UPDATE: In a stunning box office surge, James Cameron’s latest film, Avatar: Fire and Ash, has surpassed $100 million domestically within just three days of its release. The film has not only crossed the $400 million global mark but has also overtaken two of Denis Villeneuve’s critically acclaimed films, Arrival and Dune, in rapid succession.
This remarkable achievement highlights the film’s strong audience reception, despite mixed critical reviews. With Christmas just around the corner, the movie is projected to hit the $200 million mark domestically by Sunday, December 24, 2023.
Following its release on December 19, 2025, Avatar: Fire and Ash quickly passed the lifetime haul of Arrival ($100 million) and Dune ($111 million), showcasing its dominance in the box office landscape. The film’s success is particularly impressive given its massive reported budget of $400 million, which it has now recouped, although it will likely need to cross the $1 billion threshold for profitability.
The audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, as indicated by its A on CinemaScore and a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes. While critics have given the film a more tepid 66% rating, the potential for strong earnings in the coming weeks remains high.
The film, featuring a star-studded cast, including Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner, is positioned to become a holiday blockbuster. As families flock to theaters this Christmas, the anticipation surrounding Avatar 3 continues to grow.
The success of Avatar: Fire and Ash comes as Denis Villeneuve works on his Dune trilogy, having spent nearly five years on the project. In contrast, Cameron has dedicated two decades to the Avatar franchise, which includes the original film and its sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water, both of which remain at the top of global box office charts.
As Avatar: Fire and Ash continues its impressive trajectory, all eyes will be on its performance over the holiday weekend. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the box office battle unfolds.
