Courtesy of 20th Century Studios
Zoe Saldaña is eager for audiences to gain a deeper appreciation of the artistry involved in motion capture performances, especially as showcased in James Cameron’s *Avatar* films.
In a recent interview with Alicia Keys for Beyond Noise, Saldaña revealed that the Oscar-winning director is contemplating a documentary about the making of *Avatar*. “Finally giving us a chance to explain, in a meticulous way, why performance capture is the most empowering form of acting,” she expressed.
Saldaña, who portrays Neytiri in both the original 2009 film and the sequel *Avatar: The Way of Water*, emphasized the significance of providing context for the work involved in motion capture. She stated, “It gives us the credit, the ability to own 100 percent of our performance on screen.”
“With animation, you might go into the studio for [a few] sessions; that’s as much as they’ll need you for the whole movie. You go into a studio, however you’re dressed, and you lend your voice, right?” She elaborated that performance capture relies on the full-body engagement of actors, which directly influences the final product.
Through her continued advocacy, Saldaña is adamant about the recognition of motion capture as a legitimate form of acting. She has previously criticized the Academy Awards for overlooking these performances. While visual effects are celebrated, the actors who embody characters via CGI often remain unrecognized in major acting categories.
Saldaña remarked, “It takes an average of seven years between each *Avatar* film. From archery, martial arts, to scuba diving, we train rigorously. Everything you see our characters do stems from our efforts and the extraordinary work of talented stunt performers. The technology Jim creates empowers the actors to embrace total ownership of their performance. It’s beautiful.”
As the *Avatar* franchise has garnered significant acclaim, including three Academy Awards for categories such as best cinematography and best visual effects, the upcoming installment *Avatar: Fire and Ash* is set to release in theaters on December 19, 2025. Saldaña reprises her role as Neytiri, continuing her dedication to expanding the universe crafted by Cameron.
In conclusion, Zoe Saldaña’s enthusiasm for James Cameron’s potential documentary highlights the intricate artistry behind motion capture acting and reinforces the need for greater recognition within the industry.
Based on reporting by Hollywood Reporter. Read the full story at Hollywood Reporter.