Avatar: The Way of Water Granted Extension to Its Theatrical Run in China, as James Cameron Celebrates the Film’s Success

Avatar: The Way of Water continues to create history, as the biggest movie of 2022. After reaching the top spot in the yearly box office rankings, the film continues to break barriers during its theatrical run.

According to Variety, the film is receiving an additional 30-day theatrical run in China. Regulators in Asian country usually grants a 30-day run for Hollywood films. However, extensions like the one the Avatar sequel receive is usually granted if it is considered beneficial for Chinese film investors, producers or distributors.

Along with The Way of Water, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish has also been granted to have an extended run in Chinese theatres, and both films will operate through the Chinese New Year holidays, which arrives later this month.

James Cameron talks about the importance of Avatar: The Way of Water’s success for the film industry

At the 2023 Golden Globe Awards, Avatar: The Way of Water director James Cameron celebrated his film’s epic run at the theatres, which has propped the long-awaited sequel to the top of the box office earnings in 2022.

During a chat with Variety, Cameron said, “We’re going back to theaters around the world. They’re even going back to theatres in China where they’re having this big COVID surge.”

“We’re saying as a society, ‘We need this! We need to go to theaters,” further shared Cameron. “Enough with the streaming already! I’m tired of sitting on my ass.”

And with the theatrical experience that Avatar: The Way of Water, this film is definitely not meant to be viewed on streaming platforms.