Avatar: Fire and Ash First Reactions on X: James Cameron’s Visual Spectacle Wows Fans, but Familiar Themes Draw Mixed Views

There certainly were diverse reactions to Avatar: Fire and Ash, the latest installment of the hit sci-fi franchise by James Cameron, on social networks prior to the release of the film. The film is to woo audiences—Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water (2022)—in India and internationally as of December 19.

Those who did catch an early screening headed to X (whatever you opt to call it) to share their opinions, and a lot acclaimed the breathtaking visuals and emotions. There were even some that said it was the best of all three chapters.

One user writes, “So after watching Avatar: Fire and Ash, I must say it is by far the BEST film of all Avatar generations. Visually, just as with the first two movies, and the pandora world, they are really gorgeous. Action is hot, Fire Na'vi are fatal, and it surprisingly had an emotional impact."

“Some critics question the three-hour runtime of the film,” says another point of view. However, social media indicates that reviewers are less inclined to criticize the movie. Based on another tweet, "Just saw #AvatarFireAndAsh. I loved everything about the second film, as it was awesomely visually stunning and lots of fun. For more than three hours, it didn't bore me. Varang and Quaritch never left the screen."

Compared to other Avatar films

After comparing Fire and Ash to the others, more fans speak highly of the movie. "Avatar: Fire and Ash | 9/10. I actually liked this third film more than the first two," a reviewer reflected on his shared feelings. One fan suggested everyone should watch the film for the experience as an audience member, not as an analyst.

Meanwhile, not all the response was very bright. A few have argued that the franchise is pretty much walking the path trodden before. One post said, “Avatar: Fire and Ash looks stunning--but feels like déjà vu. More Pandora, more spectacle, same themes. Once revolutionary, now oddly nostalgic. Is it a visual wonder or an expensive repetition?”

Another pointed out the obvious: it is a direct continuation of The Way of Water, claiming that while Zoe Saldaña rocks, Oona Chaplin leaves a very strong mark on the story line, hoping that a little unpredictability might have helped.

On December 19, 0000 Avatar: Fire and Ash will hit theaters in India and overseas. The movie was first premiered earlier this month at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Despite all anticipation building up, early reviewers seemed a bit torn on this premise that, once again, with its visual display, James Cameron is giving a spectacle and scaled story that will need to speak to itself.