- Zoe Saldaña presented the first 3D footage of ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ at CinemaCon.
- The film introduces two new Na’vi clans: the Windtraders and the Ash People.
- Director James Cameron shared a video message from New Zealand, where he is finalizing the film.
- ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ is set to release on December 19, 2025.
- The footage teased intense battles and emotional stakes for the Sully family.
Zoe Saldaña Introduces ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ at CinemaCon
LAS VEGAS – The highly anticipated third installment of James Cameron’s Avatar franchise, Avatar: Fire and Ash, was unveiled in spectacular fashion at CinemaCon 2025. Zoe Saldaña, who stars as Neytiri in the series, took the stage to present the first-ever 3D footage of the film, which is set to release on December 19, 2025. The presentation closed Disney’s showcase at the convention, leaving theater owners and attendees eager for the next chapter in the saga of Pandora.
New Clans and Expanding Pandora
The footage introduced two new Na’vi clans, each with distinct characteristics and roles in the evolving narrative of Pandora. Saldaña described the Windtraders as a “peaceful, nomadic air-traveling clan” who navigate the skies in massive, jellyfish-like airships. In contrast, the Ash People, or Mangkwan clan, are former Na’vi who have rejected their deity Eywa and now inhabit volcanic regions. Their leader, Varang, played by Oona Chaplin, was seen in the footage declaring, “Your goddess has no dominion here,” emphasizing their break from traditional Na’vi beliefs.
The Sully family—Jake (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Saldaña), and their children—were shown transitioning from the aquatic environment of the Metkayina clan, introduced in Avatar: The Way of Water, to the skies. The footage depicted them aboard the Windtraders’ airships, which are attacked by the Ash People, setting the stage for intense aerial battles and emotional conflicts.
Director James Cameron’s Vision
Director James Cameron, who is currently in New Zealand completing post-production on the film, shared his insights via a pre-recorded video message. “The Sully family are really put through the ringer on this one as they face not only the human invaders but new adversaries: the Ash People,” Cameron said. He also highlighted the emotional depth of the film, noting that it aims to resonate deeply with audiences while delivering the visual spectacle the franchise is known for.
Cameron has previously teased that Avatar: Fire and Ash will be the most emotional installment in the series so far. He recounted how his wife, after watching the film in its entirety, was moved to tears for hours. “She kept trying to get her emotions under control to give me feedback, but she just kept crying,” Cameron shared, underscoring the film’s emotional impact.
High Stakes for the Franchise and Industry
The stakes for Avatar: Fire and Ash are monumental, not just for the franchise but for the film industry as a whole. The first two Avatar films collectively grossed over $5 billion worldwide, securing their positions as the highest and third-highest grossing films of all time. However, the industry has faced challenges in recovering from the pandemic and the rise of streaming platforms. Cameron expressed hope that the new film would provide a much-needed boost to theater owners, stating, “I hope this film can provide a shot in the arm for theater owners as we’re still struggling after the one-two punch of the pandemic and streaming.”
What the Footage Revealed
The approximately five minutes of footage shown at CinemaCon included two extended sequences and a sizzle reel. The first sequence showcased the Sully family integrating with the Windtraders, highlighting the clan’s unique culture and their breathtaking airships. The second sequence transitioned into an intense battle, with the Ash People launching a surprise attack. Flaming arrows and aerial combat dominated the scene, emphasizing the high stakes and danger the Sully family faces.
The sizzle reel offered glimpses of the broader conflict, including the return of human invaders and the persistent threat of Colonel Quaritch (Stephen Lang), who continues to be a thorn in the Sully family’s side. The visuals, presented in high frame rate 3D, were described as “eye-popping and visceral,” delivering the immersive experience audiences have come to expect from the Avatar series.
With its December 19 release date, Avatar: Fire and Ash is poised to be a major box office event. The film not only expands the mythology of Pandora but also sets the stage for future installments, with two more films planned for 2029 and 2031. As anticipation builds, fans can look forward to a story that combines emotional depth, groundbreaking visuals, and a rich, evolving world.
“Fire and Ash is unlike anything audiences have ever seen and exactly what they want,” Saldaña promised during her CinemaCon presentation. If the footage is any indication, the third chapter in the Avatar saga is set to deliver on that promise and more.
Sources: USA Today, AFP, CinemaCon Coverage