The Best Characters In Avatar: The Way Of Water, Ranked

When it comes to James Cameron's luscious 2009 blockbuster, "Avatar," audiences likely fall into one or two camps: they can't wait to rediscover the magic of Pandora or they can't wait to mock it. In the case of this writer, I fall somewhere that's a bit more in the grey zone (or blue, in this case). Sure, the original's "Ferngully-esque" plot (along with the "unobtanium" of it all) is something many viewers (myself included) have discussed ad nauseam. Surprisingly, in the case of its long-awaited sequel, "Avatar: The Way of Water," I found myself falling under the spell of something that was an annoyance in the first installment — the film's characters.

From the returning cast, who mostly have improved since the first film, to the new additions, who add youthful energy to "Avatar's" ever-expanding world, it's evident that each of these characters brings something fascinating to the narrative. Which among this odd sci-fi collective is the most interesting of the bunch? Who should be the focus of the future "Avatar" sequels? And who is the most likely to get fan fiction written about them? This list is here to answer all of those questions and more. So jump onto your favorite ikran or ilu, and let's discover which of the "Way of Water" characters left the most significant impact on the franchise.

With regal energy, the Metkayina clan Olo'eyktan, Tonowari (Cliff Curtis), stands out from the Na'vi crowd. Not only is his design striking, but he evokes the kind of solid presence needed in a Na'vi of his importance. The most remarkable aspect of Tonowari is his ability to remain calm, even in the most stressful of situations. He knows precisely when to exercise his power, allowing him to leave a distinct impression on those who encounter him, which is likely why Jake feels his family will be safe under Tonowari's protection.

Yet, even with all of his positive qualities, Tonowari's personality isn't quite as memorable as his vibrant appearance. Yes, the kindness he extends to the Sully family (despite his apprehension about getting involved in their battles with the Resources Development Administration) is admirable, but that doesn't make up for his lack of narrative development compared to his other family members. Plus, he isn't exactly the greatest of father figures, which is evident by how often his kids get the Sully children involved in some genuinely nerve-wracking shenanigans. Ultimately, Tonowari has a lot of potential, but we need more time with him in future "Avatar" installments to see what he really can do.

When looking at Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri's family, their eldest son, Neteyam (Jamie Flatters), is the apple of their eye. Not only is he the picture-perfect example of a future Na'vi tribe leader, but he wears his love for his Omaticaya clan roots on his sleeve as he honors their traditions and warrior customs. Neteyam is also an upstanding brother who exhibits selflessness in protecting his siblings from harm, regardless of how dangerous the situation may be. Plus, Neteyam is excellent at taking down bullies — a skill that always comes in handy, no matter the sci-fi circumstances.

However, with the script's tremendous foreshadowing and the various near-death experiences in the early battle sequences, it seems apparent that Neteyam is a goner from the start. Is that a bad thing? Not necessarily. Still, when a character comes across more like a glorified plot device rather than a fleshed-out protagonist, the impact of their eventual death can fall through the cracks. While Neteyam leaves an impression on the film's ensemble of Pandora natives, he deserved more time in this franchise than James Cameron allowed.

When push comes to narrative shove, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) isn't the most memorable character. Sure, he has the distinction of being the Toruk Makto and seems to be a great father and husband. Yet, for all of his great qualities, there's not much else to say about him. Is this the fault of the film or Worthington's somewhat lackluster performance? There are arguments to be made for both sides of that coin. Regardless, it's exhausting to root for a hero as cookie-cutter as this human turned Na'vi leader.

Thankfully, Jake's arc gets the push it needs by the film's third act. From his near sacrifice to save his children from his archenemy, Quaritch (Stephen Lang), to his heartfelt battle to stop the RDA, James Cameron doesn't shy away from showcasing the epic lengths Jake will go to protect Pandora. However, what makes Jake interesting by the end of "Avatar: The Way of Water" has more to do with the Shakespearean dynamics he'll likely have with characters like Quaritch and Spider (Jack Champion) further down the "Avatar" road. If the dominos fall as Cameron is setting them up, Jake is in for even more family drama than he bargained for.

