb.
ok so the story isnt the strongest or most fresh but the way its told and acted is great.
you are also gradually immersed into the cgi world,it starts off with alot of "REAL" people etc and gradually bit by bit cameron turns it to complete cgi without you realising.

i may have got more out of the film than others becuase i look at everything,from acting to camera angles to compostion and obviously the effects.