James Cameron gives 'Avatar 4' update; says next instalment to focus on Varang

Filmmaker James Cameron scored his third consecutive billion dollar hit with the release of 'Avatar: Fire and Ash'. Following the success of the film, the director was quizzed about returning with the next film in the franchise - 'Avatar 4'.

Speaking at a press conference during the Saturn Awards, the director offered an update on the future of the franchise, saying that a fourth instalment is "likely". While he was at it, he also hinted at a larger role for his character Varang.

James Cameron on 'Avatar 4'

The director, who attended the Saturn Awards, where his film 'Avatar: Fire and Ash' took home 4 awards. Cameon won three awards for Best Film Direction, Best Film Screenwriting and Best Science Fiction Film.

His actor Jack Champion, won for Best Younger Performer in a Film.Speaking to ScreenRant, the director addressed the prospects of 'Avatar 4' and revealed how audience feedback from earlier films could shape the next chapter. While clarifying that a final decision has not yet been made, the chances of the sequel going ahead remain strong.“To be perfectly clear, we haven’t even made a decision to move forward,” Cameron said.

“But should I do that, which I will say is likely, but not 100 per cent, we will definitely learn from the lessons of all three films.” He also revealed that the character Varang could be the cenral focus of the new film. “From Fire and Ash, Varang may need to be written up a little bit moving forward,” he said, explaining that the character blended into the wider ensemble because “there are a lot of characters and plates spinning in the story.

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James Cameron on audience reactions to 'Avatar'

He added that the audience and their reactions to his films, often influence how characters evolve across the franchise, much like Payakan, who he says was 'literally the highest-rated character in the film.'

'Avatar 4' and 'Avatar 5' release date announced

The director previously stated that the box office performances of his films are important to continue making the big-budget films. He previously noted that the box office performance of 'Avatar: Fire and Ash', would play a crucial role in determining whether the planned sequels move ahead. 'Avatar 4' is currently scheduled for its release on December 21, 2029.Meanwhile, 'Avatar 5' is also scheduled for release on December 19, 2031.