James Cameron’s eye for visuals especially in the staging of action is undoubtedly noteworthy. But the third part doesn’t have much novelty relying on overused tropes. Oana Chaplin as a new entrant steals the thunder with her villainous act.

Starcast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Oana Chaplin and others

Genre: Science fiction

Direction, story, screenplay and producer: James Cameron

Additional screenplay and story: Rick Jaffa , Amanda Silver etc

Music: Simon Franglen

Cinematography: Russel Carpentar

Production Company: Lightstorm Entertainment

Running time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

The first Avatar movie released on December 18th, 2009, had some novelty particularly the world building. The movie had socially relevant themes making it much more than just a science fiction. Some of the issues explored were greed versus nature, clash of cultures and colonialism among others. The story followed the journey of an ex-marine Jake Sully (Sully Worthington). He is sent to infiltrate a blue skinned tribe called Navi. How his world view changes after intermingling with the Navi tribe formed an important part of Avatar 1.

Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana

The second part of Avatar called The Way of Water released in 2022. A huge gap of thirteen years. This was more of a family drama beginning with the establishment of Jack Sully’s domestic life. But this happiness doesn’t last long with the return of General Frances (Edie Falco) and Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang). They make a comeback to the world of Pandora with the intention of destroying Jack with his family. Left with not much choice Jack Sully along with the wife and children seek refugee with a clan called Metkayina. This clan is also a Navi but they stay beside a huge ocean. Unlike the first part the second one had less social commentary: nevertheless, humanity’s disdain towards other life forms came out in a thought-provoking manner.

Now you have the third part which feels more like a continuation of part two. Avatar 3 is basically about the newer challenges faced by Sam Worthington’s Jack Sully and Zoe Saldana’s Neyitri. There is an aggressive new tribe led by Oana Chaplin. The old enemies are also waiting to strike back. Once again, a huge battle ensues for the survival of both family as well as Metkayina.

A strong aspect of Avatar 3 is undoubtedly the visual aesthetics. The cinematography of Russel Carpenter is in perfect sync with James Cameron’s vision. Three action sequences in particular are definitely big screen worthy. A major shutout though should be given to the big action stretch of pre climax and climax. The way it has been captured with the raw intensity is a delight to watch.

The world building of Pandora with its different dynamics continues to be a major highlight of Avatar movies. The viewers often feel like they are travelling with these characters making the film visually appealing.

The themes explored in part three are similar to the first two. The issues of power struggles and colonialism is an important part of Avatar 3. The battle of Jack Sully and co against Colonel Miles Quaritch is very reminiscent of real word indigenous struggles. There is also humanity’s ever ending need for resources. The theme of Ash is represented through the cynical nature of destruction and hope. Newer themes are also present like futility of war and burden of family legacy.

All these subplots have its share of impactful dialogues, but very loose editing coupled with the repetitive nature of sequences makes it a hard slog. Also, the characters in the third part don’t get much of an upgrade. The trio of Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana etc are competent in their respective parts but a sense of staleness has crept in the overall design making it difficult to care.

Oana Chaplin though gets a solid role lifting the movie’s energy with her sheer presence. Her character is completely unhinged, and the actress chews the scenery. Apart from being a convincing antagonist Oana Chaplin also makes for a great seductress. There is a certain sensuality in the way she sweet talks Colonel Miles Quaritch.

The major issue with Avatar 3 (Fire and Ash) is the lack of wow factor. The movie isn’t exactly unwatchable but needed more high moments. The music too falls significantly short. The background score is generic and needed more intensity.

Final word: Avatar 3rd part is a feast for fans of visual spectacles. The best way to watch it is by avoiding comparisons especially with the first part.