LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA January 17, 2026 – In a rare glimpse behind the scenes of one of Hollywood’s most ambitious franchises, director James Cameron and composer Simon Franglen hosted an intimate 90-minute celebration concert and music masterclass last week, focusing on the evolving soundscape of the Avatar series. Franglen shared a captivating clip from the event on X (formerly Twitter), sparking enthusiasm among fans eager for more details on upcoming installments.
The event, described by Franglen as a “small celebration,” featured live orchestral performances synchronized with footage from the Avatar films. The shared video segment highlights a discussion between Cameron and Franglen on the musical background for a key scene involving Varang and Colonel Miles Quaritch, playfully dubbed “The Power Couple From Hell” by the duo. Varang, portrayed by Oona Chaplin, is set to be a central antagonist in Avatar: Fire and Ash (the third film in the series), leading the fiery Ash People clan. Quaritch, the relentless human-turned-Na’vi villain played by Stephen Lang, continues his arc from Avatar: The Way of Water.
In the clip, an ensemble of musicians—including strings, winds, and percussion—performs evocative cues against a backdrop of projected Avatar imagery, evoking the epic, otherworldly tones that have become synonymous with Pandora. The setting appears to be a cozy, dimly lit venue with an audience enjoying dinner and drinks, blending the formality of a concert with the casual vibe of a masterclass. Cameron and Franglen, seated among the performers, engage in animated conversation, offering anecdotes on composing for the franchise’s unique blend of action, emotion, and cultural depth.
Franglen, who stepped in as lead composer for Avatar: The Way of Water following the passing of original composer James Horner in 2015, has been instrumental in expanding the series’ musical palette. His work incorporates indigenous instruments, choral elements, and electronic layers to mirror the Na’vi’s connection to nature and the escalating conflicts with human invaders. Cameron, known for his hands-on approach to every aspect of production, emphasized the role of music in immersing audiences in Pandora’s world during their talk.
The post has quickly garnered attention, with over 67 likes and multiple replies from fans pleading for additional clips. One user exclaimed, “THERE IS! (Interest),” while another simply begged, “more!!! plz!!!” Franglen teased the possibility of sharing more if interest continues, hinting at further revelations about the scores for Avatar 4 and Avatar 5, which are already in various stages of production.
This masterclass comes amid heightened anticipation for Avatar: Fire and Ash, slated for release in December 2025. The film promises to explore new biomes and clans on Pandora, with music playing a pivotal role in differentiating the Ash People’s aggressive, volcanic culture from the more harmonious Omatikaya and Metkayina.
Fans can view the clip on Franglen’s X account, where he continues to curate playlists and share updates on his compositions. As the Avatar saga expands, events like this underscore the collaborative magic behind its enduring appeal. For more on the Avatar franchise, stay tuned for official announcements from Lightstorm Entertainment.
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