James Cameron has confirmed that Avatar 3 is on schedule for release next year, with plans for a significant time jump in the fourth installment. After becoming a box office success in 2009, Avatar left a lasting impact on audiences and is set to continue its legacy with the upcoming sequels.
After 13 years, the director defied expectations with Avatar: The Way of Water, a massive box office hit that silenced the doubters who didn't believe a franchise with "no cultural impact" could become such a phenomenon.
Now, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the third and fourth movies, with the gap between the first two entries being just two years. The story is set to take a massive leap in Avatar 4.
Avatar 3 and 4 to have major time jump, James Cameron reveals
In order to maintain continuity with his younger stars, Cameron filmed parts of Avatar 3 and 4 alongside The Way of Water.
"We conducted the filming for 'Avatar: The Way of Water' and 'Avatar 4' simultaneously, with the live-action photography and capture work intertwined. This was necessary as the young characters will have a significant time jump in 'Avatar 4,' so part of the filming for that movie was also completed. James Cameron revealed this to People, indicating that 'Avatar 4' will feature a 6-year time jump." (Source: @Variety)
ScreenTime (@screentime) December 12, 2023
Cameron also mentioned that there will be a significant time leap between the upcoming sequels. "We see them, and then we skip ahead six years, and when we come back, that's the part we haven't filmed yet. We will begin working on that after the release of the third installment," he explained.
There have been hints about the shape of their future stories. It will involve a deeper exploration of different Na’vi cultures, starting with the "Ash People" who symbolize fire. Additionally, the focus will shift from negative human examples to more positive Na'vi examples. The story will also venture into new universes while continuing the journey of the main characters. It is promised that the upcoming parts will be the best, with the earlier ones serving as an introduction and a way to set the stage for what's to come.
Producer John Landau revealed in an interview with Empire that Avatar 4 will focus on Kiri, Lo’ak, Tuktirey, and Spider as they transition into adulthood, with the fifth installment taking place on Earth. Landau expressed his hope that each movie, including The Way of Water, will come to a satisfying conclusion and pave the way for the next chapter, while also setting up the evolving storylines and decisions of the characters. He mentioned that the new chapters will delve into the future paths of these characters and how their choices will impact the ongoing narrative.
Avatar 3 will hit cinemas on December 19, 2025. Find out more about the movie here.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate fan of the Avatar franchise, I am thrilled to hear about the upcoming sequels and the exciting developments shared by James Cameron. The news of a significant time leap in Avatar 4 has piqued my curiosity and heightened my anticipation for the continuation of the story. The prospect of exploring different Na'vi cultures, particularly the "Ash People," and witnessing the growth and evolution of the main characters as they transition into adulthood adds a captivating layer to the narrative.
The success of Avatar: The Way of Water has proven that the franchise has a strong cultural impact, and I believe that the upcoming sequels will only further solidify its place in cinematic history. Cameron's dedication to maintaining continuity by filming parts of Avatar 3 and 4 simultaneously demonstrates his commitment to the integrity of the story and his vision for the franchise. I am confident that Avatar 4 and the subsequent installments will deliver an immersive and emotionally resonant experience, expanding the universe and leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.