Avatar: The Way of Water has already sparked some concerns amongst moviegoers through its introduction of a new underwater world shown in the official trailer, but a creature tease eases those concerns. Director James Cameron has previously given information regarding how the film was shot, stating that Avatar 2 used underwater motion-capture technology to ensure it had the same gripping visuals as its predecessor. However, similar to Avatar, there lies the concern as to whether or not this new technology will result in a poor storyline, with its visual effects taking the forefront.
Upon its release in 2009, Avatar broke box office records by introducing moviegoers to highly innovative filmmaking through its usage of motion-capture technology. As mentioned previously, Avatar: The Way of Water will also feature motion-capture technology; however, James Cameron created it specifically to be able to shoot underwater sequences. Through this, audiences can expect to see new additions in the already vibrant world of Pandora, with various new aquatic species expected to be featured in the film. One of the creatures confirmed to have its onscreen debut is the ilu, which is comparable to the whales on Earth in its features and intelligence. Producer Jon Landau explained that the ilu is the "water equivalent to the direhorse" seen in the first Avatar and that they are used by the film's water tribe when they go into combat. Landau also went into detail regarding the ilu's temperaments, as well as the fact that they can travel up to 60 mph.
While moviegoers are concerned about Avatar: The Way of Water's underwater technology overshadowing the film, the evident attention to detail placed on the ilu proves that it won't be for nothing. Instead, it gives another layer of vibrancy to the pre-existing world of Pandora, developing its ecosystems and the Na'vi society that lives there. The debate surrounding the usage of CGI in films is seemingly neverending, but regardless of preference, there is no denying the detail put into the world of Pandora. In fact, Pandora being almost entirely CGI shows how revolutionary it is, as combining the extensive flora and fauna that exists on Pandora with the Na'vi language and culture wholly created from scratch by James Cameron shows that it is entirely unlike any other existing film or franchise.
However, while it is clear that the technology used in both Avatar films serves the purpose of creating a world unlike any other, its narrative still has a problem. For example, the plot of the first Avatar film is not entirely memorable ten years on, with its striking visuals being the most iconic part. Unfortunately, this erases the crucial topics that director James Cameron wanted to explore through the world of Pandora, tackling issues that affect society on Earth today, such as colonialism and the destruction of natural habitats. Therefore, audiences are less likely to view the world of Pandora as a metaphor for planet Earth and more as a colorful form of escapism, reducing the impact that the film attempts to convey through its storyline. Avatar: The Way of Water has the perfect opportunity to explore these topics more now that the world of Pandora has already been established.
Currently, there is no knowing if James Cameron's groundbreaking underwater technology will affect the film's storyline. Still, it is clear that audiences can expect to be amazed by the film's visuals based on the trailer alone. In the meantime, fans of the franchise can watch Avatar on Disney+ while eagerly anticipating the arrival of Avatar: The Way of Water in theatres later this year.