'Avatar 2' release date, plot news: James Cameron discusses release window and family aspect of story

Promotional image for James Cameron's "Avatar" 20th Century Fox

Director James Cameron shared brand new details regarding "Avatar 2" and its follow-up sequels, discussing when the movie might finally premiere in theaters and what its plot and themes are. Cameron also discussed how the films will be connected to "Toruk," the stage play set in the world as the films.

According to Variety, Cameron stated that the titular Toruk is a dragon-like creature, but it will not be making an appearance in "Avatar 2" or its sequels. Instead, the stage play is more like an expansion of the franchise, which also includes books and video games, that would further expand the world, characters, and lore. "Toruk" is also set prior to the events of the first film, before humans went to the planet Pandora.

Cameron further reveals that "Avatar 2" to "Avatar 5" will always be about Jake (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and their children. He further explained that the films are a family saga and that it will focus on these characters and their struggles with humans.

The first sequel, "Avatar 2," is slated to be released by Christmas 2018. However, Cameron did state that this is still not set in stone and that the films may be delayed or released early if he and the studios think they are ready.

"We haven't moved that target yet, but we will if we need to," he explained. He then added: "The important thing for me is not when the first one comes out but the cadence of the release pattern. I want them to be released as close together as possible. If it's an annual appointment to show up at Christmas, I want to make sure that we're able to fulfill on that promise."

It is noted that the first sequel was meant to premiere in December 2017, but it has since been pushed back to give room to another big feature film that is scheduled to launch in that time period, "Star Wars Episode VIII."

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