The upcoming film “Avatar: Fire & Ash” is set to introduce a variety of new elements while reinforcing aspects that were favored in its predecessors. Central to this continuation is Pakayan, the tulkun—also known as a space whale—who was introduced in “The Way of Water” as an outcast. Pakayan gained this status after avenging his mother by killing the humans responsible for her death. Throughout the film, he forms a friendship with Jake Sully’s teenage son, Lo’ak, and plays a crucial role in the climax by going on a rampage to save his fellow Tulkun from malicious whalers.
As a franchise known for its appreciation of animals, “Avatar” will expand Pakayan’s role significantly in the sequel. In an interview with Empire Magazine, VFX supervisor Richard Baneham explained that the positive reception to Pakayan, which includes support from Twitter users who have praised him as a remarkable character, motivated the team to further develop his storyline. In the new film, Pakayan will encounter Ta’nok, another outcast, who is set to become his love interest. Baneham described the dynamic between them as “really great,” suggesting that their relationship will be a pivotal element of the story.
The film will also delve deeper into Tulkun society by introducing new characters, such as a Patriarch and Matriarch who lead their community. Baneham mentioned that the Matriarch will be adorned in “full regalia,” with rings and tattoos hinting at a rich history unseen by the audience. For fans eager for more exploration of the underwater world featured in “The Way of Water,” “Avatar: Fire & Ash” promises to deliver when it is released on December 19.