James Cameron has set high expectations and warns of surprises for the third Avatar saga
At a recent conference in New Zealand with local film and TV producers, James Cameron shared an encouraging update on the production of Avatar 3. The team has revealed that it has entered the post-production phase, aiming for a December 2025 release. We’re now in two very busy post-production years so it’ll be Christmas on the 25th,” Cameron explained.
Calendar changes and the impact of strikes
Originally scheduled for a December 2024 release, the third installment of Avatar is one of several Disney films that have been postponed due to WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. In the year Filming, which began in California in 2017 and later moved to New Zealand, took place simultaneously with The Shape of Water. Cameron has expressed his desire to film in the ocean country.
Avatar, the first in the series, has grossed more than $2.92 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of all time. Its sequel, The Shape of Water, was not far behind as the third most successful film at the box office, grossing $2.32 billion. This success will generate over half a billion dollars in revenue for DC, proving to be the company’s most successful digital launch ever.
What to expect from Avatar 3
Little is known about the plot of Avatar 3, but it has been confirmed that Loak, Jake Sully’s son, will be the narrator. The film expands on the Avatar universe and features the Na’vi tribes based on fire and wind. Cameron has also produced an extended director’s cut of over nine hours, which will likely debut on Disney+.
The third installment is the midpoint of the franchise’s five-film arc, with four and five scheduled for 2029 and 2031, respectively. Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña return as Sully and Neytiri, respectively, alongside Sigourney Weaver.
A new protagonist in the Avatar universe
We see a significant narrative shift in Avatar 3. Loach, played by Briton Dalton, is replaced by his father, Jake Sully, in the role of narrator. This selection reflects the generational shift in the saga, offering a fresh and dynamic perspective. Loak’s evolution from supporting character to protagonist in The Shape of Water promises a deeper exploration of Na’vi culture and its complexities in this episode.
This narrative decision is reminiscent of other major film franchises such as Star Wars or The Lord of the Rings, where secondary characters appear as central figures in a series or prequel. By setting the story on Loak, Cameron is not only expanding the Avatar universe, but also following a successful trend in cinematic storytelling, engaging audiences and embracing new perspectives and developments.
Technical innovation in Avatar 3
A key aspect of Avatar 3 is the technological innovation that James Cameron brings to the film. As in the previous films, Cameron promised to raise the level of film production. With its pioneering use of motion capture and visual effects, the third installment is not only a fantastic adventure, but also a milestone in cinema history. This dedication to creativity reflects Cameron’s commitment to cinematic quality and visual storytelling.
Cameron’s approach to technology not only sets the stage for his own work, but also for future products. Just as Avatar and The Shape of Water influenced other directors and studios, this new installment is expected to inspire new developments in filmmaking. This impact on the industry shows how a single franchise can be the catalyst for change and evolution in the world of entertainment.
The much-awaited Avatar 3 will hit theaters on December 19, 2025. In the meantime, you can enjoy the first two episodes on Disney+.