With her big eyes and bubbly persona, Tuktirey (aka. "Tuk," played by Trinity Jo-Li Bliss) is one of the cutest additions to the "Avatar" franchise. Not only is she a bright spot in an otherwise intense drama, but she also serves as a symbol of hope within the Sully family. Tuk is a supportive figure who displays loyalty whenever possible. This is especially true when it comes to her deep bond with her older adopted sister, Kiri (Sigourney Weaver). Tuk is also a scene stealer with some of the funniest lines in the movie, including an incredible one-liner about getting caught.

Easily, the best aspect of Tuk is that she isn't annoying. Often in blockbuster sci-fi movies, young children are a burden to the adult cast, especially when it comes to defeating the antagonist. Like most kids in James Cameron's movies, Tuk doesn't fall into that frustrating trope. Sure, the youngest Sully child has moments of complaining and getting into awkward situations (what kiddo doesn't?). Nevertheless, Tuk is a gem that I can't wait to see evolve throughout the series.

Regarding "Avatar's" original cast, Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) ranks among the best of the best. From her skills as a Na'vi warrior to her beautiful soul, she's a character who wears her heart on her sleeve as proudly as her battle armor. Unfortunately, in "The Way of Water," this once mighty character takes a narrative backseat and only seems to shine when the film needs Neytiri to dramatically fulfill her vengeful arc. It's a decision that sours much of the good built up around Neytiri in the first installment — especially considering how important she was to the success of the first "Avatar" film.

Thankfully, James Cameron gives Neytiri some incredible moments that make up for her less-than-stellar character arc in the sequel. This comes into play when Neytiri crosses paths with her archenemy, Quaritch (Stephen Lang), resulting in the kind of melodramatic action that promises to get even more intriguing with future "Avatar" installments. Will the vengeful pair have the final showdown Cameron has been hinting at? It seems more and more likely. Until then, here's hoping that the third Avatar film (and the future installments) not only give Neytiri more to do but allow Saldaña to do all the incredible things fans know she's capable of.

When it comes to Na'vi you don't want to mess with, the Metkayina Tsahìk Ronal (Kate Winslet) is at the top of the list. While she has stunning features that make her appear ethereal, Ronal is a no-nonsense matriarch who puts her community's safety above everything else. Much like Neytiri, Ronal is also incredibly spiritual, which makes her connections to the Tulkun more profound than just a silly relationship with a group of sci-fi whales. Ronal's most essential talents lie within her knowledge of traditional Na'vi medicine and her warrior skills. These aspects make her a trustworthy companion and a great ally in the greater war to come on Pandora. 

So why, with all of these qualities, is Ronal not ranked higher on this list? Well, it's mainly due to her screen time compared to the other characters. Like her husband, Tonowari, she has the potential to be a significant character in the franchise thanks to her fierce attitude toward her enemies. Could her soon-to-be-born child play a substantial role in future "Avatar" movies? That remains to be seen. Either way, it's clear that Ronal isn't just a one-off character in the franchise. Here's hoping we get to see her ride her tsurak into battle once again. 

Like her mother and father, Tsireya (Bailey Bass) evokes a regal quality that perfectly aligns with her royal lineage. As the daughter of the Metkayina clan leaders, she is responsible for upholding her family's legacy of strength and honor. This is something Tsireya excels at, especially in comparison to her brothers, who (with their limited screen presence) are only shown as annoying bullies in the movie. Tsireya's best quality is her compassion for others. This aspect comes out the most in her relationship with Lo'ak when she encourages him not to lose hope despite feeling disconnected from everyone around him.

Of course, there is an argument to be made that Tsireya only serves the purpose of being the beautiful princess archetype in the franchise. Still, knowing James Cameron's track record with depicting female characters, along with the moments in which Tsireya showcases her action skills during the film's third act, proves that this heroine has a bright future. Plus, with the sparks flying between her and Lo'ak, who knows what kind of delicious drama Cameron has in store for them?

There have been many significant whales in the grand scheme of pop culture history. From "Moby Dick" to "Free Willy," each of these stories has unique elements that make cinema a bit more interesting. Payakan, a member of the tulkun species, is as tragic as he is majestic. Having been involved in a horrific encounter with RDA whalers, Payakan knows firsthand what it is like to become an outsider when your community assumes the worst of you. This plays a large part in the majestic tulkun's relationship with Lo'ak, who similarly feels the immense pain of being ostracized by his family based on a misunderstanding.

