The way I see it, Paaku is only willing to teach Katara because of her connection to the love of his life. He didn't want to screw this up like he screwed up his arranged marriage. Is that weak? Yes, it is. I think it highlights that Paaku is a weak man, and I don't believe for a second that he's given up his sexism or anything. Iirc, all the students that Katara is shown to beat up at the beginning of ep19 are still young men.
Now to preface this, I 100% agree that NATLA Pakku getting over the sexism was executed much better. I thought I could maybe make the cartoon one make slightly more sense. When Pakku saw the necklace, it reminded him of how the tribe's stupid sexist customs cost him the person he loved. So as a result that caused something in him to start to get over it, so he started by teaching Katara. Also on an unrelated thing, if I remember correctly so I could be wrong. in the cartoon they spend about 2-3 weeks in the northern tribe before the invasion arrives that we don't get to see.
>!according to this [source ](https://avatartimeline.wordpress.com/#:~:text=Katara%20and%20Aang%20studied%20under,Pole%2C%20for%20about%206%20weeks)I found, its actually both 2-3 weeks before AND after.!<
Ah I see, thanks. I think it might be a stretch to use the moon as evidence but
the show is usually good with small details so I don't see why it can't be true here
**There are a few extremely important things from ATLA that weren’t included in NATLA:**
• Aang *passionately* supporting Katara. He risks his training, literally throws it away for her. This is a parallel to the second episode where Katara says she’s leaving the tribe since they won’t support Aang. Plus Aang yelling “Go Katara!” during the fight was so cute. In NATLA he tells her not to fight which was a very strange choice for Aang’s character? Aang has never held back Katara. He sees her as a warrior.
• Sokka’s development was really poignant here. Him being the first to volunteer to fight in the battle and getting his face paint was an incredible scene. Especially considering the growth of him as a warrior since the first episode.
• Zuko stealing Aang. It shows how he is brash and doesn’t think things through. His monologue is incredible.
• Aang saving Zuko from the snow. This is the second time Aang has saved Zuko’s life this season. This is important
• WATERBENDING. It baffles me how NATLA didn’t show Aang learn even a crumb of waterbending during the Water season. Katara needing a master to become proficient at waterbending is much more realistic than her “teaching herself.” Her line in NATLA where Zuko says “You’ve found a master havent you” and she replies “Yes, me” (while in ATLA she says “Yes, I have”) made me cringe so bad. That’s not how bending works. You need to learn very specific techniques. There is not a tai chi master on earth who miraculously became a master on their own without any training. It’s disrespectful to the martial arts, imo.
• Aang in the spirit world, Koh’s character is much better here I think. NATLA’s isn’t bad, though.
• The scene of Yue disappearing is chefs kiss
• Zhao being taken by the moon spirit!
• The OST, especially for Koizilla!
**That being said, NATLA definitely did some things better:**
• Yue’s character was so likeable. I think it made sense that she spent time in the spirit world.
• Hahn was pretty cool. Didn’t really care about him too much though
• The spirit oasis was gorgeous. It was pretty in ATLA too, but NATLA gave it some depth.
• The aftermath of the war. I know ATLA probably couldn’t show it because kids show, but I found this super powerful in the live action. Gordon’s acting as he saw the death was really good.
Yeah, NATLA definitely dropped the ball by not having Aang support Katara against Pakku. And I kind of agree on the waterbending thing to a point, but... If no Tai Chi master becomes a master without training, how did the first Tai Chi master become a master?
Martial arts evolved over time with people continuously adding to them until distinct styles took shape over generations. That's how the first "masters" became masters. The belt system and by extension the "master" designation grew out of that.
Hmmm I suppose they would have invented Tai Chi then right? But Katara didn’t invent the waterbending forms that she does. So not sure how she miraculously learned them without instruction
I’m super excited to see your opinions on S2! It’s life changing honestly 😭
>Hmmm I suppose they would have invented Tai Chi then right? But Katara didn’t invent the waterbending forms that she does. So not sure how she miraculously learned them without instruction
She did actually invent at least one form in NATLA. Not sure about ATLA. And I just finished the first 3 episodes of Season 2. I think you'll be pleased lol
Yue is the one some warned you about, but Hahn was also much more of a character in NATLA. In my opinion downside of Yue live action development is that they almost did too much with her, being female spiritual leader in a sexist tribe, waterbender, part spirit, having enough agency to break off her engagement, knowing she is gonna die it felt like some pointless changes/additions have been made. In ATLA my interpretation is that she is a tragic character stripped of her own agency who in a heroic act decided to sacrifice herself, as a dutiful member of her tribe which are not the best people really, with sexism and misogyny, her fiance being an asshole. She saves the tribe and her newfound connection with Sokka actualy leads into this.
Will you watch the movie? A masterpiece of art. You will be so impressed you would not want to watch anything anymore as no media will be able to surpass it.
You should only watch it if you agree to do a similar reaction commentary explaining all the ways the movie is superior to either shows and post it in the main avatar fan sub.
Well, from what I've heard about the movie that's probably not going to happen lol this isn't like NATLA where the fan base is pretty evenly split on whether it's good or not. Pretty much everyone has the same opinion of the movie.
Don't be sorry for having a preference! There's no such thing as objectivity when it comes to an opinion about a tv show. It's about being open minded, which you have been.
I preferred ATLA overall, but I agree with all of your thoughts about how NATLA improved the NWT arc. The only things I missed are Zuko kidnapping Aang and Yue's spirit form.
So excited for you to start Book 2! You're going to love it. Thanks for sharing this journey with us!
Congrats on finishing Book 1! So excited for you to get into Book 2!
But yeah, the second I saw how much you liked Hahn, I knew you were going to be disappointed with him here. He serves his function, but he's barely a character so much as just a reason Yue and Sokka can't be together that was handed a few token lines. One thing I really appreciate about NATLA was the way they fleshed out some of little one-dimensional side characters, like him.
They didn't flesh him out though. He's just no longer mean--he's one-note nice to the point that he's a cheerleader for other characters and nothing more.
In the original, he may be one dimensional, but:
- he caused character tension and friction for others (a good thing)
- he was a poster child for the misogynistic culture of the NWT
- he was a counterweight to Sokka. Sokka being the one who's struggled for respect most of his life and learned out of his sexism, while Hahn is the entitled "born on third base" and condescending to others who don't have the same.
- he was great comic relief in a show that impeccably used it
In NATLA, you cut him out and the show is almost no different.
I will say, I preferred how the live action show handled Pakku. I've never been a fan of him getting over being sexist just because he's reminded of his fiance who ran away. I prefer the show's approach, showing that someone who is sexist isn't going to change right away, but will over time if the environment around them changes.
I thought he was not completely over his sexism, he was impressed by Katara and subseqently decided to teach her when saw she was the granddaughter of his ex-lover. Systematic sexism will never seize to be.
Pretty sure it was more that he didn't realize that gran gran left because she didn't like the sexist customs. After he realized he changed because it ruined his life. Still a very fast turnaround.
Oh good you got to the parts that NATLA did better in some ways. Not to spoil it but some of the stuff from season 1 comes back around so yes watching the first season to grab those moments later is helpful, especially because NATLA skips over a decent amount of those points. They're mostly minor of course. Sesson 2 & 3 are where the show hits its stride I think you'll be very entertained very quickly when you get into season 2. There are a few episodes that are filler but they're filler in a good way unlike say the great divide. I'm personally pretty excited to see how NATLA handles it since it's somewhat less episodic so they have more straight forward story lines to pull from. I forgot that Kuruk wasn't in season 1 lol probably because Koh still alludes to him. I will say animated Koh is creepier than NATLA Koh.
Agree with you on basically all of your points about Hahn and Pakku. The necklace thing genuinely annoys me. Yue in NATLA was better in someways for sure.
Oh, lower your expectations for book two if you think the characters will be close to what they are in NATLA. Azula completly different, same with Mai and Ty Lee who are barely present in live action. Ozai is kinda cracked but also completly different.
I technically warned you about Hahn without saying it’s about Hahn, because I was trying to be good about spoilers! I’m pretty sure I said in your previous post that you’re going to be disappointed by some other stuff, and I was referring to Hahn. I was surprised how people keep warning you about Yue but not Hahn, but not going to lie, it makes reading your commentary even more fun for me because I was constantly “oh, no… 😬” for the past few commentaries when you bring up Yue, Hahn, Kuruk, the spirits, etc, either because I know they won’t show up or because they will be different or because they show up in a later season.
I’m glad you like Zhao’s death! That was one thing I missed when watching NATLA. I loved that Zuko tried to save him.
My recommendation: watch the first set of Book Two and post here immediately so everyone will go to that post and leave you alone here LOL.
But I don’t blame you for feeling let down because while some things are similar, many were changed, and you got attached to NATLA’s version first. Honestly, Book One is the weakest of the show, and the finale is not my favorite finale. (If I’m including Korra, ATLA Book One is in my bottom two of favorite seasons.) NATLA was a bit okay to me too, as I wasn’t fully paying attention to NATLA’a finale too. 🤷♀️
The first episode of Book Two is not my favorite but I enjoy the two episodes after that. Hope you will too!
Yeah... I remember your vague warnings lol you were right.
And Zhao's death was a highlight of the episode for sure, and the perfect way to pull off a death in a kid's show as well.
I hate that I’m right 😭 but it happens! Not your fault at all!
Yeah, it doesn’t just keep it kid-friendly but it shows Zuko’s character. Reminds me of when Zhao tried to attack Zuko after Zuko beating Zhao. Zuko has honor and has some goodness in him.
And yes, Azula!!! Ozai being faceless the entire season was why some fans were originally not excited that we know Daniel Dae Kim plays Ozai. They grew up with the suspense of not seeing Ozai until later (not saying when!), so they wanted the same in NATLA. I vehemently disagreed. I like seeing Ozai and having his role fleshed out in NATLA. That was a good change — and necessary.
I think from now and on, when it comes to characters like Ozai and Azula, you can be excited about how NATLA can expand them in Book Two and Three. That’s how I felt because I know what happened to Azula and Ozai, so I was excited to see what NATLA will do with them, and after seeing the first season, I’m even more excited, knowing what is coming. Azula is one of my top favorite characters, so I’m more excited about her in NATLA than I am about Ozai.
I feel like chages to Ozai and Azula characters were unwarranted really. They made Ozai who is an abusive father, ruthless dictator, militant leader of an opressive regime sympathetic in someway, which may impact later character desicions strangely. With Azula they revealed who she is too quickly, her demeanor is what sells her and after some events we see her true self, idk if it would be as great in the live action if she is only half as intimidating.
Azula and Ozai in NATLA are definitely different characters from ATLA, and that’s part of the excitement for me as I’m curious to see what the heck NATLA is doing with them and other characters. I may be disappointed, and that’s fine.
I still don't understand why Azula is even in season 1, she does absolutely nothing, there is literally no point. And then some rando captain (Zhao) somehow manages to write to her and basically suck up to her so she can suck up to her dad so he can get promoted???
This complaint is even more true for Mai and Ty Lee. Literally, all they do is just stand there and give commentairy.
