‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Lands $12 Million in Previews Ahead of Opening Weekend

by

Following a strong opening weekend, Avatar: Fire and Ash is poised to determine the future of the Avatar movie series. Director James Cameron has explained that the film’s financial performance will decide whether more Avatar movies are made. Luckily, initial box office results suggest audiences are still captivated by the story of the Sully family and the world of Pandora.

According to Variety, Avatar: Fire and Ash earned $12 million in early previews domestically, suggesting a strong opening weekend. While this is lower than the $17 million earned by The Way of Water, it’s a good indication of how the film will perform. Current projections estimate Fire and Ash will make between $90 and $105 million by the end of the weekend – more than the original Avatar from 2009, but less than The Way of Water‘s $134 million. The film’s long-term success will depend on how well it continues to draw audiences in the coming weeks, as both previous films had incredibly strong runs. However, it’s already clear that audiences are still interested in James Cameron’s Avatar franchise.

Despite some fans wishing James Cameron would move on to new projects, Avatar: Fire and Ash is already proving to be a huge financial success for both the director and Disney, likely exceeding $1 billion in earnings. It’s hard to believe the studio won’t want to continue the Avatar saga with planned fourth and fifth movies, even if Fire and Ash doesn’t perform as well as the first two films. Considering those earlier Avatar movies are among the highest-grossing films ever made, a sequel earning close to $2 billion could easily secure Cameron the go-ahead for two more installments. Currently, Avatar 4 is scheduled for release on December 21, 2029, and Avatar 5 on December 19, 2031.

James Cameron Sends Message to Those Who Want Him To Move on From ‘Avatar’


20th Century Studios

James Cameron recently told The Hollywood Reporter that the success of Avatar: The Seed Bearer (also known as Fire and Ash) will determine whether he makes two additional Avatar movies. He also strongly defended his focus on the Avatar franchise over the past ten years, responding to criticism about his creative choices.

I’m happy with my work as an artist, and people who criticize my choices can make their own decisions when they’re in a position to do so – or simply respect my process. Ultimately, these are my decisions, and it’s inappropriate for others to question them. It’s like criticizing someone’s personal life – it’s none of their concern.

Cameron says he won’t know if the series will continue until after Fire and Ash has been in theaters for a while. He’s actually happy if the story wraps up with three movies, even though he has ideas for more stories later on.

This could be the final test. There’s just one major question left about the future of movies. When Avatar 3 comes out, it will show us whether going to the cinema is still a popular experience, or if it’s only for specific kinds of films. It’s really uncertain, and we’ll have to wait until mid-January to find out.

Cameron doesn’t want Avatar to define his work for the next few years, even though he’s still very enthusiastic about it. He’s considering taking a less direct role in future Avatar projects to free up time for other films and creative endeavors.

I have more stories I want to tell, including continuing the world of Avatar. However, I don’t want to spend years focusing only on Avatar films. I’m looking for a more collaborative approach. While I won’t stop directing entirely, I plan to take a less detailed, hands-on role in the filmmaking process.

Read More

2025-12-19 20:48