The James Cameron movies have always had a unique hold on their audiences, and the Avatar is one glaring example of this phenomenon. The film’s incredible popularity and the deep affection it has garnered from fans all over the world have led it to shatter its own records in ways that are truly remarkable.
The impact of the first Avatar film, released in 2009, was so intense that it was reported a Taiwanese man with a history of high blood pressure tragically suffered a stroke and passed away days after watching the film. Here’s what happened.
How James Cameron’s Avatar Tragically Led to a Fan’s Death
The Avatar stands as one of the most monumental in film history, maintaining its immense popularity since its debut. The 2009 film shattered records and captivated audiences to an extraordinary degree, a phenomenon so intense that it had even dramatic consequences.
In one notable incident, a 42-year-old Taiwanese man with pre-existing high blood pressure, tragically succumbed to a stroke while watching the film in 2010. According to Agence France Presse (via CBS), he began to feel unwell during the movie and was rushed to the hospital. By the time he arrived, he was unconscious and, despite efforts, he died 11 days later. Dr. Peng Chin-chih attributed the man’s death to the overwhelming excitement and emotional impact of the film. He said,
It’s likely that the over-excitement from watching the movie triggered his symptoms
The excitement surrounding the film remains alive and well. With the release of Avatar: The Way of Water, the latest addition to what will eventually become an expansive series in the years to come, it’s clear that this is just the beginning of the Avatar universe.
The Immense Impact Avatar Has Had on the Film Industry
James Cameron‘s 2009 sci-fi epic, Avatar, redefined cinematic benchmarks in every shape, way, and form. Believe it or not, the masterpiece still holds the title of the highest-grossing film of all time. It was the first film to surpass $2 billion at the box office, ultimately concluding its initial run with an astounding $2.749 billion in revenue.
It even surpassed records previously set by James Cameron’s own Titanic and remains iconic to this day. Even when temporarily ousted by Avengers: Endgame, which grossed $2.797 billion in 2019, a re-release put Avatar back to the top, solidifying its status as a box office behemoth with a lifetime gross of $2.923 billion.
Beyond its financial success, Avatar ignited a merchandising frenzy. From action figures to video games, the film’s influence extended far beyond the cinema. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable.
The film’s hold on the people was reaffirmed with the release of Avatar: The Way of Water, which swiftly climbed the box office ranks with $2.054 billion. This sequel not only demonstrated the continued fascination with Pandora but also cemented James Cameron’s position as a visionary in the industry.
Avatar is available to stream on Disney+
