James Cameron’s Blunt Take on Splitting Avatar Sequel
James Cameron didn’t mince words when the studio questioned his plan to split Avatar: The Way of Water. We look at the director’s response, the production choices, and the buzz around Avatar: Fire and Ash.
When it came to dividing Avatar: The Way of Water into two separate films, James Cameron had a typically direct answer for the studio’s hesitation. The director, known for his no-nonsense approach, faced a bit of resistance from the higher-ups about the idea. Originally, both The Way of Water and Fire and Ash were meant to be a single, sprawling story. But as the project grew, so did the need to split it in two.
Studio Pushback and Cameron’s Response
There were whispers that Cameron might have forged ahead with the extra film without much input from the studio, assuming they’d just go along with it. He set the record straight, saying he actually copped a fair bit of pushback. In his own words:
‘What part of you getting another chance to make two billion dollars is in question here?’
It’s a fair point, considering the original Avatar still holds the crown as the highest-grossing film ever, raking in $2.9 billion, while The Way of Water isn’t far behind, sitting in third place with $2.3 billion, just after Avengers: Endgame.
New Faces and Early Reactions
With Fire and Ash, the franchise introduces a fresh Na’vi clan, the Mangkwan, also called the Ash People. This group, led by the fierce Varang (played by Oona Chaplin), brings a new dynamic to the story. Early feedback from both punters and critics has been overwhelmingly positive. The visuals have been called ‘boundary-pushing’, and some are already calling Fire and Ash the standout entry in the series so far.
What’s Next for the Franchise
Looking ahead, the next two instalments are already locked in. Avatar 4 is set to hit cinemas on 21 December 2029, with Avatar 5 following on 19 December 2031. By then, Cameron might have earned himself a few more favours with the studio, given the billions his films have pulled in. For those keen to keep track, there’s always the latest release calendars and guides to upcoming blockbusters.