Edie Falco, star of “Avatar: The Way of Water,” recently disclosed that she faced criticism after mistakenly believing the sequel had not performed well in theaters. Helmed by James Cameron, this film continues the narrative of the Sully family as they combat returning human threats on Pandora, following the 2009 blockbuster “Avatar.” Falco, who portrays the antagonist General Ardmore, attracted attention in December 2022, even before the film’s release, for comments made on “The View,” where she inaccurately assumed the movie had already been released and had flopped at the box office.
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In a recent discussion on “The Jess Cagle Show” (via Entertainment Weekly), Falco recounted the backlash from her “The View” remarks. She revealed that even James Cameron was not pleased:
“I heard directly from someone who was with him when he learned what I had said, and it did not sit well. I faced a lot of criticism for that.”
Falco expanded on her comments from “The View,” humorously admitting, “I’m just clueless. I never know what’s happening in my own life.” She joked about her obliviousness regarding the projects she participates in, especially one as monumental as “Avatar,” intending her remarks to be self-deprecating. However, she explained, “it wasn’t perceived that way,” leading to “numerous calls from very important people.”
Regarding “Avatar: The Way of Water,” specifically, she had filmed her scenes four years prior to the film’s release and had since shifted her focus elsewhere:
“I complete these projects, bid farewell to everyone, and move on. I have no clue what happens after I’m done.”
Implications of “Avatar: The Way of Water’s” Success for the Franchise
James Cameron’s Sequel Plans Affirmed
“Avatar: The Way of Water” carried an air of uncertainty in the years preceding its debut. While the original “Avatar” remains the highest-grossing film historically, it was unclear whether audiences would maintain interest in revisiting that narrative and universe after 13 years. Additionally, “Avatar: The Way of Water” was a costly and ambitious undertaking, intended as the first in a series of four sequels, thus it faced immense pressure to succeed.
The film boasted an estimated budget exceeding $400 million, some of which covered material for subsequent sequels. Ultimately, it amassed $2.32 billion globally.
James Cameron Has A Ridiculous 29-Year, $2 Billion Box Office Streak - But Will Avatar 3 Kill It?
Concerns about “Avatar: The Way of Water” proved unfounded, with the sequel now ranking as the third highest-grossing film ever. This success reinforced Cameron’s sequel plans. The forthcoming third chapter, officially named “Avatar: Fire & Ash,” is slated for a 2025 release, with likely increased confidence in its potential success. Falco, seemingly more attentive to “Avatar: Fire & Ash’s” release and box office performance, will reprise her role as Ardmore.
Our Perspective on Edie Falco’s Comments Regarding “Avatar: The Way of Water”
Why They Aren’t Shocking
It’s crucial to note that, for many actors, the films they feature in constitute merely jobs. An actor’s involvement in a movie like “Avatar,” “Star Wars,” or the MCU doesn’t necessarily imply deep investment in the franchise beyond their contractual obligations. This is apparent with Falco, who wasn’t closely monitoring “Avatar: The Way of Water’s” release or reception.
Although Falco intended no harm with her initial 2022 comments, it’s unsurprising that those involved in the project were displeased by one of its stars presuming it had failed. As Falco is set to appear in “Avatar: Fire & Ash” and potentially the fourth and fifth installments, she will likely engage in more promotional activities in the coming years. However, audiences shouldn’t expect further missteps.
Source: The Jess Cagle Show (via Entertainment Weekly)
Avatar: The Way of Water
- Action
- Adventure
- Fantasy
- Sci-Fi
Ten years after the events of Avatar (2009), Avatar: The Way of Water follows Jake Sully (Sam Worthington, Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and their new family as they brave the world of Pandora and the struggles they endure to protect themselves and their people. Director James Cameron used The Way of Water to explore the oceans of Pandora and set the stage for the subsequent three sequels. In addition to Worthington and Saldana, Avatar: The Way of the Water sees the return of Sigourney Weaver, this time playing a character named Kiri, and Stephen Lang’s villainous Quaritch.
