Perched at the tip-top of Hollywood’s box office charts – at $2.78 billion, the James Cameron franchise starter is yet to be beaten – Avatar is a name that’s widely known around the film industry, even if it tends to evoke a mixture of groans and adulation.
Truth be told, there are those who believe Cameron’s fantastical sci-fi is the textbook example of an over-achiever, and that Avatar simply rode the wave of 3D surcharges all the way to box office stardom back in 2009. Nevertheless, its historic feat has resulted in the announcement of not one, not two, but four full-blown sequels, beginning with the launch of Avatar 2 in December of 2020. They’re now in “full-tilt” production, according to James Cameron, who attributes the ten-year wait to mapping out the franchise’s overall vision.
Of course, with production underway, now comes the casting news and tonight, Deadline is reporting that the director’s ordered up a bit of a Titanic reunion, as Kate Winslet has boarded the franchise in the role of Ronal.
“Kate and I have been looking for something to do together for 20 years, since our collaboration on Titanic, which was one of the most rewarding of my career,” Cameron said. “I can’t wait to see her bring the character to life.”
Unfortunately, we don’t have any details on who exactly this Ronal is, but given Winslet’s status as an A-list talent, we imagine it’ll be a significant part and one that will stretch across all, or at least, a few of the upcoming sequels. Regardless of how heavily she factors into the story, having her involved can only be a good thing and we’re excited to see what the actress brings to the franchise.
Avatar 2 will get the ball rolling for James Cameron and Co. on December 18th, 2020. It’ll then be followed in quick succession by Avatar 3 (December 17th, 2021), Avatar 4 (December 20th, 2024) and, finally (?), Avatar 5 on December 19th, 2025.