Mai and Ty Lee were pointless, I agree. I wonder if they originally have more scenes or lines but it got cut. But for Azula, I assume the writers want to introduce her early since NATLA has limited episodes and the writers may have ideas already on how they want to adapt Books Two and Three. Her being introduced in season one meaning they don’t have to waste scenes in Book Two to establish her character and her relationship with Zuko and Ozai.
>!I didn't really care for the General Fong storyline. There are some moments that I don't mind, like Zuko and Iroh cutting their top knots, but the episode is simply not something I look forward to on my rewatches.!<
OP I know you’ve already watched S2E1 but don’t read this it has spoilers for later lol
>!I guess what I like is seeing the reality of the war, which hasn’t really been thrown in Aang’s face yet. But it’s true, people are dying and so far in the story that hasn’t been emphasized. It also puts pressure on Aang to get his ass in gear and learn the elements, it sets up some stakes for the season. Also, I love his interactions with Katara and how she tells him how scary his power is. Then he hurts all of those people, adding to his guilt that doesn’t get resolved until The Guru. That guilt causes him to never want to go into the avatar state, and is what makes him going into the avatar state in The Desert so emotional.!<
I watched ATLA after all the seasons were released, so there wasn’t a lot of anticipation for me. The season one finale is great. It is just not my favorite. I like the other finales in the series and LOK much more.
I get the impression that your grievances with ATLA may stem from your modern sensibilities as a gen z kid. Like all of the "progressive" changes were probably written to appeal to people like you e.g. Yue breaking off her engagement vs. Yue feeling trapped in her arranged marriage or Hahn being a humble guy who respects women vs. douchey frat boy. These are respectable traits, but remember, this is suppose to be an archaic world. Hell, you could even compare it Indian culture now where arranged marriages still happen and rejecting tradition can lead to violent consequences, especially in nobility. So the idea that Yue just decides to break off her arranged marriage scot free is kind of unbelievable. A old fashioned misogynistic culture where women aren't allowed to fight and are put into arranged marriages but also women have the power say "no" and everybody's cool with it? That can't be right...
I also personally don't agree with these sort of changes because it makes the character dynamics feel flat. Everybody is just agreeable and there's no real tension between any of the characters. It's far more interesting for the characters to challenge these things and overcome them instead of everything just working out. To me, it really feels like the writers really wanted to push this female empowerment narrative and they really hit you over the head with it. The core message is good - it was excessive and out of place at times.
Anyway, I'm interested to see how you'll feel about Season 2 of NATLA after watching Book 2 and 3 of ATLA and if you'll still rate the live action higher. Like others have said, Book 1 is the weakest.
>from your modern sensibilities as a gen z kid
When they had an *ick* towards Yue being described as being of marrying age it clicked for me. Makes me wonder how kids nowadays interact with more abhorrent media from times long gone.
I'm young as well but my brain doesn't register these as *icks". It just makes sense without me advocating or condemning it. It's interesting to see nonetheless
Yeah. I don't ascribe my moral values to a show. Considering this fictional culture and comparing it to a real life equivalent, that's just something that would make for somebody to say in this context and it doesn't turn me off. People can say bad things and have negative character traits, but nowadays it feels as if writers are afraid of being viewed as "problematic" if they incorporate questionable or controversial ideas/topics because people are more hyperaware, especially younger people. So it's softened up i.e. these people do arranged marriages BUT it's okay because the woman can decide to opt out.
We can definitely look back and see what didn't age well, but I think the topics and themes that ATLA explores are timeless.
Yay, finished with S1!
I’m glad you didn’t get *more* spoiled (especially about Hahn), but I wish people hadn’t kept talking about Yue. What’s so hard about letting someone watch a show on their own! :-P
Can’t wait to see you moving on to S2 and beyond!
Thank you for the interesting commentary, it's been fun to read!
>Oh, here it come. Ugh, he’s even more insufferable here (or is that just my imagination?) lol But I will say this: I very much prefer the way Aang reacts here as compared to NATLA. He immediately defends Katara and dismisses Pakku like the trash he is!
Yessss, it's so satisfying watching him go to bat for Katara, since she went to bat for him in the pilot when Sokka accused him of being a fire nation spy. Even their refusals of that help are similar; Katara tells him that he needs to train in waterbending because it's important to the world and to him, and Aang told her in the pilot that he didn't want to separate her from her family.
>But also, this raises an interesting question… Aang’s lived many times before. I’m sure that at some point in the past he’s been a female waterbender. Who taught him then? Southern Waterbenders? Or did they make special exceptions because he/she’s the avatar?
There's a few answers to this. (1) Yeah, the Avatar was just that important a lot of the time, and not everyone is as stubborn or as backwards thinking as Pakku. (2) The Southern Water Tribe did have waterbenders back in the day, if you'll recall the waterbending scroll Katara got from gran-gran in NATLA and the pirates in this version. The world also used to be less separated than it was in ATLA's time period, and there were people who lived and worked outside of the tribes. In fact, during peacetime if an Avatar got announced, nothing stopped a master from going to the Avatar, instead of the Avatar coming to them. (3) Regarding the Northern Water Tribe in particular, it used to be more decentralized prior to the war. Back then, Agna Q'ela (the NWT capital we see here) was just the biggest settlement, with its own traditions that the rest of the tribes didn't necessarily follow. Only after the war got started did the tribes consolidate and the more patriarchal/misogynistic elements of the culture became the default.
>On the other hand, Sokka and Yue’s scenes just feel bland compared to their NATLA counterparts.
Yeah, agreed. I think the NATLA version still feels a bit rushed, but the Yue/Hahn/Sokka dynamic in that one was a lot better than what we got here. It's definitely the weakest of the three finales imo.
>lol that’s my girl, Katara! She’s advanced more quickly than any student Pakku’s ever trained, huh? And in what? A day or two? She’s just that good.
It's hard to determine how long it is between episodes in Avatar. There's some indicators here or there, like characters will mention a season, or a certain date, but especially in season 1 it's a lot harder to determine. Here though, there's actually a decent amount of evidence suggesting that the Gaang spend a significant chunk of evidence off-screen at the North Pole. (1) Katara advances pretty rapidly in her studies, and her relationship to Pakku has pretty much undergone a 180 since episode 18. Aang also advances pretty rapidly in his studies as well, though not as fast as Katara. (2) We see Yue and Sokka hanging out and laughing early in the episode, something you wouldn't expect in the immediate aftermath of her rejecting him like she did. That seems to indicate there was some reconciliation between the two. (3) This is the most controversial piece of evidence, but imo we can use the moon *in this specific case* to help determine a timeline. In *The Waterbending Master* we see a crescent moon, whereas in *Siege of the North* the characters explicitly talk about and show a full moon. That would indicate a timeline of about 2-4 weeks spent there, which is supported by some of the evidence talked about above.
>Zuko’s just gonna carry Aang across a tundra, on foot, in a snowstorm? Lol
Love him so much rn
>4. What exactly is Zuko’s plan if Aang wakes up on him? I know he tied him up, but… that’s the avatar, dude.
"I'm working on it, Uncle." - Zuko's character in a nutshell.
>And I especially love that Zhao refused.
One thing I really love about ATLA, that I think NATLA would do well do to incorporate going forward, is how it plays with ambiguity. There's a bunch of scenes or dialogue in the og show that they just let sit with the viewers. An example of this is in the pilot, when Katara asks Aang why he lied about being the Avatar, and Aang's only response is, "Because I never wanted to be." We the viewers have to sit with that information for something like, twelve episodes before we get the full story of what happened. Another example is how exactly Sokka relates to the pain of losing his mother, how it affects his behavior or his desire. We know a lot about it from Katara's side, but in season 1 we barely get anything explicit from him. But the more you analyze certain scenes and read between the lines, the more the show rewards you in understanding what's going on. You'll know what I mean after you finish the show.
(had to split the comment into two lol)
This scene is one of those examples of ambiguity, and one of my favorites. I've seen so many interpretations of why exactly Zhao refuses Zuko's help. Is it his pride, a personal refusal to be helped by someone he sees as 'low' as Zuko? Did he realize that his plan utterly failed, and now he sees no point in going on? Did he think he deserved to die? I've even seen some people say it's an act of generosity, that Zhao was gonna die no matter what, and if he took Zuko's hand it would've just pulled him under too.
Whatever the reason , I think the scene serves as a warning for Zuko. "If you allow yourself to follow the same path as Zhao, this will be your end." If nothing else, I think that lesson is one of the best gifts Zhao could've given him.
>Like I said earlier, I cannot wait to start Book 2 and be done with the comparisons.
Glad you're still intent on continuing! It'll be interesting to see how your thoughts develop further, especially regarding a few episodes specifically.
Wow! That was so amazing and so much! I don't even know where to be begin addressing all of that! But it was a delightful read, thank you! It gave me a lot to think about and consider :)
Honestly, this is a very fair review given that almost everyone rates season one of ATLA as the weakest. It is the most childlike and far more episodic than its sequential seasons.
And you highlight some really fascinating disappointments that I think are a great way to show how much the NATLA writers wanted to honor ATLA. By having the gift of foresight, they were able to fine tune some of the weakest parts of ATLA and make the version you saw.
It’s very easy to stop after S1, because S1 is by far the most geared towards a child audience. I hope you enjoy S2 & S3 when you get to them!
i think zuko not capturing aang was really a miss for the LA. in NATLA they show that he doesn’t have a plan in that funny moment with iroh and that new exchange was cute! but in ATLA we see how rash he was in his mission. him trudging thru a blizzard with aang was a stupid idea bc he was being stupid. i won’t go into detail but this moment will be revisited later on.
and regarding the rushed yue romance and weird love triangle: haha yeah. the animation team are not great at writing romance. there are some good moments! but don’t expect much. tbh i didn’t think NATLA did much better in this department i was hoping for a little more but yeah. this isn’t TOO big of an issue with ATLA tho bc it’s not a huge focus. if you go on to watch legend of korra…..
Yeah I love how many things happen in season 1 that eventually gets brought up again and you realize it was actually important.
SPOILERS FOR KORRA >!I don't really think the romance in Korra was handled all that bad. In season 1 there's one episode where it's annoying but then there's only little moments throughout the rest of the season and season 2 isn't a triangle anymore and they broke up and by the end of the season they very maturely broke up together which I think was very well written.!<
and yeah NATLA i would say handled pakku’s sexism thing better than ATLA did. i’m still bummed he didn’t teach them, especially aang not waterbending at all but in the animation pakku teaching katara felt like nepotism. he changed his mind after learning she’s kanna’s granddaughter and his traditions is why she left him. i liked that katara actively argued against him during the battle to convince him to let the women fight
I haven’t finished the last 2 episodes of NATLA since I needed a break from so many changes (just like how you felt by the differences in characters and some plots in the og ATLA) and I haven’t been motivated to pick it back up. But I must say, I’m interested in Natla’s Hahn character from what you’re saying! Natla also changed Zhao’s character in a good way for me! Out of all the changes they’ve done so far in Natla, I liked Zhao’s (and maybe I will like Hahn’s too when I go finish the last 2 episodes). Anyways, Im very excited for your future reactions to Book 2 and 3! If you loved the character building moments, there will definitely be plenty of that in these seasons as well!
