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Oona Chaplin reveals her character in Avatar

Chaplin discusses her transformative role as Varang in Avatar: Fire And Ash.

July 28, 2025 at 05:00 PM

Oona Chaplin shares insights into her character Varang in Avatar: Fire And Ash.

Varang emerges as a complex antagonist in Avatar

Oona Chaplin discusses her role as Varang, the leader of the Mangkwan clan in Avatar: Fire And Ash. Unlike the other Na’vi clans, the Mangkwan have faced significant hardships. Their leader, Varang, has led her people towards a path of defiance against Eywa, the spiritual essence of Pandora, after a natural disaster left them in despair. Chaplin describes Varang as a complex character who, while appearing villainous, is seen as the hero to her people. The preparation for this role involved deep emotional immersion and a unique playlist featuring throat singing and Slipknot, reflecting the dark tones of Varang's journey.

Key Takeaways

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Varang represents a departure from traditional Na’vi heroes.

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The Mangkwan clan undergoes significant trauma that shapes their identity.

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Varang’s leadership style is motivated by survival rather than spirituality.

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Chaplin's preparation included exploring dark themes and music.

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The duality of Varang as both villain and hero emphasizes character complexity.

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This portrayal prompts audiences to reflect on morality in leadership.

"They got hit by a natural disaster and what Varang did was say, ‘Well, fuck Eywa.’"

Chaplin describes Varang’s rejection of Eywa in a moment of crisis.

"It’s easy to fall into the villain mentality, but actually she’s the hero of her people."

Chaplin emphasizes Varang's complexity as a leader.

Chaplin's portrayal of Varang adds depth to the Avatar storyline by presenting a nuanced antagonist. This character challenges the traditional concept of good and evil within the Na’vi culture. The Mangkwan's struggles highlight themes of trauma and survival, drawing attention to the complexity of leadership during crises. As viewers explore Varang's motivations, they may grapple with moral questions about sacrifice and power. Chaplin’s transformation into Varang demonstrates the emotional weight actors often bear in such roles, indicating how art can reflect real-world conflicts and complexities.