What makes Payakan rank so highly on the list, aside from the fact that he's the coolest sidekick any alien teenager could ask for, is how he plays into the third act's climatic showdown. From his rage at seeing Lo'ak tied to the RDA Sea Dragon to his fantastic takedown of the cartoonishly evil Mick Scoresby (Brendan Cowell), there's no denying that Payakan's heroic efforts are some of the most rewarding parts of the movie. While we don't know if Payakan will play a role in future "Avatar" stories, here's hoping we get to see this space whale bodyslam a ship again sooner rather than later.

Initially, Lo'ak (played brilliantly by Britain Dalton) seems like a frustratingly familiar character. Not only does he evoke the same angsty energy of other teen protagonists, but when paired with his space whale pal, Payakan, Lo'ak comes across like a sci-fi copy of "Free Willy's" Jesse. Still, when examined through a particular lens, there's something so inherently relatable and engaging about this young Na'vi warrior that you can't help but fall under his spell.

For starters, Lo'ak is a resourceful character who's often sidelined by his older brother and his father. Social and emotional pressure pushes Lo'ak into some of the film's most heartwrenching situations because we see his need to be appreciated by his family. That desire for connection, love, and respect is what makes Lo'ak something special — even when you want to smack some sense into him. When combined with his ever-changing relationship with Jake and his bubbling romance with Tsireya, it's clear that Lo'ak's journey will only get more interesting with each new part of the overarching "Avatar" story.

The only human of interest on this list, Miles "Spider" Socorro (played by Jack Champion), has a story that's one part "Tarzan" and one part Greek tragedy. Raised by the Na'vi after being abandoned on Pandora, Spider develops a deep bond with the Omaticaya clan, making him a fascinating addition to the Sully family. This is especially true of his connection to Jake Sully since Jake was once a human brought into the Na'vi world under similarly surprising circumstances. Yet, the most exciting aspect of Spider isn't that he relates more to aliens than humans. Instead, it all concerns his relationship with the Avatar form of his father, Quaritch.

Not only does Spider and Quaritch's dynamic explore the complexities of what it's like to have a villainous parent, but there's something compelling about watching Spider try to decide which world he belongs in. He has attachments to the Sully family but can't ignore his familial ties to Quaritch. That drive to find a connection is what makes Spider not only relatable but a character you root for. 

In any good blockbuster franchise, one character is destined for magical, unspeakable greatness. And in "Avatar: The Way of Water," that's Kiri (Sigourney Weaver), the Sully family's adopted daughter. Mysteriously born of Doctor Grace Augustine's Avatar body (also played by Weaver), Kiri is deeply connected to Ewya, the spirit of Pandora. As the movie progresses, it becomes clear that her abilities go beyond just hearing Ewya, as Kiri showcases her powerful abilities to connect with and harness the living things around her.

Like iconic characters such as Anakin Skywalker, Kiri doesn't hide her emotions. That's a fascinating aspect that could become dangerous as her story progresses, especially regarding Kiri's innocent romantic interest in Spider. This, along with her loyalty to her family and adorable curiosity, is what makes Kiri one of the most promising characters in the "Avatar" series because, like many of James Cameron's other memorable female protagonists, she doesn't exist to just look beautiful and hide in terror. She's meant to be something impressive.

One of the most frustrating characters (if not the worst of the entire bunch) in the original "Avatar" is the cartoonishly villainous Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang). With his ridiculous manner of speaking and equally cringeworthy actions, he was the poster boy for forgettable sci-fi antagonists. So you can imagine my surprise that this new take on Quaritch completely shifted my perspective. Knowing James Cameron, this could have been his intent all along. But how could a character as one-note as the human Quaritch become so alluring in the sequel? It comes down to the multi-layered evolution his Avatar clone experiences in "Avatar: The Way of Water."

Quaritch is at an emotional fork in the road he has yet to fully acknowledge. He wants to fulfill his purpose of killing Jake Sully, but when he encounters Spider, Quaritch feels drawn to become a better person, resulting in the film's most tragic interactions. These elements, plus the promise that Quaritch's complicated story will progress in future "Avatar" sequels, make him a character worth investing in. When you combine the possibilities of his arc with Lang's underrated talents, Quaritch could become the most narratively rich character in the franchise.