Courtenay Place was bustling with excitement last night as the Australasian premiere of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” attracted a large crowd. Prominent actors such as Sam Worthington, Cliff Curtis, Jack Champion, and Duane Evans Jr., along with the film’s producers and crew, made their grand entrance on the red carpet leading to the Embassy Theatre, which is notable as a significant venue for film premieres in the region.
Director James Cameron, recently honored with New Zealand citizenship, expressed his delight at the turnout, emphasizing the civic and national pride evident in the local film industry. Cameron remarked on the importance of nurturing local talent, stating, “We only have crews here because of the Aotearoa local filmmakers.” However, he also highlighted some challenges facing the industry, specifically the need for more robust training programs and the desire for the government to revisit and improve the rebate scheme for filmmakers, which he feels remains insufficient despite recent expansions.
With a crew of 1,600 at its peak, the production of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” took an impressive three years to complete. Key members of the VFX team shared insights into the monumental scale of the film, with senior VFX supervisor Eric Saindon revealing that rendering the entire movie would take an extraordinary 145,000 years if done on a single processor. Joe Letteri, another VFX supervisor, emphasized Cameron’s role as an innovator, which fosters a creative atmosphere conducive to pushing the boundaries of filmmaking.
The local film industry is undeniably woven into the fabric of Wellington, as underscored by Daniel Barrett, a senior animation supervisor who expressed his gratitude for the opportunities the city provides. He noted, “We talk about the support that filmmakers get coming to this country, but Wellington has done so well over the years.”
Crowds began gathering for the premiere as early as midday, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm. Australian actor Worthington humorously remarked on the vibrant atmosphere, noting the crowd’s connection to the event, while also reflecting on the local talent that had contributed to the film. The 21-year-old Jack Champion, who grew up in Wellington, also shared his fond memories and connections to the city.
By the evening, as cast, crew, and VIPs filtered into the Embassy Theatre for the screening, excitement filled the air for the film’s official release, set for Thursday, December 18. The premiere not only celebrates the latest installment of the “Avatar” series but also shines a spotlight on New Zealand’s thriving film sector, underscoring the collaborative efforts necessary to bolster the industry for future generations.