SS Rajamouli’s Enthralling Review of Avatar: Fire and Ash

SS Rajamouli, the renowned Indian director known for his blockbuster films, has unveiled his impressions of James Cameron’s newest creation, Avatar: Fire and Ash. During a virtual conversation with Cameron aimed at promoting the movie, Rajamouli shared that he was honored to be the first viewer in India for this much-anticipated third chapter of the Avatar series, a moment he deemed “incredibly special.”

Expressing his admiration for Cameron's artistry, Rajamouli applauded the film’s stunning visuals and intricate narrative. “Experiencing Fire and Ash was truly remarkable. I appreciate the effort in designing those complex visuals and character arcs. It made me feel like a child in the cinema, especially with the Wind Traders, the Ash People, and the new characters. Varang was exceptionally captivating,” he remarked.

The filmmaker emphasized the story’s emotional and ethical dimensions, highlighting the journey of Jake Sully, now entirely linked with Pandora. Rajamouli noted that Jake’s internal conflicts kept him thoroughly engaged, stating, “I believed the first Avatar was strong enough; I questioned whether this sequel could ever exceed it, but it surpasses expectations.”

He also hinted at pivotal clashes in the narrative, particularly the dynamic between Jake Sully and the former military commander Miles Quaritch, along with tensions involving Varang and Neytiri. “The film captivates with its rich conflicts, especially between Miles and Jake, and Neytiri’s interactions with Varang. In the original film, I despised Miles; however, in Fire and Ash, I find myself conflicted. I struggle to hate him while also feeling a connection. Their exchanges are beautifully crafted, filled with tension,” he shared.

Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third film in the franchise, follows Avatar (2009) and Avatar: The Way of Water (2022). It made its debut at the Dolby Theatre on December 1, 2025, and is set for theatrical release on December 19. Rajamouli's endorsement heightens the excitement among fans in India and globally, as they gear up to experience the visually stunning and emotionally resonant world of Pandora once more.