Courtenay Place buzzed with energy last night as crowds gathered for the Australasian premiere of “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” The event attracted notable personalities from the film industry, including stars like Sam Worthington, Cliff Curtis, Jack Champion, and Duane Evans Jr. The iconic Embassy Theatre served as a fitting backdrop for the red carpet event, a beloved venue for film premieres in the area.
Director James Cameron, who recently became a New Zealand citizen, expressed his joy at the significant turnout and the evident civic pride supporting the local film industry. He emphasized the importance of cultivating homegrown talent, stating, “We only have crews here because of the Aotearoa local filmmakers.” Nevertheless, Cameron highlighted ongoing challenges within the industry, particularly the need for enhanced training programs and improvements to the government’s rebate scheme for filmmakers, which he believes require further attention despite previous expansions.
The production of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” spanned an impressive three years, employing a peak crew of 1,600 people. Members of the visual effects team shared insights into the film’s extraordinary scale. Senior VFX supervisor Eric Saindon revealed that if rendering the entire movie was done using a single processor, it would take an inconceivable 145,000 years. Meanwhile, fellow VFX supervisor Joe Letteri praised Cameron’s innovative spirit, which fosters a creative environment that pushes the limits of filmmaking.
Wellington’s local film community is an integral part of its cultural identity. Daniel Barrett, a senior animation supervisor, expressed gratitude for the city’s support, saying, “We talk about the support that filmmakers get coming to this country, but Wellington has done so well over the years.”
The community’s enthusiasm for the premiere was palpable, with crowds starting to gather as early as midday. Worthington, the Australian actor, humorously noted the vibrant atmosphere and the audience’s engagement with the event. Jack Champion, a 21-year-old local who grew up in Wellington, happily reminisced about his connections to the city.
As the evening unfolded, cast members, crew, and VIPs entered the Embassy Theatre for the screening, filling the air with excitement ahead of the film’s official release on Thursday, December 18. This premiere not only celebrates the latest addition to the iconic “Avatar” series but also highlights the success of New Zealand’s flourishing film industry, illuminating the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure its continued growth for the future.