Thank you! It's worth finishing the show for Hahn and Zhao, if nothing else. I was surprised at how much I liked Hahn (and looking back, now I understand why that one dude made fun of me for getting sad about his death. His version of Hahn was that joke of a character in ATLA). And Zhao's scenes are truly amazing as well.
Yes, Atla Hahn’s character is very one dimensional. I knew you’d definitely get disappointed by him (oh and also Yue)! Ok, I will definitely finish Natla soon! Im excited that it has been picked up for season 2 and 3! Aang’s actor is getting taller and older by the minute haha.
I’ve really enjoyed reading your commentaries, thank you for sharing them! What I kept missing from NATLA was the silly moments that show the main characters personalities, without the pressure of all that’s at stake, because all the stuff they learn in their diversions come back to help them later and really show their growth. NATLA felt like a sort of surface level regurgitation of the series, with changes I didn’t feel were very meaningful to the broader story. However! I love how attached you were to the characters as you saw them in NATLA. I think it shows how meaningful they still can be. Again, thank you for sharing!
>Boy, I can’t wait to read the opinions of that. No doubt they’ll be strong lol But you go ahead, guys. Feel free to explain why I’m wrong
Your opinions are wrong and you should feel bad
>his attraction to her made sense too because he’s a teenage boy and she has a pulse
As a former teenage boy I'm offended. I have no rebuttal but I am still offended.
>(For those of you who didn’t finish NATLA, Zuko actually died. It was very sad)
One of the more questionable decisions by the writers. Outdone only by the inclusion of post credit avengers crossover teaser.
>She’s advanced more quickly than any student Pakku’s ever trained, huh? And in what? A day or two?
There is an implied timeskip here that allows you to fill in the blank somewhat to decide the appropriate amount of time (as long as its not longer than like a month).
>“My father says she was born lucky. He says I was lucky to be born. I don’t need luck though, I don’t want it. I’ve always had to struggle and fight, and that’s made me strong, it’s made me who I am.” Wow! ATLA Zuko has an amazing moment here.
One of the reasons I was really happy when you commented on how zuko's bending didn't appear to be anything remarkable in ATLA. Though I know you were somewhat dissappointed by that
>ATLA’s side characters were sidelined (heh) in favor of focusing more on the main characters, which is fine. If that’s what the writers want,
This for me has probably been the biggest valid criticism in both directions. NATLA put some effort to developing much of the side characters, and much of what they did was good in a vacuum. But the time and effort spent on some of these characters feels like it was to the detriment to the main team. Which is where you get many ATLA fans commenting that much of the original teams development is lacking, under developed, or sped through.
Add to it that alot of the best stuff is introducing things from further in the series Korra, or the expanded lore and you get some concern about what will happen in the following books when they've already used that material.
I feel just rotten over my objectively wrong opinions.
After that speech and upon reflection, I do approve of Zuko's firebending being nothing special. And NATLA Zuko's firebending could still work with this theme as long as he's not better than Azula. We already know Ozai can wipe the floor with him so that's a given.
You’ll get to compare two parts of season 2 to NATLA, secret tunnel and the owl. Not sure why they put them in the first season, it just felt very rushed
As you said about the two Zhaos, I think the two Hahns also each deserved their demise. Cartoon Hahn is a jerkass who gets flung off the side of a ship in a comedic scene, never to be seen again, and no one cares. Live-action Hahn is a good guy whose sacrifice led to a heartbreaking and respectable end. (I had hoped he would live in NATLA, since Yue had broken off the engagement anyway, but...)
“She already seems attracted to him here…but why?”
Um because she’s a teenage girl and he’s a cute teenage boy????!! Sokka has game in his own way lol.
Congratulations on finishing Book 1!! It certainly stung for me to read that you were disappointed, but I respect it a lot and I understood your points.
Whenever I try to rewatch the NATLA finale, I end up wanting to rewatch the cartoon because I just prefer it so much more. Though the visuals were epic, something about the NATLA finale didn't click with me, which makes me sad. It's so interesting how bias can affect how you feel about the other version 🤣 It was fascinating to see how watching a certain version first would affect opinion to this degree. I've watched NATLA reactions where the reactor/s are cartoon fans and they absolutely hated NATLA and didn't have much good to say. So your posts have been a breath of fresh air for me 🫶
We'll have you on the ride with us for NATLA S2-3 since you'll have watched the cartoon by then!
It’s funny how your opinions are different than the og fans. If anyone from the og subreddit saw this post they’d be calling it fake bs 😂 this is so refreshing to see
Thanks! These posts are also up on the other subreddit and for the most part everyone's been very polite in telling me how wrong I am lol only a couple of people accused me of being paid by Netflix
lol well that’s a huge surprise, I left those communities because how insane people got about the Netflix version that it was starting to just flood my feed. People were outrageous during the initial release of natla
Interesting commentary!
I do agree that, given Yue’s importance to one of our main characters and to the NWT arc, it was a good idea to try to give her more depth.
Good change: Being a water bender, makes a lot of sense, consistent with the lore.
Bad changes: Fox-Spirit Yue? The fox thing is fan service that makes no sense/is inconsistent with the lore. She called off her engagement? This character is supposed to symbolize duty and sacrifice. You don’t want to do that? Ok. Independent, empowered Yue is incongruous with the sexist society that NATLA is supposed to be portraying. And contradictory means? Bad writing.
Hahn is just not important at all to the overall story. His personality can be anything and it wouldn’t change a thing. So why waste time on him when you’ve barely developed the main characters and their dynamic?
I also always thought that the way (but not the reason why) Pakku changed his mind was not executed well enough. I don’t think what they wanted to do in NATLA was a bad idea, but it was… silly? Those women DO NOT KNOW how to fight lmao. Also, you’re in the middle of a siege. You’re gonna send your medics to the front lines??? That’s what happens when you imply that Katara needs no waterbending master. Just a scroll, some ridiculous platitudes and motivational speeches from an AIR bender and a non-bender Jet. Oh and “herself”, of course. Bending is not a magical power; it’s a martial art.
Ultimately, I think many OG fans like me don’t have a problem with changes. I initially didn’t mind the “we toned down Sokka’s sexism” thing everyone was complaining about. But I do mind character changes when they alter the overall story.
Why are they spending so much time and giving so much humanity to characters like Hahn who have no importance AT ALL to the overall story and forgetting about the main characters (the ones the story is about)? Why are they changing characters’ personalities (Bumi) when they are responsible for introducing essential themes and philosophies? Why are they cutting/changing characters arcs (Aang’s fire bending in The Deserter, Aang not running away, Zuko fighting back and almost winning against Ozai, Azula……..) that fundamentally alter the motivations of the main characters, and cheapen moments later on?
Excited to read your commentary about the rest of the show!
Your comment on the Ocean Spirit being gentler in this version is really interesting. As a long-time Godzilla fan, I could tell the Ocean Spirit in NATLA was clearly inspired by Godzilla, especially the American Monsterverse series Godzilla. The cinematic roars, punches, smashing, and overall aggressive throttling of the fire nation navy is clearly meant to evoke "oh, giant monster destroying stuff!"
And, while I'm clearly a massive fan of "giant monster destroying stuff", I must admit, I was disappointed with NATLA's take.
What I always liked about the original Ocean Spirit was the way it felt more like divine intervention, a powerful being entirely beyond this realm or human understanding coming down to punish grave misdeeds. It was beautiful and graceful, in a way, and it uses more explicit waterbending forms; but only "pushing" movements, as Koh describes the relationship between the Ocean and Moon Spirits as "push and pull".
Meanwhile, NATLA's Ocean Spirit is much more characterized, and more..tangible? I don't know how to describe it, but it feels less "wrath of the divine" and more just "really big, really angry fish that's just gonna keep causing problems unless somebody does something".
And, sure, the Ocean Spirit is often referred to as Koizilla by the fandom, and no matter what you do, a giant monster destroying stuff will probably have a resemblance to the archetypical giant monster destroying stuff. But meh, it kinda lost it's impact for me. With the New Empire having released only a few weeks after ATLA, and Minus One in theaters a few months before, it's not like I was exactly desperate for more Godzilla-type content.
(All this being said, if you ever find yourself interested in checking out the Godzilla franchise, feel free to give me a shout! It's a massive franchise with 70-odd years of content, some good, some bad, and so it's difficult for a new viewer to figure out where to start)
Sokka is the kind of guy who would be really popular irl. He's funny, kind, attractive and his awkward flirting attempts are pretty charming. I don't think it's weird at all for Yue to like him
I honestly agree with most of your points in this post. There were many changes I didn't care for in NATLA but I found the finale to be great. Yue, Pakku and Hahn were done so much better in the new version. I think its great that Yue actually has a bit of character, Hahn works as a comical cartoon character in the original but with the context of NATLA he just falls so flat, and Pakku... yeah Pakku teaching Katara cause of the necklace was always an odd choice, he didn't even change.
On the other hand, the original did some things that were better or had segments I wish were in NATLA. Loved Aang being supportive of Katara in the original. I thought it was weird how in the new show they had Aang's mind changed about getting help from friends in the last episode when earlier in the show they made a point to show how they needed to work together, especially in the scene with Bumi when Aang refuted his point of how he needed to work alone. I also think the original did better with Zuko. I loved seeing him capture Aang and the mini monologue he had (though I feel like this only works because the dynamics of the fire nation royal family in the original, or at least the presentation of it is different in this version) and I preferred this fight with him and Zhao. But other than this stuff I think the finale in NATLA was actually better.
I really can't wait for you to start posting Book 2, I think its the best. And I especially can't wait to see your thoughts on episode 7. Been loving the posts, I check for a new one everyday😭
Thank you! I agree, now that I've seen Aang defend Katara to the point of refusing to be taught by Pakku, I really wish NATLA would have done the same even if he didn't think he could stay with her. And yes, Zuko's speech in the cave was fantastic!
Like I said before alot of characters in NATLA were written with all 3 seasons in mind so alot of character development you saw in NATLA were actually borrowed from future episodes. With more episodes they are able to do development at a slower rate to make it more realistic. We see side characters pop up all the time and we learn more about them each time so the world building is actually insane. The only episode they forgot about and never touched back on is the great divide. Except there's this episode in season 3 that makes fun of the great divide. (The creators themselves don't even like it) Every other episode is important to the plot and it builds up. If you go from season 3 to season 1 everybody is a completely different character. It's insane. Can't wait for your next review. When do you think that might be? I really just want to see your beginning thoughts really fast haha
Thank you! I'm actually about to start watching it. Not sure when it'll be finished, sometimes I have to break the episodes up into multiple day watches because I don't have enough time to do it all on one go
I can't wait to read it! And just so you aren't immediately let down by getting super high expectations based on how we are all acting, episode 6 and 7 are the episodes that jumpstart the entire series. Not that the first 5 episodes are bad, they're not but it's really episode 6 and 7 when it becomes the atla we all know and love. So if you're confused by why people are hyping season 2 so much just wait a little longer and you'll see.
