A spectacular fire sculpture inspired by the *Avatar* movie series illuminated the Thames in London today, captivating onlookers with its grandeur. Standing at an impressive 11 metres tall—equivalent to a four-storey building—the artwork weighs over three tonnes and features the iconic banshee emblem. With a wingspan of five metres, the sculpture prominently displays the franchise’s signature flaming ‘A’ symbol, heralding the arrival of *Avatar: Fire and Ash*, the third installment in the celebrated series.
The blazing display is part of the promotional activities leading up to the film’s UK premiere. Stars including Sigourney Weaver, Oona Chaplin, and Stephen Lang are scheduled to attend the event, alongside notable figures such as costume designer Deborah Scott and composer Simon Franglen. The sculpture, which cost over £1 million to create, was constructed by a dedicated team of more than 20 professionals over six weeks, utilizing a kilometre of steel piping, 60 flame bars, and 100 hoses to maintain its fiery display.
James Cameron Celebrates the Spirit of the Franchise
The visionary behind the *Avatar* series, James Cameron, expressed his excitement for the project, stating, “London holds a special place in my heart. To celebrate the upcoming release of the next instalment, what better way than to be on the River Thames, under the iconic Tower Bridge, combining the elements of fire and water that are the lifeblood of the *Avatar* films.” The film is set to hit cinemas on December 19, 2023, and Cameron added, “We can’t wait for you to journey back to Pandora with us.”
Earlier in the day, the sculpture made a dramatic passage through Tower Bridge aboard the barge *The Remus*, which measures 32 metres in length. For 15 minutes, the artwork dazzled early-morning spectators along the river, showcasing the fiery essence that resonates with the film’s narrative. This latest installment delves into the darker aspects of Pandora, introducing audiences to the Ash People, led by the fierce Verang, portrayed by Oona Chaplin.
A Star-Studded Event on the South Bank
The fiery display will be reignited on London’s South Bank this evening, hosted by Radio 1 DJ Melvin Odoom. Following the show, the UK premiere will take place, where the cast will walk the red carpet for the film’s European debut. This London event follows the world premiere in Los Angeles and the European premiere in Paris, underscoring the global anticipation surrounding *Avatar: Fire and Ash*.
As the flames flicker against the backdrop of the Thames, the spectacle not only highlights the artistry involved in the sculpture’s creation but also celebrates the enduring legacy of the *Avatar* franchise. With its combination of visual artistry and cinematic excitement, this event marks a significant moment in the lead-up to one of the year’s most anticipated films.
