entrepreneur
James Cameron, Entrepreneur
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BuzzBy John McEleney
I recently saw Avatar (in 3D) and was blown away. Admittedly the story was pretty predictable; however the graphics, the music, and the overall experience were incredibly positive. In many ways, I think this movie will become this generation’s Star Wars, with a spellbinding new world that viewers will want to revisit again and again.
Even more amazing than the movie have been the financial results, which have been spectacular. It took Titanic several months to reach the blockbuster ticket receipts of $1 billion. Avatar matched this in only 17 days! The film broke several box office records during its release and has become the highest-grossing film of all time in North America and worldwide. It is also the first film to gross more than $2 billion.
Before its release, many film critics predicted Avatar would be a flop. In the face of huge financial risks and doubts from industry insiders, director James Cameron had the vision, the confidence and the passion to see his project through. In creating Avatar, he invented an entire new world, Pandora, filled with fantastic plants and creatures, and human-like beings with a rich culture and heritage. To bring it to the cinema screen, he developed breakthrough technology to create a unique viewing experience and ultimately a huge mega-hit. His vision and inspiration will completely change the way movies will be made and watched going forward.
I say forget the pundits and the Academy Awards. Avatar may not have won top billing at the Oscars, but it won where it really counts: at the box office. I salute James Cameron as an entrepreneur. He took substantial risks, pursued his vision, and developed the innovations necessary to bring it to life. Now he’s reaping the rewards he richly deserves. I can’t wait to see it again.
