The conflict on Pandora escalates as Jake and Neytiri's family encounter a new, aggressive Na'vi tribe.

I have never been an Avatar fan boy. While I enjoyed the previous two films because they were visually stunning and technically ground breaking, I've never truly felt invested in the story or it's many characters. This changed with Avatar: Fire and Ash. With a story and character arcs that will grip you from the opening frame, Avatar: Fire and Ash is the best Avatar film yet.

Jake Sully's family is dealing with grief after Neteyam's death, as they encounter a new, warlike Na'vi tribe called the Ash People, led by the formidable Varang. This forces Jake to unite the fragmented Na'vi clans against a devastating new human threat to Pandora.

Avatar: Fire and Ash picks up right where The Way of Water left off. And while this is a spoiler free review so I won't be going into the depths of the narrative, there are character arcs here that finally pay off packed with more heart than the previous installments. Also, the main antagonist Varang is a breath of fresh air both as a character and the direction she sends the story as a result.

While the second act felt a little bloated and could have had some trimming, with a nearly three and a half hour run time it could definitely afford it, the first hour or so is the best in the whole franchise. It just pulls you straight into the world with heartfelt character moments and heart pounding action to boot.

As you'd expect Fire and Ash is a visual feast. From brand new creatures and lands, Cameron is further building his new world and its a wonder to behold. The action is pulsating and fierce with the final act delivering a feast for the senses. 

With a story and character arcs that will grip you from the opening frame, Avatar: Fire and Ash is the best Avatar film yet.

★★★★