Stephen Lang spoke with Dexerto about the next installment in the Avatar franchise. He described the sequel as darker and more intimate than its predecessors.
Lang highlighted that the story centers on grief, loss, and family ties. The narrative raises the stakes for all characters involved, driven by the tragic death of Neteyam, the eldest son of Jake and Neytiri.
"Neteyam’s loss will shape the actions of the Na’vi and the humans alike."
The actor noted this event deeply influences the plot and the decisions made by characters from both sides.
Lang described the film as both “stunningly beautiful and realized” yet filled with sorrow. He believes that the grief element adds universal resonance and fuels the story’s tension and difficult choices.
"Grief creates tension and motivates characters to make hard choices."
He praised James Cameron’s ability to build a fresh, living world while allowing the audience to feel the burden of loss alongside the characters.
Filming for Avatar: Fire and Ash is complete, though Lang explained they never feel entirely finished with the process.
"I have wrapped shooting, but we never consider ourselves truly finished. There is always another door that we get ushered through."
Lang also mentioned his role in the upcoming film Sisu: Road to Revenge, which is set for a November 2025 release. Avatar: Fire and Ash is scheduled to premiere globally on December 19, 2025.
Author's summary: Stephen Lang reveals that grief and loss drive the emotional core of Avatar: Fire and Ash, promising a visually stunning film with deep personal stakes.