Avatar: Fire and Ash’s music has prompted mixed reactions, with some listeners and critics embracing new songs like Miley Cyrus’s “Dream As One” while others report the soundtrack does not fully resonate with fans of the franchise or expectations for an Avatar score[2][3].
Context and key points
– The film’s soundtrack includes original songs and a score by Simon Franglen, and the lead single “Dream As One” by Miley Cyrus was released ahead of the film[3][2].
– Early press and promotional coverage emphasize that the song ties into the movie’s themes and visuals, with the video intercutting Cyrus with film footage and lyrics that echo the Na’vi’s collective spirit[2].
– Critical and audience reactions to the movie overall have leaned positive for visuals and spectacle, but some reviewers call out the film’s length and emotional demands, which can affect how ancillary elements like music are received[4].
– Box office and industry coverage frame Avatar: Fire and Ash as a major test for 2025’s theatrical climate; whether the soundtrack “resonates” culturally may be tied to the film’s broader commercial and critical fortunes rather than the music alone[1].
Why some listeners feel the music does not resonate
– Expectation gap: Avatar has an established musical identity—prior scores set a tone many associate with the franchise—so new pop-oriented originals can feel jarring to longtime fans[3].
– Context dependence: Songs that lean heavily on pop production or are used as promotional singles may connect more with mainstream radio listeners than with viewers expecting diegetic or thematic scoring tied to the onscreen world[2].
– Emotional framing: Critics noting the film’s long runtime and emotional intensity suggest soundtrack impact is partly a function of how music integrates with pacing and narrative; if the movie itself feels exhausting, musical cues may land less effectively[4].
Why others find the music successful
– The single “Dream As One” was crafted to reflect core themes and was promoted alongside striking visuals that mirror film motifs, which can strengthen emotional ties for many listeners[2].
– Professional composition: The official score’s composer and the production team were chosen to continue the franchise’s sonic ambitions, and multiple original pieces (including a film-closed song by a cast member) indicate care in musical curation[3].
– Awards attention: Early awards-season mentions for the film’s original songs suggest industry recognition that can validate the music for some audiences[2][3].
How to evaluate whether the music resonates
– Listen in both contexts: Compare reactions when hearing songs as standalone tracks versus in the context of the film, because placement and scene association significantly change impact[2][3].
– Track engagement metrics: Streaming numbers, chart positions, and social media conversation can show broader cultural resonance beyond initial reviews[1][2].
– Look at critical and fan discourse over time: Immediate responses to big franchise releases can be split; longitudinal measures—re-listens, playlist inclusion, and awards recognition—help indicate lasting resonance[1][2][3].
Practical suggestions for fans and curious listeners
– Watch the music video for “Dream As One” to see how the song was positioned with film imagery[2].
– Sample the soundtrack both as an album and while watching the film to judge whether integration with visuals changes your perception[3].
– Read a range of early critical reactions to see if music-specific commentary aligns with general appraisal of the film’s tone and pacing[4][1].
Sources
https://screenrant.com/2025-box-office-challenge-avatar-fire-and-ash/
https://los40.us/2025/miley-cyrus-sings-about-courage-in-dream-as-one-music-video-from-avatar-fire-and-ash-full-lyrics-42280.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avatar:_Fire_and_Ash
https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65599666/
https://www.dga.org/events