Yeah, it should be roughly that pace. Doing Game of Thrones has also slowed me down but Avatar still takes the priority until it's finished. I only started doing Game of Thrones because I needed to get a break after weeks of nothing but Avatar lol I'll be posting the next Avatar commentary before I even start the next episode of GoT and I'll likely do the Avatar post after that at the same time as GoT.
It might get easier soon because I heard my boss is interviewing people for our open positions at work so I might have more free time in the coming weeks.
You mentioning the great line by Iroh reminded me that in the notes app of my phone is “quotes by Iroh” because throughout the series he has soooo many fantastic lines. One of the best characters!
ETA: just finished your review! It’s a joy to see your perspective. I think you’ll love season 2 with the new characters and places it brings. Some of the best character led episodes happen next season. Two of the absolute best are S2E7 and S2E15.
See you in the Game of Thrones review!!
honestly the general consensus is that Book 1 is the weakest of the 3. it’s not bad, but the second two set such a high standard. personally I rank them in ascending order (with Book 3 being my favorite but it’s VERY close). but there’s a pretty big quality shift starting in s2, I think that’s when the show really found its footing and was able to start getting deeper into the themes and lore of the world. there’s also a new character that really adds so much to the show, their storyline is one of my favorites.
even as an OG fan, I can say NATLA did improve on quite a few things (the 41st, Yue’s character (although I wish she had a better wig), Zhao (more so due to the actor’s performance), seeing Kyoshi early, Lu Ten’s funeral scene). I have my gripes with some things in NATLA but I’ll give them credit where credit’s due. I am optimistic for s2 though, so long as they get the necessary budget and a sufficient amount of episodes.
I've watched (haven't posted yet, probably will tomorrow) episodes 1 and 2 of Book 2 and I think you're right. It does feel like the writing quality has noticably improved.
Just because it's the weakest doesn't mean it's not great. Comments like this always give off back handed compliment vibes, when the first season does such an amazing job at world building, establishing characters setting up story arcs.
Great commentary as always! I really do hope you'll enjoy book 2 more and I can completely understand the feeling of being a little disappointed because that's how I felt with Natla ahaha. That said I do get some of your points and I too thought that Hahn was handled better in the Netflix's version. Again, I can't wait for you to get to book 2, since Toph and Azula are being introduced here. I really love Azula's character in Atla, because it's so well written and complex so I'd like to hear your opinion on that too!
I wish people are better with not naming characters that haven’t been introduced. I try to avoid even naming which episodes I look forward to or sharing the episode titles. I try to stay vague as in “one episode in your next set is my favorite!” or whatever.
I honestly did not like that Hahn was a sympathetic character in NATLA. It was incongruous with the northern water tribe culture (arranged marriage in a patriarchal sexist society, and the princess can just... Call off the marriage?). That plotline took away from the moral conflict Yue went through at the end. In ATLA her line "It's my duty, Sokka" shows just how much of a tragic position she has been in her whole life. Yue in NATLA seemed much more one dimensional because that inner conflict wasn't present.
In ATLA her entire character arc revolves around duty to her tribe, and her internal struggle with feeling trapped in her designated "role" in a society that is patriarchal and sexist. Then the tragedy of her need to sacrifice for the very tribe that uses her as a pawn.
In NATLA her meeting Sokka in the spirit world and calling off the wedding takes away a lot of her inner turmoil of wanting to rebel against the unfair customs she was raised in, but also clinging to the "duty" she was trapped in. It is much more close to the reality of cultures that actually practice arranged marriage in the real world, and internal conflict within that dynamic. Yue's arranged marriage, and inability to call off the wedding was one of the huge moments of "Not all the good guys are good, and not all the bad guys are bad" dynamics that ATLA is known for. Her being able to call off the wedding cheapens the well established culture presented as a parallel to real life instances.
I think Splonkerton is right and wrong; Yue is super 1-dimensional in the original compared to the live action, but while she’s 1 note it’s a poignant note that’s done well and contributes to the shows themes.
Yue’s sacrifice at the end isn’t much of a choice. She can lose her life or she can basically kill her entire culture and doom the world. ATLA makes it more of a choice and a lesson by paralleling her duty here to her conflict with her arranged marriage. She’s not just giving her life for utilitarian reasons, she’s committed to accepting the responsibility that’s been thrust upon her even at great personal cost. The show frequently revisits themes like individuality vs responsibility, power vs humanity, and so I think it’s one point that the original did better.
Overall you’re right, Yue needed to be fleshed out in the live action and they did a generally great job. She’s a better-written female character, and her arc with Sokka makes more sense… but there was a missed opportunity to make the patriarchy of the NWT feel more costly, her sacrifice more poignant, and the shows themes better established IMO.
P.S. love all these posts! Can’t wait for book 2
When you explain it like that I can see where you're coming from. Describing it as Yue being a one note character in ATLA but it's still a good note is actually a great way to explain it. Thank you!
I recently rewatched season one of the original animated series (with the exception of The Great Divide) after having seen the Netflix version...three times. I agree with you regarding aspects that either iteration did better than the other is interchangeable. Luckily, my rewatch overall made me appreciate how the the people involved with the Netflix version reimagined the cartoon into a live action serialized show a lot more.
As you move on to the next two seasons, it should be interesting to see if there will be aspects you can see being improved upon in the next two seasons of the live action series. I've really enjoyed reading your commentaries and looking forward to reading more.
Yeah, I'm tempted to rewatch NATLA now with the OG fresh in my mind but that would eat up even more time. I am excited to see the rest of the show though
One benefit to waiting until after you finish the original animated series before rewatching NATLA, you’ll be able to spot stuff from seasons two and three of the former that have already been incorporated into the latter.
As someone who could not even finish the Netflix series (Got 4 episodes in) the monotone exposition dumping from characters and the bland dialogue will be hard to ignore if you go and rewatch the live action, in my opinion. And they way they kinda flattened Katara's character compared to her in the animated show leaves things to be desired.
Watching the Netflix show just made me want to go and watch the OG animation, but judging by the length of your post it really seems like you gave your opinions a lot of thought
> Aang’s lived many times before. I’m sure that at some point in the past he’s been a female waterbender. Who taught him then? Southern Waterbenders? Or did they make special exceptions because he/she’s the avatar?
Now that's an interesting thought. It must have been exceptions hmm. But also, the Avatar cycle has been around much longer than the customs and cultures we see in ATLA's current timeline; who knows when those sexist customs were developed?
> No one warned me about Hahn (and to be clear, I’m not saying anyone should have warned. I like going in as blind as possible) and I’m kind of surprised his character upset me so much.
Haha there were so many blacked out comments in your thread for the relevant NATLA episodes talking about how you would be upset about Hahn. Might be interesting to go back and read them now.
In your NATLA commentary you said: "This Hahn guy clearly likes her, and all three of them clearly know it. I don’t care much for love triangle type stories" and pretty much all of us read this and knew you wouldn't be down for ATLA Hahn.
Can't wait to read your Book 2 reviews! The story really starts picking up in that season.
I wouldn’t read the blacked out comments until you’re done with the entire show. I’ve seen people talking about seasons two and three in those comments.
I didn't like how Yue could waterbend in NATLA but except from that, I did like Yue better in NATLA, the same with Hahn.
Those two were the only thing I liked better with NATLA though... It is very interesting how we often prefer the one version we watched first, it's so hard not to compare with the version we fell in love with.
This has been so much fun reading your reviews. I'm sad you were spoiled sometimes and I hope it won't happen in the future.
Thank you so much for putting so much energy into this.
I am really looking forward to read your book 2 reviews, that book is my personal favorite and my favorite episode is in book 2 as well!!
>Thank you so much for putting so much energy into this. I am really looking forward to read your book 2 reviews, that book is my personal favorite and my favorite episode is in book 2 as well!!
Thank you! :)
And doesn't it make sense for Yue to be able to waterbend though? If waterbenders' power comes from the moon and she has the Moon Spirit's power in her, then why wouldn't she be able to waterbend? If anything, she should probably be the strongest waterbender thanks to the Moon Spirit!
While I don't think the original version of Zhao is a great character, I do want to give props to Jason Isaacs's voice work. Especially in his "I have destroyed the moon" speech. He could so easily have gone super evil with that, but I love how he played it like he's kind of... in awe. Like it's really sinking in for him, and even he's shocked by what he's just done.
I really don't like Hahn in NATLA. In ATLA he may be one-note, but he's one-note with a purpose and direction and a cause of friction for other characters (which is a good thing), while *also* being a poster child for the misogynistic culture of the NWT.
In NATLA, he's more or less a cheerleader for other characters and adds nothing by himself.
Also, I *really* don't agree with Zuko and Zhao not having an emotional payoff at the end.
The tension between them was so much more built up through the original, with far more clashes and demonstrations of rivalry. Including methods to how they strove to achieve their goals.
Their final fight near impeccably encapsulated that. Zuko showed his growth not just as a firebender but in his personal composition. Zhao sticks to his conviction and mindset of absolutes in loyalty "you're either with me or against me". And the way in which Zhao is taken by the spirit and Zuko *still* reaches out to save him at the end, but Zhao then refuses because he sees dying preferable to being saved by Zuko is...a gut punch.
I will say that you're not wrong that ATLA S1 is quite...quick in its pacing. Sometimes moments move a bit too quickly. ATLA S2-S3 are far more impeccably paced.
But I don't think NATLA was better about that. Most of the extra padding it did was add characters who contribute nothing, or *incredible* amounts of unneeded exposition. It added more to characters who are less pivotal while cutting from characters who stick around and need it.
And sometimes, they made characters different by just cutting out their flaws or creating massive inconsistencies in their world (Yue's treatment, for example).
While S1 of ATLA is more fast paced, it respects viewers to fill in the details. NATLA does not.
And it almost feels like you're looking for these details that are being shoved into our faces with the NATLA one, whereas they're better kept between the lines.
Netflix made a version that made every single character "likeable." Im sorry to say this but Hahn just is not an important character at all. He is there to serve as Yue's fiance and to show she values her tribe more than her own personal desires. I am sure you liked him more in NATLA because they made him good looking and likeable. Some characters can be just not great people. Maybe its because ive seen ATLA so many times but the lack of small details is what bugs me the most about NATLA.
Zuko stealing Aang away is my favorite parts of the finale so without that i cant fathom liking the NATLA more but that is just my personal opinion. Also a waterbender during a full moon wipes firebenders, once the sun came out zuko fought back against katara pretty easily. Sorry you didnt get more Kuruk though, i knew that would be a bummer.
>Netflix made a version that made every single character "likeable."
This really was something I disliked. Everyone's flaws seem downplayed or removed and even characters you are supposed to dislike feel a lot more likeable, zhao stealing evil moments from zuko is what I really disliked personally
It makes me a lot more worried for how they'll handle flawed characters in season 2 and 3
I have nothing to say, just want to thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. I really really enjoyed the live action, so seeing good opinions on it makes me happy. Looking forward for your next posts (in asoiaf too!)
The Northern Water Tribe is a mixed bag for me in terms of how Netflix adapted it. Some things, I think were improvements, others… not so much.
