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Comment: I know that people criticize Horner for self-plagiarism a lot and I never really understood what the big deal was until I heard this score. Yes, there are some great moments in this score but many of the most emotional music moments here are almost identical to his other works. Titanic and Glory sequences run throughout this score. Thus, for me, the overall score is no where near to Horner's other masterpieces: Legends of the Fall, Glory, A Perfect Storm, etc.

Comment: Don't take me wrong. The soundtrack is good but it lacks freshness in my opinion. I've been a fan of Horner's work since "Krull" and ever since I've heard him rehash some of his best stuff. There are easily identifiable nuances from "Krull" in "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" (Horner's best work to date in my opinion) as there are distinctive elements from "The Abyss" present on "Braveheart", and some from the latter here and there in "Titanic". Now, for "Avatar", Horner has gathered up some of his earlier ammo and fired it up (and mixed it with other things in the process, like the "Adiemus"-like vocal chants). A trend adopted by some contemprary film composers (Hans Zimmer, anyone?) either to capitalize on the effectiveness of previous compositions or to compensate for lack of creativity. You decide.

Khan's motif is copied note by note to some parts of "Scorched Earth", for example. Some highly-percussive passages on the battle sequences are too reminiscent of both "The Abyss" and "Braveheart" while others (particularly on the "War" track) have a strong resemblance to "The Wrath of Khan".

The score has an overall "new age-y" flavour, which suits the film just fine. However, besides the theme song's melody, which is cited throughout the score, I can't think of a melody that sticks to you; one you can remember and hum. In contrast, composers like Jerry Goldsmith, John Williams and Howard Shore (among others) use themes for specific situations or characters within a film that you can easily identify and remember (the Klingon theme from "Star Trek: The Motion Picture", Vader's march from Star Wars, Gondor's theme from "The Return of the King", etc.). So... like many other new age works, this score in its majority provides a nice, lush, soothing atmosphere, but little solid musical substance.

If you have the money to spare, buy the Extended Edition (or whatever it's called) that costs a few bucks more but has some complimenting tracks that are well worth the extra dough.

Again, this is a fine score. It won't blow you away, but it's very pleasant to listen to.

Comment: I was enchanted with the Avatar music when I watched the movie the first time. James Horner's music is wonderful and I've collected many of the soundtracks he's composed.

Comment: I thought was the original intent was the freedom to purchase only the music that I wanted...I will just have to wait until I can.

Comment: Bought this the instant after watching the movie. Absolutely love it - very powerful and emotional soundtrack.