James Cameron’s latest sci-fi epic, Avatar: Fire and Ash, has claimed the top spot at the US and Canadian box office following its opening weekend, even as reviews from critics remain divided. The third instalment in the Avatar franchise earned an estimated $88 million in its first few days, securing a strong start but falling short of the opening performance of 2022’s The Way of the Water.
Industry analysts note that Avatar films are known for their long theatrical runs rather than explosive debuts. Previous entries dominated cinemas for weeks after release, and experts believe Fire and Ash could follow the same pattern. The film has already pulled in significant international revenue, including solid takings in the UK and Ireland, pushing its global earnings into the hundreds of millions of dollars.
The movie reunites Zoe Saldaña and Sam Worthington as Neytiri and Jake Sully, who once again face new threats on Pandora. While some reviewers praised the film’s visual ambition and technical mastery, others criticised its lengthy runtime and questioned whether the franchise still carries the same sense of innovation that once set it apart.
Despite the divided opinions, strong audience turnout suggests that the Avatar series continues to command global attention, with its box office performance expected to grow in the weeks ahead.