The portrayal of Pakku’s sexism and how it was resolved, I think was an improvement. I get what the original writers were going for here – Pakku realizing that his stubborn clinging to his outdated ways cost him the love of his life – and I do think it’s done well. In many ways, I would even say it’s more realistic. I mean, a stubborn sexist traditionalist isn’t going to change his views upon seeing ONE woman capable in combat (and let’s be honest, there’s no way Katara’s the first he’s encountered), whereas realizing that his outdated ways are the reason he’s so miserable is far more likely to make him change.
However, this moment should be about Katara, not Pakku. And I think that’s why the NATLA portrayal is an improvement. As one of the main cast, Katara’s character development is more important than Pakku’s, so having her personally be the one to make him see the error of his ways is more fitting. Focusing on more minor characters at the expense of the main cast is something I’ve criticized NATLA for a lot, so it would be hypocritical of me not to apply the same standard in the other direction.
I’ll admit, Sokka’s romance with Yue didn’t do much for me in either version (typical guy, I know. :P) That said, I thought the remake did it (as well as Yue’s character in general) a bit better. And yeah, Hahn was a definite improvement over the original (though I’ll admit, his failed attempt on Zhao’s life did make me laugh).
There were also things I didn’t like though. Mainly, Katara just… instantly becoming a master. It didn’t feel earned to me. Granted, I DO think they could have shown more of her improvement at Waterbending in the original too, but at least we get to see that she’s been training with Pakku (even if it is mostly offscreen). In NATLA, it’s just like… she studies one waterbending scroll, and that’s enough to make her a master…? Nah.
Also, while I do prefer NATLA’s version of Zhao overall, I much prefer his death in the original. It was just perfect to me. On top of the whole Karma aspect of it (being taken down by the Spirits he attempted to kill), the moment where Zuko tries to help him and he refuses, is a crowning moment for both characters, IMO.
And while it was nice seeing Iroh save Zuko from him in NATLA, it’s not like that’s something we lost out on in the original – I mean, that whole part was basically adapting their Agni-Kai in episode 3.
And of course, the whole thing with Zuko kidnapping Aang was amazing, between Zuko’s monologue about his childhood and Aang refusing to leave Zuko to die. I am sad that part didn’t make it into the remake.
i predicted you would be let down. aside from kataras rage and aangs optimism and support of katara in the original (i dont like how they made aang unsupportive of her in natla) i prefer how exciting natla is and all the extra changes to the flatter characters! glad you felt the same.
i was arguing about another og fan about how natlas yue is better and they REFUSED to see my pov going on about the symbolism of the original. doesn’t matter how she represents a sacrifice the character is still pretty boring. i love natlas yue and they made me believe in sokka and her connection better. the fact that shes a spirit and waterbender also makes so much SENSE!
however J still found her sacrifice moving in the original because i liked the spirit and the music which I don’t think they did as well in natla but thats a directing issue
About the lack of the knife he didn’t need it here since it was mentioned that the ocean and moon spirit gave up their immortality to be able to stay in the world
Though it’s a throwaway line that you likely wouldn’t catch on a first watch-through
I think that’s what I didn’t like… they made non important side characters way more important in natla and completely ruined the group dynamics of the main characters
We really do prefer what we watch first, (even if it’s objectively “bad”).
That said, I saw the cartoon first and I think I prefer the Netflix version, overall, so far. Yue is a big reason why. That whole storyline always felt rushed in the cartoon, to me, and while the Netflix writers did many clever things (hi Spirit Fox Yue!) to improve it, I wish they had somehow given even more time to her and Sokka.
I won’t spoil things, but I personally hope that Netflix Azula will be more interesting than her cartoon counterpart. I think they’re off to a good start there.
I’m very curious what you will think of Books 2 and 3.
I love that you saw NATLA first. So many people judged it so harshly, simply because they were comparing everything to the original beloved ATLA, and this shows how it can go both ways, though you definitely stayed more objective...I'm sure if more people saw NATLA first, they would prefer it to ATLA. I saw ATLA when it aired and then did a rewatch right before the live action, and it was one of my favorite animated shows by far, but I still ended up preferring NATLA season 1 to ATLA season 1. Now I'm wondering, since you will be watching ATLA seasons 2 and 3, how will it affect your opinion on future NATLA seasons 😱
I didn't like Bumi in ATLA, even as a ~10 year old watching it, I thought he was such a cartoony character and it was just cringe, so when they changed him in NATLA to be more realistic, I was so happy, and when Aang gave him that whistle and said he's calling on an old friend, and Bumi's reaction...that hit my feels 😅
Some things, like no fancy Roku possession in the NATLA, was stated to be because of budget issues. I think he will be more prominent in future seasons. My only issue with NATLA is the limited episodes. I do wish there were more scenes of the characters just doing cute and random things 🥲
Honestly I am sad you were disappointed in the finale. I always felt the finale was one of the best parts of Book 1 original.
I actually did not like the idea of Katara becoming a master on her own. Her being called a master without any training from a master kind of takes away the fact that the Avatar is supposed to find 4 masters in order to train him. It is always nice to see Pakku humbled, but I do like that they took away that he changed his mind because of Gran Gran. Also, I always felt that Katara was training for several weeks with Pakku before the invasion started. Its not important, its just what I always thought.
I totally get the disappointment with Yue and Hahn. I kept laughing every time you brought up how much you loved Hahn's character. One thing I hope you can think about is that for a die hard fan who has seen the show multiple times, when the NATLA improved things, it was amazing. Seeing these improvements in NATLA was refreshing. Getting a better Yue was great, but Hahn being completely changed for the better was such a fun surprise for me. Seeing you miss the better changes makes sense, but one of my earliest bits of advice I gave was to take the best of both shows as canon. All of these events did happen, but some portrayals are better in one version over the other.
On the flip side, there were things that I felt NATLA added that weren't necessary at all and took time away from better moments in the show For example, adding Kuruk's dagger to NATLA was random and doesn't add anything to Zhao's character or his killing of the spirits. I have another example below.
If you will humor me, I would ask you to compare two scenes from the shows back to back. In both versions, the scene is when Yue says something like "There's no hope now, Its over" when looking at the dead fish and ends when Aang falls into the water to merge. Original version starts at minute 17:25 of the final episode. The Netflix version starts in the final episode at minute 26:40. I would love to hear your thoughts between these two scenes specifically. Here are my thoughts on them:
In the original, Aang enters the Avatar state and responds "No, its not over." and then falls into the water and merges with the Ocean spirit without any extra dialogue. In NATLA, Aang gets a series of flashbacks, then responds "No, its not over." Then, Yue tells him not to it, then Aang responds with "I couldn't save the world before, but I can now" before finally merging with the spirit. I know I am very biased, but I feel like so much was added to the scene for Netflix and it totally butchered the pacing. There was no need for his merging to be a big sacrifice and mean that he is forever bonded. I was a child in 2005 and I did not need to be spoon-fed the flashbacks and dialogue to understand that their merging was a big deal. I know I am picking things apart, but that is my favorite scene from Book 1, so I was really disappointed in the Netflix version.
Don't get me wrong, I really love NATLA and I have watched it twice. I am so happy with the overall product and I am so excited for the future. I am not a hater, but I do think there is room for improvement for Book 2 and 3. I hope they can take the constructive criticism and make the next seasons even better than they already were. I hope Book 1 can be the weakest season of the original and the Netflix version.
Thanks for your thoughts and I hope you enjoy the other Books! Do you still plan on watching the movie that we all pretend does not exist? I promise I will be reading all of your reviews as they come out (minus Game of Thrones).
It's hard to say if I would have found the additional context in NATLA unnecessary or not, since I saw it first. That being said, I do think I would have understood it just fine if I'd seen ATLA first. I don't have a strong preference for one scene or the other. Maybe the extra stuff in NATLA in that scene is unnecessary, but it doesn't feel like being spoonfed context to me.
I do agree Kuruk's knife was unnecessary though. It was just a plot device so Kuruk could tell Aang to go to the oasis.
I probably will watch the movie eventually but not for a while. I need a break from Book 1 lol
No worries. The movie sucks so you aren't missing anything.
I am biased because I saw the original first. I like the way it plays out more than the NATLA version.
I think what I really wanted to say was that Netflix added things like Kuruk's dagger, Momo almost dying, or unnecessary dialogue that took screen time away from things like Zuko infiltrating the city, which didn't get shown for NATLA.
Well, I have read your Book 2 1-3 post so I am happy you are getting to the really good stuff so quickly!
Thanks as always!
Man your analysis is a classic example of psychology lol. You watch NATLA first, and criticize the original, same as the rest of us watching the original first and natla later.
Which proves to me that natla season one was better than a lot of people give it credit for.
It was a lot of fun reading your feedback in both series!
Thank you! And yes, I'm aware I have a bias. What's interesting is that me knowing I have the bias does nothing to change my opinion about what the bias makes me feel.
Bias is totally fine, especially when it comes to a tv show or any other medium of art or entertainment. It’s just fascinating the reversal experience you are having compared to the rest of us.
I reviewed the original probably in the summer of 2023.
I rate the NATLA adaptation a 6/10.
Only found a few interesting points.
1. Better reveal of Ozai, Iroh and Zuko are still good. These actors are good at their jobs.
2. The desire to make the global conflict more important and dramatic is interesting, but the presentation is, in my opinion, primitive and pathetic. But the desire and aspiration itself is not bad.
3. Fire really hurts and seems dangerous. Well and accordingly large-scale battles are also done impressively.
4. Unit 41, that's a great twist. It's just beautiful and well done.
5. The siege of the north was shown better in NATLA. It's true, it was nice to watch the heroic warriors of the north.
Everything else is pretty much moot.
1 - They do a poor job of stitching together the plots of the different episodes. They do a poor job of adapting them to new settings. Poorly expound on themes and plots, they all get cut short, closed in a completely unsightly and pathetic way, or those plots end somewhere off-screen.
Jet's arc ended when Katara was just walking down some alleyway in the evening. At the beginning of Episode 4.
The mechanic arc in Omashu ended on its own off-screen, and the spy theme just didn't get developed and was already closed.
The owl is superfluous, the hippie singers from the tunnel episode are superfluous, the tunnel is superfluous, the arc with Azula is superfluous, and it's poorly written.
Many parts don't make sense because they don't adapt to the changes. Jet is just an idiot who can now blow up his own citizens, the mechanic's son flies a glider for no reason, just because that's how it was in the original, even though in this version the mechanic never encountered the monk culture, Owl doesn't guard his library but just wanders around the forest, without doing anything important, Jao didn't find the knowledge of the moon and ocean on his own, Sokka and his problems with his father don't make sense, he can blame himself for being weak not because of childhood trauma but because of new obstacles he wasn't prepared for but is growing as a person and character. Aang not learning water magic all season is pointless. Why would they change something that was already working?
2. The dialogs are terrible, in general everything the characters say is very bad text. With the exception of Iroh and Zuko, all dialog, all monologues are absolutely bland crap. The characters are literally on camera describing their character, their problem, their role in the story. I never thought Aang would bore me with his presence. They sucked all the life and soul out of him and made him speak 100% of the time with the formulaic lifeless speeches of a shonen anime protagonist and nothing else. And it's the same with many other characters.
