Pop Culture Happy Hour Avatar: Fire And Ash and What’s Making Us Happy
Dec 19, 2025
Join freelance music journalist Rihanna Cruz and pop culture critic Chris Klimek as they dive into James Cameron's latest visual spectacle, 'Avatar: Fire and Ash.' Rihanna shares her passion for the franchise and its stunning visuals, while Chris offers a more reserved take, critiquing pacing and originality. They discuss whether the film's effects will stand the test of time amidst industry advancements. Plus, discover what brings them joy—from heartfelt films to cinematic classics—making for a lively blend of critique and celebration.
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Spectacle Over Script
- Avatar: Fire and Ash prioritizes spectacle and technological ambition over tight plotting or subtle scripts.
- The film's visual craft makes it worth seeing on a big screen despite narrative weaknesses.
A Fan's Repeat Visits
- Rihanna Cruz says she rewatched Pandora repeatedly and loves immersing herself in the world despite narrative flaws.
- She left Fire and Ash satisfied and plans to see it multiple times because she values theatrical experience.
Sequel Feels Like More Of The Same
- Chris Klimek feels the film is more 'more of the same' and doesn't expand the world as much as the gap between the first two films did.
- He still recommends the big-screen experience but finds the payoff less transformative.