James Cameron's Avatar seems to have rocked the box office worldwide but the Chinese government has decided to restrict its screening in the country. Reportedly, China will pull the 2D of Avatar from theatres on January 23. 2D screenings will come to an end to gear up for the Chinese New Year, in which many of their own country’s films will be released.

It was also reported that a 42-year-old Taiwanese man passed away after watching the 3D version of the blockbuster smash hit, due to a stroke and brain hemorrhaging that doctors believe may have been caused by his reaction to the film.

Meanwhile, the epic film has sets new records for Hollywood films in India by crossing the Rs. 100 crores, marking James Cameron’s action adventure the biggest ever Hollywood film in India. The film has also left behind several Bollywood hits at the box office. The film has also overtaken 3 Idiots in several parts of North and South India and is also giving strong competition to local superstar movies in South India.

On the international circuit, Avatar has received eight nominations at the upcoming British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) 2010 on Thursday. Avatar has been nominated in the categories of best film, cinematography, editing, music, production design, sound and special visual effects. Cameron is nominated for the best director.

The movie has reportedly grossed $1.69bn worldwide till date. Film traders predicts that the magnums opus will soon overtake Cameron's very own Titanic starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, which is also the current highest grosser with $1.84bn at the box office.

Directed by James Cameron and produced by 20th Century Fox, Avatar is an epic action adventure first conceived by Cameron 14 years ago, when the means to realize his vision did not yet exist. Cameron again combines elements of massive spectacle and intimate character to tell a relatable and emotional tale.

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