James Cameron’s Avatar series is unlike most big movie franchises. While others are based on books—like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or Game of Thrones—Avatar is building its world from scratch. That means no one knows what’s coming next, and every movie is a fresh surprise.
In Avatar: The Way of Water, we were introduced to the ocean-dwelling Metkayina clan. Now, Avatar 3: Fire and Ash will take us to the skies and into the world of the Wind Traders. These mysterious new Na’vi are seen flying in jellyfish-like airships in the newly released teaser.
Although we don’t see him in the trailer, David Thewlis—best known for playing Professor Lupin in Harry Potter—will play Peylak, the leader of the Wind Traders. Director James Cameron confirmed in Empire Magazine that Thewlis will be a key part of the story in Avatar 3, 4, and 5. “He’s playing a long game,” Cameron says, much like Ronal and Tonowari (played by Kate Winslet and Cliff Curtis) in the last film.
So, who are the Wind Traders? They are a unique kind of Na’vi. Unlike other clans who stay connected to one place, the Wind Traders travel the skies and don’t belong to any one land. Cameron explained, “They’re still 100% Na’vi, but they’re not tied to one home like most native cultures.”
Their true intentions remain a mystery. Are they friends or foes? We’ll have to wait until the movie releases to find out.
Fire and Ash also introduces another new group—the Ash People. The trailer shows them as fierce and unfriendly, and it seems they’ll bring big trouble for Jake Sully’s family, who are still grieving the loss of Neteyam. This movie will be a major turning point as the younger generation steps up.
Returning cast members include:
Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Britain Dalton, Jack Champion, Bailey Bass, Kate Winslet, Joel David Moore, CCH Pounder, Giovanni Ribisi, Dileep Rao, Matt Gerald, and Duane Evans Jr.
New cast: Oona Chaplin and David Thewlis.
Avatar: Fire and Ash flies into theaters on December 19, 2025. Watch the new trailer now and stay tuned for more updates!