Fans think James Cameron has snuck in a nod to Titanic in Avatar: The Way of Water

Avatar fans have been freaking out following the release of the trailer for Avatar: The Way of Water and now they're convinced it's got a subtle nod to Titanic.

Yes, James Cameron's latest blockbuster seemingly pays tribute to his most famous, Titanic, which was the highest-grossing film of all time on its 1997 release.

One fan took to Reddit to share their theory, sharing a picture of Rose Dawson in the iconic disaster movie alongside a screenshot from the upcoming Avatar film.

They captioned the comparison: "Just gonna put this here..."

Other fans were quick to comment, with one joking: "It's almost like they're both directed by the same guy..."

"Rejoice," added a second. "Russell Carpenter is the same director of photography on Titanic and Avatar TWOW. Hence the similarities aesthetically."

A third went on to praise director James Cameron more generally, writing: "Every time I watch Titanic (which every few years) I'm never not in awe of how incredible the cinematography and shot composition is. I am IN that ship as it's sinking. It's such an immersive (no pun intended) experience. The Titanic vibes in this new trailer thrilled me.

"Cameron has captured some of the most immaculate looking images ever in Western cinema. And I'm being dead serious."

Reddit / yk7ooz

Avatar: The Way of Water is being released 13 years on from the first 2009 instalment, Avatar, in what's set to be a multi-film franchise.

The film's official synopsis reads: "Jake Sully lives with his newfound family formed on the planet of Pandora. Once a familiar threat returns to finish what was previously started, Jake must work with Neytiri and the army of the Na'vi race to protect their planet."

As well as pointing out similarities between the new film and Titanic, fans were quick to express their excitement about the sequel following the release of the trailer today.

"Why does this look so spectacular," wrote one fan. "Just can't point it out but there is something about the quality of light and colours in this that I have never seen in a film before."

A second added: "Pumped to head back to Pandora to see my friend Jake Sully and his fam."

"This is cinema worthy," wrote a third while a fourth shared: "I am quite literally speechless… You and your incredible team of casts & crew have truly created something special! I cannot freakin' wait to see it."

Avatar: The Way of Water will be available in cinemas everywhere from 16 December.