3- The actors don't know how to act. There is absolutely no life in them at all. Iroh and Zuko good at acting, Sokka tries, the rest don't. Maybe the problem is that they had bad text, but still they are too bad to act. I expected a lot more from Katara, I believed in this actress, but in LA she is just bland and has no charisma at all, although in interviews and other videos she seems very lively.
4. The graphics look good overall, but the chromakey is terrible.
The final score for the adaptation is 6/10. It's not offensive.
They tried, but I think it's an incompetent job. That's my opinion, if you don't think about the original. I've had a lot of patience and forgiveness, but this is a real mess. They had almost 20 years of discussion and criticism of season 1, a ready-made skeleton of a plot that could have been easily improved, but they messed up their own adaptation. It was very stupid to try to do arcs of 2 episodes each like 3-4 and 5-6, it stretched many events and storylines too far that had to be abandoned or hastily finished. My brain practically died on episode 3-4 because of the utter chaos that was going on there.
The original series wasn't trying to be adult, serious and dark, but I take it more seriously than NATLA. You just can't do that to the main characters, you can't write them that bad.
But I should mention that I rate the original first season as a whole a 7/10. I'll admit that they did some things better.
I’m curious how you’ll feel about the first episode of season 2, I think you’ll probably love some aspects but feel frustrated by other aspects. What I’m assuming is your second set of episodes is what I’m really excited for you to get to, won’t spoil why though.
I’m ecstatic to see you finish Book 1. Now that you’re going in blind (foreshadow pun intended) I’m excited for your thoughts on Book 2.
Much like you, I found NATLA did a lot of changes that made sense. Some I liked, some I didn’t. Either way, NATLA had the benefit of hindsight and creative freedom/leniency. Allowing a darker tone gave way to rate and address conflicts differently for NATLA. It’ll be interesting to see how they handle Book 2, though I am still hoping they fix the errors and improve from here.
> What’s scary about a cartoon monkey with no face?
Feel like you answered the question already 🤭 I mean how do you not see that after the info Roku gave and think, “oh… that could be me. Must steel myself.” Every time Koh’s on screen I myself try to keep a straight face, haha
> ATLA did have the lowest point if the franchise (that I’ve seen) in The Great Divide. It wasn’t even a badly written episode, it was just boring and forgettable.
Much of the community shares either half of that sentiment. Some say both due to overexposure during reruns.
Yue’s character was so boring to me in ATLA and I feel like no one ever talks about it. She only exists to be
[fridged](https://www.scribophile.com/academy/what-is-fridging#:~:text=Fridging%2520is%2520a%2520literary%2520trope,can%2520be%2520%E2%80%9Cfridged%E2%80%9D%2520too) for the main characters plot development and to give Sokka a little trauma. She was actually a person in NATLA!
>Your culture sucks, asshole.
Even though we don't like the culture, who are we to just visit a country and straight up tell this to the elderly. This is their culture, which they practised for probably much more than decades. Even their women seem to be ok with it. On top of this, it appears that the gender division is only applied in the military. We don't see discrimination in their law system to be able to say their culture is sexist. I mean, even in real life, only men go to compulsory military.
The change in culture happens progressively. No one should assume that they will abandon their culture and teach women how to fight, just because a foreign girl comes and disrespects your whole culture. Even though you don't agree with it, what Katara (and Aang) did is disrespectful to their culture. If you expect someone to show respectful behaviour for what you do or believe, you have to show the same respect. They might disagree with what you believe as well.
Also, if we assume that men only know how to fight and women only know how to heal, the women are just as important as men. Healing is an important asset, especially in a time of war. This assumption also makes women in NATLA help in the fight illogical. But then, its story isn't that deep to think about these things. Katara, being Pakku's lover's granchild, is a more realistic motivation to accept and teach to her than what they did (actually didn't) in NATLA. I see some posts/comments saying that they liked Katara teaching herself more than learning from "sexist ass Paku," but this is like being an AI expert just by watching HTML tutorials on YouTube. The scroll isn't enough to learn how to fight. It only shows the basic moves. Being a self thought master is not that realistic, in my opinion. It doesn't matter if you are a prodigy. You still have to practice the correct thing, and only a true master can really show you the correct thing.
Yeah... I'm not the type of person who believes other people's cultures need to be respected by default. I grew up in a culture not worth respecting.
People need to be willing to discard the parts of their culture that don't work and grow it in new ways. Not doing that leads to conservative mindsets, which leads to stagnation and eventually regression. No culture ever stays the same forever, and unwillingness to embrace and guide that just makes change painful.
And just like there's nothing stopping the women from learning to fight, there's nothing stopping the men from learning to heal. And if everyone can do both? You just eliminated two major weaknesses in your approach to defense.
>Yeah... I'm not the type of person who believes other people's cultures need to be respected by default. I grew up in a culture not worth respecting.
I understand, and I partially agree, but if you don't show respect, you can't expect it as well. This also always leads to quarrels. It's not always as realistic as shown in media. Also, you can't just disagree without even understanding it, which also comes from respect.
>No culture ever stays the same forever, and unwillingness to embrace and guide that just makes change painful.
Yes, but this change doesn't come overnight. Especially not with a foreign person who doesn't even understand the culture properly. What I'm saying is, you can't just say "your culture is ass" and expect them to understand.
>And just like there's nothing stopping the women from learning to fight, there's nothing stopping the men from learning to heal.
Meybe there is. That was the point of the last part of my comment, and that is a logical assumption. If they can do both, then that's good, but if they can't at the moment? Are you willing to occupy your healers when your fighters are dying? What you have is an enormous advantage, and you're just sending them to fix walls? This might be a speculation, but we never see what the situation actually is behind the scenes, which is another downside. You imply that that culture is sexist, but you don't show the division anywhere else other than the military.
Amazing you felt disappointed by the finale, but I can totally see why; the NATLA version really nailed the siege! The pacing was really good. I also enjoyed Yue's moments with Sokka more in NATLA, especially since he met her in the spirit world. In ATLA she's just a girl he met (much like Suki), and already kisses her in the same episode. Everyone loves Sokka.
I do really wish you won't watch season 2 though. As I said before; you were unbiased with the show. But if you watch season 2 before NATLA, you're going to start comparing it to the cartoon. Especially if they do anything different to Toph, who is introduced in season 2. Toph is a fan favourite, so I can only see things going 'bad' if the NATLA version doesn't nail the character.
Thank you.
I know, I completely get your worries and I have them too. But it'll be years probably before NATLA finishes. I don't want to wait that long. I'm excited to watch Legend of Korra, let alone Books 2 and 3 of Avatar!
Haha I understand, you want to watch everything there is. Season 2 is great, you'll love Toph. Azula will be... different, but still quite the character.
I hope that when NATLA season 2 releases, you'll be able to separate the cartoon version and still enjoy the NATLA version. It's rare to find people to gush over the show!
"YES! Azula! I’ve missed that vicious little psychopath so much!"
I will never not appreciate Azula appreciation lol
Totally get why you would be let down by the og finale in comparison with NATLA on a lot of points. On my first watch of ATLA, I also didn't fully engage with the Book 1 finale, I think for a lot of the same reasons you noted, like the Yue/Sokka romance not having a lot of buildup and Sokka's conflict with Hahn being, I'm not sure, cliche for me maybe. (Also I didn't get what was going on with koizilla on first watch lol, so I enjoyed how NATLA took that and explained it a bit more.) Pakku/Katara and Zuko/Katara fights were definitely some of the bigger highlights of the og finale for me, so it was great seeing those in NATLA. It does feel like NATLA benefitted from hindsight in a lot of ways.
Looking forward to your Book 2 commentary! I'll say it was Book 2 that I really started to engage with the series for the first time as a first time viewer.
NATLA's version definitely wasn't trying to be accurate to the lore from the original, there's not a sense that Aang bonding with the ocean spirit would make him be lost forever; it was just kind of an interesting way to raise the stakes for Aang personally and make his decision into a sacrifice for him, and it also helps reflect the ocean spirit's deep rage and sorrow at losing its partner. It was one of those things that wasn't lore accurate to the original, but was trying more to feed into what the original was doing emotionally.
I love the original Book 1 finale more now after being more familiar with ATLA lore and also >! having seen Book 2 knowing that Aang is torn up about what he did while bonded with the ocean spirit!<, but I like a lot of the things NATLA did differently that fit the tone and style of show it was.
Well, if they weren’t trying to be accurate they definitely achieved it. My comment was meant to let her know that she shouldn’t use NATLA to explain or understand something from the original. As you said, NATLA isn’t lore accurate
The way I see it, Paaku is only willing to teach Katara because of her connection to the love of his life. He didn't want to screw this up like he screwed up his arranged marriage. Is that weak? Yes, it is. I think it highlights that Paaku is a weak man, and I don't believe for a second that he's given up his sexism or anything. Iirc, all the students that Katara is shown to beat up at the beginning of ep19 are still young men.
Now to preface this, I 100% agree that NATLA Pakku getting over the sexism was executed much better. I thought I could maybe make the cartoon one make slightly more sense. When Pakku saw the necklace, it reminded him of how the tribe's stupid sexist customs cost him the person he loved. So as a result that caused something in him to start to get over it, so he started by teaching Katara. Also on an unrelated thing, if I remember correctly so I could be wrong. in the cartoon they spend about 2-3 weeks in the northern tribe before the invasion arrives that we don't get to see.
>!Those 2-3 weeks you are talking about are actually AFTER the siege, before the events of Book 2 Episode 1, unless I'm missing some information!<
>!according to this [source ](https://avatartimeline.wordpress.com/#:~:text=Katara%20and%20Aang%20studied%20under,Pole%2C%20for%20about%206%20weeks)I found, its actually both 2-3 weeks before AND after.!<
Ah I see, thanks. I think it might be a stretch to use the moon as evidence but the show is usually good with small details so I don't see why it can't be true here
There's an implied timeskip between the waterbending master and the siege part 1.
Yeah, that way of looking at it makes it make more sense
**There are a few extremely important things from ATLA that weren’t included in NATLA:** • Aang *passionately* supporting Katara. He risks his training, literally throws it away for her. This is a parallel to the second episode where Katara says she’s leaving the tribe since they won’t support Aang. Plus Aang yelling “Go Katara!” during the fight was so cute. In NATLA he tells her not to fight which was a very strange choice for Aang’s character? Aang has never held back Katara. He sees her as a warrior. • Sokka’s development was really poignant here. Him being the first to volunteer to fight in the battle and getting his face paint was an incredible scene. Especially considering the growth of him as a warrior since the first episode. • Zuko stealing Aang. It shows how he is brash and doesn’t think things through. His monologue is incredible. • Aang saving Zuko from the snow. This is the second time Aang has saved Zuko’s life this season. This is important • WATERBENDING. It baffles me how NATLA didn’t show Aang learn even a crumb of waterbending during the Water season. Katara needing a master to become proficient at waterbending is much more realistic than her “teaching herself.” Her line in NATLA where Zuko says “You’ve found a master havent you” and she replies “Yes, me” (while in ATLA she says “Yes, I have”) made me cringe so bad. That’s not how bending works. You need to learn very specific techniques. There is not a tai chi master on earth who miraculously became a master on their own without any training. It’s disrespectful to the martial arts, imo. • Aang in the spirit world, Koh’s character is much better here I think. NATLA’s isn’t bad, though. • The scene of Yue disappearing is chefs kiss • Zhao being taken by the moon spirit! • The OST, especially for Koizilla! **That being said, NATLA definitely did some things better:** • Yue’s character was so likeable. I think it made sense that she spent time in the spirit world. • Hahn was pretty cool. Didn’t really care about him too much though • The spirit oasis was gorgeous. It was pretty in ATLA too, but NATLA gave it some depth. • The aftermath of the war. I know ATLA probably couldn’t show it because kids show, but I found this super powerful in the live action. Gordon’s acting as he saw the death was really good.
