Fans Underwhelmed by ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Trailer

James Cameron’s much-anticipated Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third instalment in his blockbuster sci-fi franchise, has unveiled its first trailer ahead of its theatrical release on 19 December 2025. But despite racking up millions of views on YouTube, the trailer has left fans less than thrilled.

Returning cast members Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Kate Winslet reprise their roles, joined by Game of Thrones star Oona Chaplin as Varang, the leader of a new Na’vi tribe called the Ash People. The trailer ends on a dramatic note with Varang declaring, “Your goddess has no dominion here.”

However, viewers have criticized the trailer for prioritizing visual spectacle over storytelling. While many agree that the CGI and worldbuilding are visually stunning, the overall reaction online has been lukewarm. One fan commented, “Every shot looks like a desktop wallpaper,” while another remarked, “Does anyone care for the story or characters?”

Criticism around Cameron’s storytelling has resurfaced, echoing the backlash received by 2022’s Avatar: The Way of Water. That film, though praised for its technical achievements, was described by many critics as emotionally hollow. Reviews labelled it a “soulless sequel” and “an empty spectacle,” accusing Cameron of focusing more on technology than character development.

Fans are also bracing themselves for another lengthy experience, as Fire and Ash is expected to exceed three hours in runtime. Given that The Way of Water ran for over 190 minutes, viewers are expressing concern over what some call “style-over-substance fatigue.”

Still, the franchise isn’t slowing down. With Avatar 4 and Avatar 5 already slated for release in 2029 and 2031, respectively, Cameron shows no sign of stepping away from his Pandora passion project. Some fans have even questioned whether his creative energy is being monopolized by the franchise, with one comment noting: “Cameron is wasting his talent when he could be making other great sci-fi or action films.”

Despite the backlash, Avatar: Fire and Ash will likely draw massive global audiences once it hits theatres this December. Whether it will win over sceptical fans remains to be seen. Until then, reactions remain mixed, and expectations uncertain.