‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Scores $12 Million in Preview Screenings
James Cameron’s “Avatar: Fire and Ash” is making a big splash at the box office. The third movie in the “Avatar” series earned $12 million from domestic preview screenings and $43.1 million from 43 international markets, according to early reports.
Industry analysts expect the film to lead the pre-Christmas weekend, projecting a domestic opening between $90 million and $105 million. Internationally, “Fire and Ash” could bring in another $250 million to $275 million, putting the global launch in the range of $340 million to $365 million.
The first two “Avatar” films set a high bar. The original “Avatar” opened with $77 million domestically in 2009 and remained at number one for seven weeks, eventually earning $760 million in North America and $2.92 billion worldwide.
Its sequel, “Avatar: The Way of Water,” debuted with $134 million and went on to make $688 million domestically and $2.3 billion globally, making it the third highest-grossing movie ever. “Fire and Ash” will rely on strong holiday attendance, premium Imax, and 3D screenings to reach similar heights.
The story continues the adventures of Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña), and their Na’vi family. After connecting with the aquatic Metkayina clan in the last film, they now face the dangerous Mangkwan tribe, a group of raiders living inside a volcano.
Other films are also eyeing holiday openings. Lionsgate’s “The Housemaid,” starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, earned $2.2 million in previews and is expected to open with $20 million to $25 million.
From Director James Cameron, watch the trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash.
— Avatar (@officialavatar) July 28, 2025
Experience the film only in theaters December 19. pic.twitter.com/Y0D4EUGU7x
Angel Studios’ animated biblical story “David” looks to debut around the same numbers. Paramount’s “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” is projected to open fourth with $15 million to $20 million, after earning $1.4 million in previews.
With the strong start for “Fire and Ash,” it looks like James Cameron’s Pandora saga is set for another record-breaking run. It will be interesting to see if it can match or surpass the staying power of the previous films, especially over the holiday season.
What do you think—will “Avatar: Fire and Ash” become another billion-dollar hit, or will it face tough competition this season? Share your thoughts in the comments.