‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ fans surprised with ‘Game of Thrones’ connection; hail Oona Chaplin’s Varang after playing Queen in the North |
The newly released trailer for James Cameron’s ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ has set the internet ablaze, not just for its breathtaking visuals, but for the explosive debut of Oona Chaplin as the film’s villain – Varang. In a twist fans didn’t see coming, the actress, known for playing Talisa Stark, the “Queen in the North” from ‘Game of Thrones‘, will now tap into her dark side and command a Na’vi rebellion with fire and fury.The clip that introduced the Ash People, had fans of the ‘Avatar’ franchise, hooked to Varang’s character and eager to see back story. Her chilling declaration, “Your goddess has no dominion here,” an open defiance of the planet’s goddess Eywa, set of a wave of excitement among fans who herald this as Chaplin’s “villain era.”Social media lit up with praise for the character with one declaring, “VARANG IS EVERYTHING.” Another said, “First Talisa Stark in GOT and now Varang in Avatar Fire and Ash. Fans of the ‘GOT’ franchise recalled her character’s tragic end in the hit series where Talisa Stark and the baby in her womb were stabbed to death in a brutal and shocking end at the infamous Red Wedding scene, in Season 3. “Oona Chaplin the woman that u are.” Still another added, “I need to know everything about Varang.”Adding to her intrigue, eagle-eyed viewers noted Varang’s metal earrings, a striking violation of Na’vi deep-rooted culture. “She really hates Eywa,” one user wrote.Chaplin’s performance as Varang, with her fire-wielding abilities not only impressed fans, but also director Cameron, who raved about his actress’ performance. Chaplin’s Varang will fight alongside returning antagonist Quaritch (Stephen Lang), and seemingly go to war against protagonists Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and their clans. The returning ensemble cast also includes Sigourney Weaver, Kate Winslet, and David Thewlis.‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’, the third instalment in the box office record-breaking saga, is set to hit theatres on December 19, 2025.
