Avatar 3’s ‘Fire and Ash’ Generates $12 Million in Preview Sales

James Cameron’s highly anticipated film, “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” marks the return to Pandora with impressive box office performance. The third installment in the Avatar series generated $12 million in domestic preview sales.

Box Office Performance

In international markets, “Fire and Ash” has already secured $43.1 million from 43 territories. Industry analysts forecast that this upcoming blockbuster could dominate the pre-Christmas box office with projections of $90 million to $105 million for its opening weekend.

Global Expectations

Attaining success similar to its predecessors is a major goal. “Fire and Ash” is expected to pull in an additional $250 million to $275 million internationally. This would lead to a global launch estimate of approximately $340 million to $365 million.

Historical Context

Previous “Avatar” films have demonstrated remarkable staying power during holiday seasons. The original “Avatar” premiered with $77 million domestically, holding the No. 1 box office position for seven weeks, ultimately earning $760 million in North America and reaching $2.92 billion globally.

The sequel, “Avatar: The Way of Water,” opened with $134 million domestically. It amassed $688 million in North America and $2.3 billion worldwide, currently ranking as the third highest-grossing film of all time. For “Fire and Ash” to join these ranks, sustained box office performance and premium screening formats like IMAX and 3D will be crucial.

Key Characters and Plot

The beloved characters return in “Fire and Ash.” Jake Sully, played by Sam Worthington, and Neytiri, portrayed by Zoe Saldaña, are back with their Na’vi family. After their journey with the Metkayina clan in “The Way of Water,” they now confront the Mangkwan tribe, who pose a significant threat from their volcanic homeland.

Other Releases in Competition

Alongside “Fire and Ash,” other notable films are entering the box office race. Lionsgate’s adaptation of the novel “The Housemaid,” featuring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, is projected to open with $20 million to $25 million after a $2.2 million preview. Meanwhile, Angel Studios is releasing the animated film “David,” focused on the story of David and Goliath, which is anticipated to have a similar opening.

Additionally, Paramount’s animated feature, “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants,” is estimated to earn between $15 million to $20 million and has already pulled in $1.4 million in previews.