Since its official release, Avatar: The Way of Water has become a global sensation, poised to be James Cameron’s next $2 billion blockbuster. Fans are excited about the introduction of a new villain, Varang of the Fire Tribe, played by Oona Chaplin. Recently, behind-the-scenes footage of her transformation into Varang has been setting social media on fire.
In a viral TikTok video, Oona Chaplin, who portrays Varang, performs original movements she created herself. From graceful dances with weapons to leading the Fire Tribe, her powerful and ethereal presence gave viewers chills, showcasing a completely different energy from Zoe Saldana’s Neytiri.
With just one video, Oona Chaplin has amassed over 11 million views, not counting similar fan clips. Thanks to her creative gestures and movements, Chaplin has made the Avatar 3 villain a standout element ahead of the film’s global release.
During casting, director James Cameron chose Oona Chaplin over three other major actresses whose names remain under wraps. In an interview, Cameron revealed he was captivated by Chaplin’s performance in Game of Thrones, where she displayed a mix of seductive sensuality and fierce intensity. These qualities perfectly fit the character of Varang from the Mangkwan tribe.
Born in 1986, Oona Chaplin comes from a legendary artistic family spanning three generations. Her grandfather was the iconic comedy king Charlie Chaplin, her mother is an actress, and her father a veteran cinematographer. This background led her to spend her childhood traveling across England, Spain, and Switzerland. From a young age, she mastered various dance styles including ballet, flamenco, and salsa, which helped shape her portrayal of Varang.
Oona Chaplin began acting in 2008 but only found widespread recognition four years later. In Game of Thrones, she played Talisa Maegyr, the beloved partner of Robb Stark who tragically dies in the shocking Red Wedding. Her beauty sparked much discussion and regret that her character was cut short. After that role, she remained active in TV and film but had yet to break through fully. When James Cameron offered her the role, Chaplin felt the opportunity she had been waiting for had finally arrived, crafting a memorable villain in Avatar: The Way of Water.
Avatar: The Way of Water is now showing in theaters nationwide.