Cameron’s Shocking Avatar: Fire and Ash Preview

Seven years have passed since production began on Avatar: The Way of Water and its sequel, and now we finally have a first look at the next chapter in the franchise. At Disney's D23 fan event in Anaheim, James Cameron, Sam Worthington, and Zoe Saldaña unveiled Avatar: Fire and Ash.

Cameron shared that the new film features heightened emotional stakes and presents new, difficult challenges for familiar characters. He promised that while the film may not be what viewers expect, it will certainly be what they want.

Cameron had previously considered concluding the series after the third movie, depending on audience interest. Since The Way of Water grossed over $1 billion, cementing itself as one of Cameron’s top three highest-grossing films, the series' future is now assured, with Cameron even discussing the possibility of up to seven films in the franchise.

It was previously announced that Avatar: Fire and Ash would not meet its original Christmas 2024 release target and has been postponed to Christmas 2025 due to an extensive two-year post-production period. Before his passing in July, producer Jon Landau revealed that the film will introduce a new fiery Na'vi tribe, known as the "Ash People," led by a character named Varang, portrayed by Oona Chaplin.

Cameron hinted that these new characters might be ones audiences will "love to hate."

The film will feature a mix of returning stars like Worthington, Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, and Stephen Lang, alongside newcomers such as David Thewlis, who will play Peylak. Avatar: Fire and Ash will explore new regions of Pandora and introduce more cultures, continuing the trend of expanding the franchise’s universe. Jack Champion mentioned that the script takes unexpected turns, promising surprising developments. Fans should prepare for Avatar: Fire and Ash, set to hit theaters on December 19, 2025.