I maintain that Avatar wasn't actually a movie, but a 178 minute long digital painting. You can get rid of the sound, or sub in music for most of the movie, and I would be equally entertained. There is an audience now, small but growing, who have read so much, interacted with, and thoughtfully consumed so many stories, that good storytelling is no longer so much about the story, as it is about the telling, if you understand what I'm trying to say.
I don't understand what you are trying to say but I've read your comment several times now. Willing to expand a bit? I've been thinking about Avatar a since I read this post and might have a few more things to say about it after I finish some Christmas baking and package wrapping. Love to hear some more perspectives on the film.
Avatar is a visual treat. Every other frame could be made into a half-decent poster or mural. The color palette is vibrant, evocative, and the art style juuuuuust close enough to 'real-life' as to be convincing, but not so close as to be accused of 'realistic.' Yes, the story is essentially just Dances with Wolves, but I'm not watching Avatar for the riveting plot, or detailed, captivating characters. I watch it because it's GORGEOUS.