Review: ‘Avatar’ returns to the big screen in captivating sequel

in Arts & Entertainment
“Avatar: The Way of Water” introduces the Metkayina Clan, whose ways are very different to the Sully family.

   The “Avatar” franchise made a bold return to theaters on December 16, 2022, approximately 13 years after the release of the original.

   “Avatar: The Way of Water” is about the Sully family, which consists of Jake, Neytiri and their children. In the face of imminent danger, the Sullys seek the help of the Metkayina Clan. 

   I found this movie to be a cinematic masterpiece. It was a marvelous sequel to its already-incredible predecessor. The underwater language that was introduced in this movie instantly reminded me of the Aquatic language in the “Wings of Fire” book series, as well as being reminiscent of American Sign Language.

   “Avatar: The Way of Water” is a fantastical action-adventure movie. The top cast includes Sam Worthington (Jake), Zoe Saldaña (Neytiri), Sigourney Weaver (Kiri) and Jemaine Clement (Dr. Garvin).

   My favorite character in this film was Lo’ak, one of Jake and Neytiri’s four kids. His relationship with the Tulkun, which is basically a space whale, was extraordinary and adorable. I am excited to see what is in store for young Lo’ak in the next “Avatar” movies.

   A lot of people frown upon movie sequels for being inferior to their predecessors, but this one was phenomenal, if not better than the original. I am very much looking forward to the future “Avatar” movies.

   Regarding the next film, director James Cameron stated, “I’m sure that we’ll have a discussion soon with the top folks at Disney about the game plan going forward for ‘Avatar 3,’ which is already in the can– we’ve already captured and photographed the whole film, so we’re in extended post-production to do all that CG magic… ‘Avatar 4’ and ‘5’ are both written. We even have some of ‘4’ in the can. We’ve begun a franchise at this point. We’ve begun a saga that can now play out over multiple films.”

   According to the New York Post, the third installment in this franchise will feature a Clan called the “Ash people,” who are described as the exact opposite of friendly and pleasant. I look forward to seeing the designs of the Na’vi in this new Clan – their name reminds me of fire and destruction, so I imagine their designs will be beautiful and visually stunning.

   The Disney+ release date for “Avatar: The Way of Water” is not yet known; it is likely the movie will not arrive on the service until February, March or perhaps later.