New Images for "Avatar 3" Released
The sequel could turn out to be much gloomier than its predecessors
New impressions from Pandora: In 2025, we can finally look forward to the eagerly awaited third part of the "Avatar" series. Now there are new concept images for "Fire and Ash".
These were published in the course of D23 in Brazil. For example, we can get a first impression of a new, nomadic Na'vi tribe that moves through the air in balloon-like ships. There are also detailed water worlds to be admired again.
After the forest and water tribes, however, the focus of "Avatar: Fire and Ash" will be on the so-called Ash People. According to James Cameron, these embody the dark side of the Na'vi and carry a lot of anger. The Ash People live in a barren, volcanic landscape, which is a stark contrast to the colorful forests and oceans of Pandora.
Cameron explained that the anger of this people was triggered by recurring volcanic eruptions. These disasters have shaken the Ash People's faith in nature, leading to conflict with other Na'vi tribes who worship nature. The sequel is therefore likely to be gloomier than its predecessors.
"Avatar 3: Fire and Ash" will be released in theaters on December 19, 2025. If you want to find out more about the science fiction epic, then take a look at our "Avatar 3" Original episode.
A look back at the previous "Avatar" films
James Cameron's 'Avatar' films have had a lasting impact on science fiction cinema, winning a huge fanbase with groundbreaking technology and fascinating narratives. The first two films,"Avatar "(2009) and "Avatar: The Way of Water" (2022), are set in the breathtaking world of Pandora, an alien moon full of fantastic landscapes and strange creatures. Both films focus on strong ecological and cultural themes, transporting the viewer to a strange yet surprisingly familiar world.
Avatar (2009) – The first step on Pandora
The first "Avatar" film, released in December 2009, introduced audiences to the world of Pandora, a lush, alien moon with diverse flora and fauna. The plot revolves around former Marine Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), who is in a wheelchair and accepts an offer to become part of the Avatar program. With the help of a genetically created body – his avatar – Jake can immerse himself in the world of the Na'vi, the indigenous population of Pandora. He is given the task of gathering information for the resource-exploiting humans. But over time, Jake recognizes the beauty and value of the Na'vi culture and falls in love with Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña), the daughter of a tribal leader. Eventually, he turns against the humans and fights alongside the Na'vi to save Pandora.
Avatar was not only a milestone because of its story, but also because of the groundbreaking technology that Cameron developed for the production. The film set new standards in 3D technology and motion capture, revolutionizing the cinematic experience. The success was overwhelming: with worldwide box office takings of around 2.9 billion dollars, Avatar became the highest-grossing film of all time (a title it still holds in many markets today). The film won three Oscars, including for Best Production Design and Best Visual Effects.
Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) – Return to Pandora
After years of delays and high expectations, the second film in the series, "Avatar: The Way of Water", was finally released in December 2022. The film is set several years after the events of the first part. Jake and Neytiri are now parents and have built a family of their own. However, their peace is disturbed when the humans return to Pandora, this time with even stronger ambitions to colonize the moon. Jake and his family are once again drawn into the conflict and seek refuge with a new Na'vi tribe, the Metkayina. This tribe lives in the water and maintains a strong connection to the sea, bringing new visual and cultural elements to the narrative.
A central aspect of "The Way of Water" is the Na'vi's relationship with water and the sea creatures that play an important role in their culture. Cameron, who is an avid diver himself, took this opportunity to incorporate spectacular underwater footage shot with new motion capture technology. The underwater world of Pandora and the water tribes enhance the immersive experience and add even more depth and variety to the world of Avatar.
The second Avatar film was another huge success at the box office, earning billions worldwide. Critics praised the impressive visual language and Cameron's ability to tell a story that not only entertains but also makes you think. The film continued to pursue the ecological theme while addressing universal themes such as family, cohesion and survival in a hostile environment.
