‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ sets Indian release date; first look at villain Varang unveiled

The world of Avatar is returning to cinemas this December with Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third chapter in James Cameron’s epic science fiction saga. Scheduled for release on December 19 across India, the film will hit screens in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada.

Ahead of its theatrical debut, 20th Century Studios unveiled the first-look poster of the film’s new antagonist — Varang — played by Game of Thrones alum Oona Chaplin. The striking poster teases a darker turn for the franchise, with Chaplin’s character expected to play a central role in the ongoing conflict on Pandora.

Avatar: Fire and Ash reunites original cast members Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, and Sigourney Weaver, continuing the story of the Sully family and their fight for survival and harmony in the visually rich alien world. Following the massive success of Avatar: The Way of Water in 2022, which crossed $2 billion at the global box office, expectations are high for the third installment.

The film, originally slated for 2024, was delayed and will now release just ahead of Christmas. A full-length trailer is expected to debut in theatres later this week, playing ahead of The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Cameron’s long-term vision for the franchise remains ambitious. Following Fire and Ash, two more sequels are currently scheduled for 2029 and 2031, continuing the blockbuster saga.