James Cameron, the renowned filmmaker behind blockbusters like Titanic and Avatar, is making headlines for his decision to leave the United States and relocate permanently to New Zealand. This monumental shift is primarily fueled by his frustration and disapproval of Donald Trump’s presidency.
Describing his impending New Zealand citizenship as "imminent," Cameron, who has been living primarily on his 1,000-hectare dairy farm near South Wairarapa since 2012, indicated he sees the move as necessary for his family's future. "It’s horrific. I think it’s horrifying," he remarked, reflecting on the political climate back home and his mounting desire to escape it.
Cameron’s frustrations with Trump are not new; he has publicly criticized the former president’s leadership style and policies, likening the experience to "watching a car crash over and over." He stated, "I see it as a turn away from everything decent," and underscored the importance of values, saying, "America doesn’t stand for anything if it doesn’t stand for what it has historically stood for." This shift, he believes, leaves the nation as "a hollow idea."
Having first moved to the U.S. from Canada during the 1970s to pursue his career, Cameron's life has been shaped by the Hollywood dream. Still, he feels increasingly disconnected from the values he once held dear, and the political chaos surrounding Trump's administration has become unbearable. He noted, "I just don’t want to see [Trump’s] face anymore on the front page of the paper. It’s sickening."
His ties to New Zealand run deep, not only as a landowner but also through his collaboration with Wellington’s Weta Digital on the Avatar films. Cameron expressed gratitude for the contrasting media environment. "I don’t know if I feel any safer here, but I certainly feel like I don’t have to read about it on the front page every single day," he elaborated. He appreciates how local news outlets handle coverage more thoughtfully compared to the relentless U.S. news cycles.
The news of Cameron's relocation has ignited mixed reactions. While many admire his commitment to seeking citizenship and connection to his farm and community, others criticize his decision. Some commentators have gone so far as to declare their intention to no longer support the Avatar franchise—reflecting the polarized views on his political stance and the broader ramifications of Trump’s presidency. One social media user remarked, "If filmmakers focused on storytelling and craft as much as they do on Donald Trump, movies might still be watchable." And another expressed empathy for Cameron’s move, stating, "If I had his money, I’d do the same. This country is a disaster."
Despite the backlash, Cameron remains focused on his vision for the future. He not only intends to create more films based out of New Zealand but is also committed to employing local talent to help develop the country's film industry. “I love working here. I love the people I get to work with here,” he said, signaling his desire to invest not just financially but also socially and creatively.
With Cameron's citizenship process underway, he reflects on what this change means for both his family and his career. It isn't just about relocation—he has expressed the belief people should earn the right to be part of the community they inhabit. Cameron’s imminent transition resonates deeply with current discussions about identity, belonging, and the politics of place. For many artists and citizens disillusioned with the state of affairs, his brave steps might echo hopes for finding new beginnings outside the tumult of U.S. political discourse.
Looking forward, James Cameron stands on the brink of significant personal and professional change. His decision to choose New Zealand as his home base may not only reshape his life but perhaps also influence how audiences engage with his projects and messages surrounding social values and environmental consciousness, as depicted frequently within his films. With Avatar 3: The Seed Bearer set to release later this year, audiences might soon witness this new chapter not just reflected on screen but also woven deeply within the narrative themes he champions.