‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Hits Rotten Tomatoes with Franchise’s Lowest Score

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I just saw the new Avatar movie, Avatar: Fire and Ash, and it’s definitely sparking a lot of conversation! Some people are loving it, others aren’t so sure. It’s great to see James Cameron back at the helm – he directed it and even worked on the story with Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver.

The story was a collaboration between Josh Friedman and Shane Salerno. Lightstorm Entertainment produced the film, which is the third in the Avatar series after Avatar: The Way of Water (2022), and 20th Century Studios distributed it.

The film brings back familiar faces like Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Stephen Lang, and Sigourney Weaver. Joining them are new cast members Oona Chaplin and David Thewlis.

Check out the trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash, the new film from director James Cameron. It arrives in theaters December 19th.

— Avatar (@officialavatar) July 28, 2025

I’ve been following the reviews for the latest movie, and it seems like it’s getting a mixed reaction. Rotten Tomatoes shows about 68% of critics liked it, which is actually the lowest score the series has ever received. Metacritic gives it a 61 out of 100, which generally means people are enjoying it, but it’s not a smash hit.

Reviewers are raving about the movie’s stunning visuals, calling it a truly captivating and immersive experience. The innovative 3D effects and action scenes are considered both breathtaking and remarkably well-made.

Many viewers noted that the story becomes predictable, and the movie’s length—over three hours—can feel draining. Some also thought it relied too much on special effects while the plot lost steam, and that its message about resisting colonialism was delivered too directly instead of with nuance.

Most fans of the series will likely enjoy Fire and Ash as a satisfying next chapter, but those new to the story might find it confusing and lengthy. While not perfect, the movie boasts impressive visuals and a grand scope, creating an experience that’s both exciting and exhausting.

Loyal fans will find this a captivating continuation of the story, while those new to it will be immediately drawn in by its stunning visuals. However, understanding the rich backstory of the series will definitely enhance the experience.

Linda Marric

Given its three-hour-and-seventeen-minute runtime, the movie’s pace is surprisingly slow, even with plenty of action – it feels more like watching a very long episode of Antiques Roadshow than a fast-moving thriller.

Donald Clarke

This movie is a breathtaking three hours and fifteen minutes of non-stop action and visual effects. James Cameron has revolutionized 3D filmmaking, creating an incredibly immersive and intense experience that will likely leave you feeling exhilarated and completely drained.

Nick Howells

Although the three-hour runtime of The Way of Water felt relatively smooth, Fire and Ash often feels overly long and exhausting, pushing the movie beyond its limits.

Barry Hertz

What truly sets Cameron apart is his willingness to take creative risks by presenting the unbelievable as if it’s completely normal – like seeing the 9-foot-5-inch Quaritch simply relaxing in a hoodie.

Amy Nicholson

Even with three films now released, the pattern continues: stunning visual effects, a rather obvious message about resisting colonialism, and a tendency to lose the audience’s attention – much like on a very long flight.

Danny Leigh

While Avatar: Fire and Ash offers a fresh installment in the series, it demonstrates that even stunning visuals aren’t always enough to win over critics.

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2025-12-16 18:45