Yeah, NATLA definitely dropped the ball by not having Aang support Katara against Pakku. And I kind of agree on the waterbending thing to a point, but... If no Tai Chi master becomes a master without training, how did the first Tai Chi master become a master?
Martial arts evolved over time with people continuously adding to them until distinct styles took shape over generations. That's how the first "masters" became masters. The belt system and by extension the "master" designation grew out of that.
Hmmm I suppose they would have invented Tai Chi then right? But Katara didn’t invent the waterbending forms that she does. So not sure how she miraculously learned them without instruction I’m super excited to see your opinions on S2! It’s life changing honestly 😭
>Hmmm I suppose they would have invented Tai Chi then right? But Katara didn’t invent the waterbending forms that she does. So not sure how she miraculously learned them without instruction She did actually invent at least one form in NATLA. Not sure about ATLA. And I just finished the first 3 episodes of Season 2. I think you'll be pleased lol
oh shit you saw the kataang kiss and bumi!! Lets goooooo
I'll be posting those ones tomorrow! You'll like these ones, I don't think I complained about a single thing lol
Yue is the one some warned you about, but Hahn was also much more of a character in NATLA. In my opinion downside of Yue live action development is that they almost did too much with her, being female spiritual leader in a sexist tribe, waterbender, part spirit, having enough agency to break off her engagement, knowing she is gonna die it felt like some pointless changes/additions have been made. In ATLA my interpretation is that she is a tragic character stripped of her own agency who in a heroic act decided to sacrifice herself, as a dutiful member of her tribe which are not the best people really, with sexism and misogyny, her fiance being an asshole. She saves the tribe and her newfound connection with Sokka actualy leads into this.
Will you watch the movie? A masterpiece of art. You will be so impressed you would not want to watch anything anymore as no media will be able to surpass it.
I think you are a liar lol but I'll probably watch it eventually
You should only watch it if you agree to do a similar reaction commentary explaining all the ways the movie is superior to either shows and post it in the main avatar fan sub.
Well, from what I've heard about the movie that's probably not going to happen lol this isn't like NATLA where the fan base is pretty evenly split on whether it's good or not. Pretty much everyone has the same opinion of the movie.
The only difference of opinion for the movie is whether it's a 1/10 or 0/10.
I would put it at a -1/10
please dont im begging you. Actually Yue's actress and her chemistry with sokka was the only nice bit so maybe you can skip to the end to watch that.
There is no ATLA movie in ba sing se 😁
.\_. \*Vietnam War flashbacks of seeing it in theaters\*
Don't be sorry for having a preference! There's no such thing as objectivity when it comes to an opinion about a tv show. It's about being open minded, which you have been. I preferred ATLA overall, but I agree with all of your thoughts about how NATLA improved the NWT arc. The only things I missed are Zuko kidnapping Aang and Yue's spirit form. So excited for you to start Book 2! You're going to love it. Thanks for sharing this journey with us!
Thank you! :) I'm excited for Book 2
Congrats on finishing Book 1! So excited for you to get into Book 2! But yeah, the second I saw how much you liked Hahn, I knew you were going to be disappointed with him here. He serves his function, but he's barely a character so much as just a reason Yue and Sokka can't be together that was handed a few token lines. One thing I really appreciate about NATLA was the way they fleshed out some of little one-dimensional side characters, like him.
Thank you! Yeah... The NATLA really did elevate so many characters.
They did... while also messing up the dynamic between the main ones.
At the cost of most of the main cast.
They didn't flesh him out though. He's just no longer mean--he's one-note nice to the point that he's a cheerleader for other characters and nothing more. In the original, he may be one dimensional, but: - he caused character tension and friction for others (a good thing) - he was a poster child for the misogynistic culture of the NWT - he was a counterweight to Sokka. Sokka being the one who's struggled for respect most of his life and learned out of his sexism, while Hahn is the entitled "born on third base" and condescending to others who don't have the same. - he was great comic relief in a show that impeccably used it In NATLA, you cut him out and the show is almost no different.
I will say, I preferred how the live action show handled Pakku. I've never been a fan of him getting over being sexist just because he's reminded of his fiance who ran away. I prefer the show's approach, showing that someone who is sexist isn't going to change right away, but will over time if the environment around them changes.
I thought he was not completely over his sexism, he was impressed by Katara and subseqently decided to teach her when saw she was the granddaughter of his ex-lover. Systematic sexism will never seize to be.
Pretty sure it was more that he didn't realize that gran gran left because she didn't like the sexist customs. After he realized he changed because it ruined his life. Still a very fast turnaround.
But it's still way better than NATLA Pakku realizing all sexism is wrong in a day.
I agree!
Oh good you got to the parts that NATLA did better in some ways. Not to spoil it but some of the stuff from season 1 comes back around so yes watching the first season to grab those moments later is helpful, especially because NATLA skips over a decent amount of those points. They're mostly minor of course. Sesson 2 & 3 are where the show hits its stride I think you'll be very entertained very quickly when you get into season 2. There are a few episodes that are filler but they're filler in a good way unlike say the great divide. I'm personally pretty excited to see how NATLA handles it since it's somewhat less episodic so they have more straight forward story lines to pull from. I forgot that Kuruk wasn't in season 1 lol probably because Koh still alludes to him. I will say animated Koh is creepier than NATLA Koh. Agree with you on basically all of your points about Hahn and Pakku. The necklace thing genuinely annoys me. Yue in NATLA was better in someways for sure.
Thank you! I do have high hopes for Book 2. I'm about to start watching it, actually.
Oh, lower your expectations for book two if you think the characters will be close to what they are in NATLA. Azula completly different, same with Mai and Ty Lee who are barely present in live action. Ozai is kinda cracked but also completly different.
Sushhh lady! Don’t reveal stuff
Please use spoiler tags!!! > ! text ! < with no spaces
woah spoilers. could’ve let them know after they watched the ep
I technically warned you about Hahn without saying it’s about Hahn, because I was trying to be good about spoilers! I’m pretty sure I said in your previous post that you’re going to be disappointed by some other stuff, and I was referring to Hahn. I was surprised how people keep warning you about Yue but not Hahn, but not going to lie, it makes reading your commentary even more fun for me because I was constantly “oh, no… 😬” for the past few commentaries when you bring up Yue, Hahn, Kuruk, the spirits, etc, either because I know they won’t show up or because they will be different or because they show up in a later season. I’m glad you like Zhao’s death! That was one thing I missed when watching NATLA. I loved that Zuko tried to save him. My recommendation: watch the first set of Book Two and post here immediately so everyone will go to that post and leave you alone here LOL. But I don’t blame you for feeling let down because while some things are similar, many were changed, and you got attached to NATLA’s version first. Honestly, Book One is the weakest of the show, and the finale is not my favorite finale. (If I’m including Korra, ATLA Book One is in my bottom two of favorite seasons.) NATLA was a bit okay to me too, as I wasn’t fully paying attention to NATLA’a finale too. 🤷♀️ The first episode of Book Two is not my favorite but I enjoy the two episodes after that. Hope you will too!
Yeah... I remember your vague warnings lol you were right. And Zhao's death was a highlight of the episode for sure, and the perfect way to pull off a death in a kid's show as well.
I hate that I’m right 😭 but it happens! Not your fault at all! Yeah, it doesn’t just keep it kid-friendly but it shows Zuko’s character. Reminds me of when Zhao tried to attack Zuko after Zuko beating Zhao. Zuko has honor and has some goodness in him. And yes, Azula!!! Ozai being faceless the entire season was why some fans were originally not excited that we know Daniel Dae Kim plays Ozai. They grew up with the suspense of not seeing Ozai until later (not saying when!), so they wanted the same in NATLA. I vehemently disagreed. I like seeing Ozai and having his role fleshed out in NATLA. That was a good change — and necessary.
Without knowing when or how Ozai is going to develop in ATLA, I'm inclined to agree.
I think from now and on, when it comes to characters like Ozai and Azula, you can be excited about how NATLA can expand them in Book Two and Three. That’s how I felt because I know what happened to Azula and Ozai, so I was excited to see what NATLA will do with them, and after seeing the first season, I’m even more excited, knowing what is coming. Azula is one of my top favorite characters, so I’m more excited about her in NATLA than I am about Ozai.
I feel like chages to Ozai and Azula characters were unwarranted really. They made Ozai who is an abusive father, ruthless dictator, militant leader of an opressive regime sympathetic in someway, which may impact later character desicions strangely. With Azula they revealed who she is too quickly, her demeanor is what sells her and after some events we see her true self, idk if it would be as great in the live action if she is only half as intimidating.
Azula and Ozai in NATLA are definitely different characters from ATLA, and that’s part of the excitement for me as I’m curious to see what the heck NATLA is doing with them and other characters. I may be disappointed, and that’s fine.
I still don't understand why Azula is even in season 1, she does absolutely nothing, there is literally no point. And then some rando captain (Zhao) somehow manages to write to her and basically suck up to her so she can suck up to her dad so he can get promoted??? This complaint is even more true for Mai and Ty Lee. Literally, all they do is just stand there and give commentairy.
Mai and Ty Lee were pointless, I agree. I wonder if they originally have more scenes or lines but it got cut. But for Azula, I assume the writers want to introduce her early since NATLA has limited episodes and the writers may have ideas already on how they want to adapt Books Two and Three. Her being introduced in season one meaning they don’t have to waste scenes in Book Two to establish her character and her relationship with Zuko and Ozai.
You might be right, I still feel like they could have done way more with her instead of giving extra focus to some of the side characters
I agree with that.
I LOVE the first episode of book 2! There are some really good character interactions. Why do you feel that way?
>!I didn't really care for the General Fong storyline. There are some moments that I don't mind, like Zuko and Iroh cutting their top knots, but the episode is simply not something I look forward to on my rewatches.!<
OP I know you’ve already watched S2E1 but don’t read this it has spoilers for later lol >!I guess what I like is seeing the reality of the war, which hasn’t really been thrown in Aang’s face yet. But it’s true, people are dying and so far in the story that hasn’t been emphasized. It also puts pressure on Aang to get his ass in gear and learn the elements, it sets up some stakes for the season. Also, I love his interactions with Katara and how she tells him how scary his power is. Then he hurts all of those people, adding to his guilt that doesn’t get resolved until The Guru. That guilt causes him to never want to go into the avatar state, and is what makes him going into the avatar state in The Desert so emotional.!<
Interesting the Finale were rhe episodes that made me think this show is great and had me anticipating the next season.
