James Cameron is currently in discussions with Disney to develop an ambitious “James Cameron Avatar animated anthology” series or feature that would expand the universe of Pandora through animation. This project, inspired by the format of The Animatrix, aims to explore new stories within the world of Avatar, complementing the live-action films that continue with Avatar: Fire & Ash releasing this December and production underway on Avatar 4.
Details on the Proposed Animated Anthology Project
During a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Cameron shared his vision for an animated anthology series set in the Avatar universe. He described the project as a collection of unexpected stories that delve deeper into the world and its characters, possibly spanning a theatrical feature, streaming content, or both. Cameron emphasized that the series would offer rich background stories and additional perspectives beyond what has been shown in the films.
I said, ‘Look, I want to do an animated anthology series that’s essentially in the world, but stories that you wouldn’t have expected from that world,’
Cameron stated.
There might even be an animated feature in there, it might be a feature for streaming, or a theatrical feature.
He cited The Animatrix as an example for the type of storytelling he envisions, noting its success in expanding The Matrix universe with various short films that explored side stories and background lore.
A good early example is ‘The Animatrix,’ where they went afield in ‘The Matrix’ world,
Cameron explained.
These are all great examples for how we can add texture and baroque detail to the world of Avatar.
The potential animated anthology could reveal new details such as the origins of the first expedition to Pandora and untold stories happening off-screen in the live-action saga. Cameron highlighted the flexibility to explore any corner of the Avatar world that intrigues the creators.
backstory on characters and tangential stuff that happened off-camera within the movies. Who first landed on Pandora? The first expedition. You could go anywhere you want.
What Inspired Cameron’s Animated Approach and Project Status
The Animatrix, which emerged around the time of the original Matrix sequels, featured segments produced by various Japanese anime studios, such as MadHouse’s notable Program, and showcased different styles and stories from creators. This model may guide Cameron’s approach, with the possibility of recruiting boutique filmmakers and animators specializing in animation to bring diverse voices and visions into the anthology.
Cameron acknowledged that the project is still in its infancy, with idea development and recruiting of talent ongoing.
We haven’t done much with that yet,
Cameron admitted.
We’re still gathering our stories and that sort of thing, and I’ve got to find the boutique filmmakers, the animators, that want to do it.
James Cameron’s Broader Creative Ventures
Beyond Avatar, Cameron is developing other notable projects, including a World War II drama set in Japan titled Ghosts of Hiroshima and a fantasy action film called The Devils. Recently, singer Billie Eilish announced a collaboration with Cameron on a 3D concert project that utilizes footage from her performances in Manchester, England. This reveals Cameron’s broad range of interests across different media and genres.
Potential Collaborators and Industry Context
Cameron has a history of involvement with innovative animation and anthology projects, previously coming close to directing a segment for the revival of Heavy Metal, co-led by Tim Miller and David Fincher. It is possible that he will reach out to experienced directors who contributed to acclaimed projects like Netflix’s Love, Death & Robots to help realize this new animated series.
Directors such as Robert Rodriguez, who directed Cameron’s Battle Angel: Alita and remains a potential collaborator for its sequel, may also join the effort. This multi-director approach echoes the style of previous successful anthologies, offering varied creative perspectives.
Franchise Expansion Beyond Film
The move to animation aligns with Avatar’s growing presence across multiple platforms, including a themed area at Disney Parks and several video game adaptations. The franchise’s broad cultural footprint supports this new animated expansion as a way to deepen audience engagement with Pandora’s lore.
Avatar: Fire & Ash will debut in theaters on December 19, marking the next chapter in Cameron’s ongoing epic saga.
