James Cameron's Avatar: Fire and Ash has been finally unveiled to the international press ahead of its grand debut in theatres on December 19 and rave reviews have been pouring in for the third part to the epic saga. Many are calling it a "cinematic spectacle" and are praising the filmmaker for making a "satisfying" and "stunning" film in theatres.
The film has been receiving unanimous reviews for its screenplay and storyline, and some say this film is the perfect finish to the trilogy. While a few pointed out the drawbacks of the extended runtime of the film, some justified the time, noting that just like the previous installments, this film too has a few strong emotional elements. A few reviewers also said that Cameron's storytelling needs to evolve, and that Fire and Ash may be the weakest film in the trilogy.
According to the plotline, Avatar: Fire and Ash begins with Jake and Neytiri's family grappling with grief after Neteyam's death. During the same time, they encounter a new, aggressive Na'vi tribe called the Ash people, led by the fiery tribe leader, Varang, who has allied with Jake's enemy, Quaritch, as the conflict on Pandora escalates to devastating consequences.
The film has a runtime of 3 hours and 15 minutes, making Fire and Ash the longest film in the Avatar franchise.
Returning for Avatar: Fire and Ash, are Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Britain Dalton, Trinity Bliss, Jack Champion, Bailey Bass, and Kate Winslet. Oona Chaplin, who is known for playing Talisa Maegyr in Game of Thrones, will portray Varang, the leader of the Ash People. David Thewlis, who is known for playing Remus Lupin in the Harry Potter franchise, will play Peylak in the film.
Avatar: Fire and Ash, is the third entrant in the franchise, and Cameron has teased two more sequels after this film. Avatar (2009) is the highest grossing film of all time, earning almost $3 billion at the global box office. Avatar: Way of the Water (2022) quickly became the third-highest-grossing film of all time, behind its predecessor and Avengers: Endgame. Cameron is expected to make two more instalments in the franchise.