The highly anticipated "Avatar" sequel "The Way of Water" has opened in cinemas worldwide. Like its predecessor, the film carries a strong message for nature conservation. Director James Cameron (68) has been personally committed to environmental protection and sustainability for many years. But at the Japanese premiere of "Avatar 2" a dolphin show took place before the eyes of the filmmaker and the stars Zoe Saldana (44), Sam Worthington (46) and Sigourney Weaver (73), which has been criticized by environmental activists.

A video that can also be seen on "Yahoo! News" shows how the stars and the director of "Avatar: The Way of Water" sit next to a huge pool in which the trained dolphins perform tricks. At one point in the clip, a trainer is riding one of the marine mammals. The "Avatar 2" stars applaud standing, leading actor Worthington and producer Jon Landau (62) appear to be filming the captive animal show with their smartphones.

Oscar winner Cameron said in a clip shared on Instagram during the dolphin show, "I love these animals, I love their intelligence," jokingly adding, "And I'm sure everyone has asked their permission to be on this show ".

PETA activist Lisa Lange said: "To see James Cameron, Sigourney Weaver and Sam Worthington sitting there and applauding was shocking. The trainers treated these dolphins like circus clowns. They rode on their noses - It doesn't get any worse".

dr In a statement, Naomi Rose of the Animal Welfare Institute called it "truly unfortunate" that filmmaker Cameron "didn't do his homework" ahead of the Japanese premiere of Avatar 2, given the film's strong environmental message. This sends a "contradictory message".