Ridley vs Cameron is like David vs Goliath, but we all know who won in the end...
I totally prefer Covenant over Avatar because it's darker, more violent and a hell of a lot less stupid overall. And it doesn't try to shove that forced on political message about enviromental issues down your throat! haha
It's also a far more realistic and believable movie. Fact!
IMO Cameron makes sci-fi that is suited 'for all ages', while Ridley is the more provocative director, changing movie history. He's not the man who will make a movie to please the masses and to earn big bucks, but just goes his own way instead. And I respect him for that.