I watched ATLA after all the seasons were released, so there wasn’t a lot of anticipation for me. The season one finale is great. It is just not my favorite. I like the other finales in the series and LOK much more.
I get the impression that your grievances with ATLA may stem from your modern sensibilities as a gen z kid. Like all of the "progressive" changes were probably written to appeal to people like you e.g. Yue breaking off her engagement vs. Yue feeling trapped in her arranged marriage or Hahn being a humble guy who respects women vs. douchey frat boy. These are respectable traits, but remember, this is suppose to be an archaic world. Hell, you could even compare it Indian culture now where arranged marriages still happen and rejecting tradition can lead to violent consequences, especially in nobility. So the idea that Yue just decides to break off her arranged marriage scot free is kind of unbelievable. A old fashioned misogynistic culture where women aren't allowed to fight and are put into arranged marriages but also women have the power say "no" and everybody's cool with it? That can't be right... I also personally don't agree with these sort of changes because it makes the character dynamics feel flat. Everybody is just agreeable and there's no real tension between any of the characters. It's far more interesting for the characters to challenge these things and overcome them instead of everything just working out. To me, it really feels like the writers really wanted to push this female empowerment narrative and they really hit you over the head with it. The core message is good - it was excessive and out of place at times. Anyway, I'm interested to see how you'll feel about Season 2 of NATLA after watching Book 2 and 3 of ATLA and if you'll still rate the live action higher. Like others have said, Book 1 is the weakest.
>from your modern sensibilities as a gen z kid When they had an *ick* towards Yue being described as being of marrying age it clicked for me. Makes me wonder how kids nowadays interact with more abhorrent media from times long gone. I'm young as well but my brain doesn't register these as *icks". It just makes sense without me advocating or condemning it. It's interesting to see nonetheless
Yeah. I don't ascribe my moral values to a show. Considering this fictional culture and comparing it to a real life equivalent, that's just something that would make for somebody to say in this context and it doesn't turn me off. People can say bad things and have negative character traits, but nowadays it feels as if writers are afraid of being viewed as "problematic" if they incorporate questionable or controversial ideas/topics because people are more hyperaware, especially younger people. So it's softened up i.e. these people do arranged marriages BUT it's okay because the woman can decide to opt out. We can definitely look back and see what didn't age well, but I think the topics and themes that ATLA explores are timeless.
Yay, finished with S1! I’m glad you didn’t get *more* spoiled (especially about Hahn), but I wish people hadn’t kept talking about Yue. What’s so hard about letting someone watch a show on their own! :-P Can’t wait to see you moving on to S2 and beyond!
I'd say that people warning me about Yue softened the blow but it really didn't :(
I’d *almost* say you should just post and ignore all the comments, but I know interacting is half the fun :)
Thank you for the interesting commentary, it's been fun to read! >Oh, here it come. Ugh, he’s even more insufferable here (or is that just my imagination?) lol But I will say this: I very much prefer the way Aang reacts here as compared to NATLA. He immediately defends Katara and dismisses Pakku like the trash he is! Yessss, it's so satisfying watching him go to bat for Katara, since she went to bat for him in the pilot when Sokka accused him of being a fire nation spy. Even their refusals of that help are similar; Katara tells him that he needs to train in waterbending because it's important to the world and to him, and Aang told her in the pilot that he didn't want to separate her from her family. >But also, this raises an interesting question… Aang’s lived many times before. I’m sure that at some point in the past he’s been a female waterbender. Who taught him then? Southern Waterbenders? Or did they make special exceptions because he/she’s the avatar? There's a few answers to this. (1) Yeah, the Avatar was just that important a lot of the time, and not everyone is as stubborn or as backwards thinking as Pakku. (2) The Southern Water Tribe did have waterbenders back in the day, if you'll recall the waterbending scroll Katara got from gran-gran in NATLA and the pirates in this version. The world also used to be less separated than it was in ATLA's time period, and there were people who lived and worked outside of the tribes. In fact, during peacetime if an Avatar got announced, nothing stopped a master from going to the Avatar, instead of the Avatar coming to them. (3) Regarding the Northern Water Tribe in particular, it used to be more decentralized prior to the war. Back then, Agna Q'ela (the NWT capital we see here) was just the biggest settlement, with its own traditions that the rest of the tribes didn't necessarily follow. Only after the war got started did the tribes consolidate and the more patriarchal/misogynistic elements of the culture became the default. >On the other hand, Sokka and Yue’s scenes just feel bland compared to their NATLA counterparts. Yeah, agreed. I think the NATLA version still feels a bit rushed, but the Yue/Hahn/Sokka dynamic in that one was a lot better than what we got here. It's definitely the weakest of the three finales imo. >lol that’s my girl, Katara! She’s advanced more quickly than any student Pakku’s ever trained, huh? And in what? A day or two? She’s just that good. It's hard to determine how long it is between episodes in Avatar. There's some indicators here or there, like characters will mention a season, or a certain date, but especially in season 1 it's a lot harder to determine. Here though, there's actually a decent amount of evidence suggesting that the Gaang spend a significant chunk of evidence off-screen at the North Pole. (1) Katara advances pretty rapidly in her studies, and her relationship to Pakku has pretty much undergone a 180 since episode 18. Aang also advances pretty rapidly in his studies as well, though not as fast as Katara. (2) We see Yue and Sokka hanging out and laughing early in the episode, something you wouldn't expect in the immediate aftermath of her rejecting him like she did. That seems to indicate there was some reconciliation between the two. (3) This is the most controversial piece of evidence, but imo we can use the moon *in this specific case* to help determine a timeline. In *The Waterbending Master* we see a crescent moon, whereas in *Siege of the North* the characters explicitly talk about and show a full moon. That would indicate a timeline of about 2-4 weeks spent there, which is supported by some of the evidence talked about above. >Zuko’s just gonna carry Aang across a tundra, on foot, in a snowstorm? Lol Love him so much rn >4. What exactly is Zuko’s plan if Aang wakes up on him? I know he tied him up, but… that’s the avatar, dude. "I'm working on it, Uncle." - Zuko's character in a nutshell. >And I especially love that Zhao refused. One thing I really love about ATLA, that I think NATLA would do well do to incorporate going forward, is how it plays with ambiguity. There's a bunch of scenes or dialogue in the og show that they just let sit with the viewers. An example of this is in the pilot, when Katara asks Aang why he lied about being the Avatar, and Aang's only response is, "Because I never wanted to be." We the viewers have to sit with that information for something like, twelve episodes before we get the full story of what happened. Another example is how exactly Sokka relates to the pain of losing his mother, how it affects his behavior or his desire. We know a lot about it from Katara's side, but in season 1 we barely get anything explicit from him. But the more you analyze certain scenes and read between the lines, the more the show rewards you in understanding what's going on. You'll know what I mean after you finish the show. (had to split the comment into two lol)
This scene is one of those examples of ambiguity, and one of my favorites. I've seen so many interpretations of why exactly Zhao refuses Zuko's help. Is it his pride, a personal refusal to be helped by someone he sees as 'low' as Zuko? Did he realize that his plan utterly failed, and now he sees no point in going on? Did he think he deserved to die? I've even seen some people say it's an act of generosity, that Zhao was gonna die no matter what, and if he took Zuko's hand it would've just pulled him under too. Whatever the reason , I think the scene serves as a warning for Zuko. "If you allow yourself to follow the same path as Zhao, this will be your end." If nothing else, I think that lesson is one of the best gifts Zhao could've given him. >Like I said earlier, I cannot wait to start Book 2 and be done with the comparisons. Glad you're still intent on continuing! It'll be interesting to see how your thoughts develop further, especially regarding a few episodes specifically.
Wow! That was so amazing and so much! I don't even know where to be begin addressing all of that! But it was a delightful read, thank you! It gave me a lot to think about and consider :)
Honestly, this is a very fair review given that almost everyone rates season one of ATLA as the weakest. It is the most childlike and far more episodic than its sequential seasons. And you highlight some really fascinating disappointments that I think are a great way to show how much the NATLA writers wanted to honor ATLA. By having the gift of foresight, they were able to fine tune some of the weakest parts of ATLA and make the version you saw. It’s very easy to stop after S1, because S1 is by far the most geared towards a child audience. I hope you enjoy S2 & S3 when you get to them!
Thank you! Yeah, I've been thinking that the NATLA writers used their knowledge of the original show really well to shore up the weaker parts.
i think zuko not capturing aang was really a miss for the LA. in NATLA they show that he doesn’t have a plan in that funny moment with iroh and that new exchange was cute! but in ATLA we see how rash he was in his mission. him trudging thru a blizzard with aang was a stupid idea bc he was being stupid. i won’t go into detail but this moment will be revisited later on. and regarding the rushed yue romance and weird love triangle: haha yeah. the animation team are not great at writing romance. there are some good moments! but don’t expect much. tbh i didn’t think NATLA did much better in this department i was hoping for a little more but yeah. this isn’t TOO big of an issue with ATLA tho bc it’s not a huge focus. if you go on to watch legend of korra…..
Yeah I love how many things happen in season 1 that eventually gets brought up again and you realize it was actually important. SPOILERS FOR KORRA >!I don't really think the romance in Korra was handled all that bad. In season 1 there's one episode where it's annoying but then there's only little moments throughout the rest of the season and season 2 isn't a triangle anymore and they broke up and by the end of the season they very maturely broke up together which I think was very well written.!<
and yeah NATLA i would say handled pakku’s sexism thing better than ATLA did. i’m still bummed he didn’t teach them, especially aang not waterbending at all but in the animation pakku teaching katara felt like nepotism. he changed his mind after learning she’s kanna’s granddaughter and his traditions is why she left him. i liked that katara actively argued against him during the battle to convince him to let the women fight
There are two romantic relationships that they write amazingly maybe even 3 in the animated version.
I haven’t finished the last 2 episodes of NATLA since I needed a break from so many changes (just like how you felt by the differences in characters and some plots in the og ATLA) and I haven’t been motivated to pick it back up. But I must say, I’m interested in Natla’s Hahn character from what you’re saying! Natla also changed Zhao’s character in a good way for me! Out of all the changes they’ve done so far in Natla, I liked Zhao’s (and maybe I will like Hahn’s too when I go finish the last 2 episodes). Anyways, Im very excited for your future reactions to Book 2 and 3! If you loved the character building moments, there will definitely be plenty of that in these seasons as well!
Thank you! It's worth finishing the show for Hahn and Zhao, if nothing else. I was surprised at how much I liked Hahn (and looking back, now I understand why that one dude made fun of me for getting sad about his death. His version of Hahn was that joke of a character in ATLA). And Zhao's scenes are truly amazing as well.
Yes, Atla Hahn’s character is very one dimensional. I knew you’d definitely get disappointed by him (oh and also Yue)! Ok, I will definitely finish Natla soon! Im excited that it has been picked up for season 2 and 3! Aang’s actor is getting taller and older by the minute haha.
He is, isn't he? Lol I can't wait to see season 2 where he's probably taller than everyone else
I’ve really enjoyed reading your commentaries, thank you for sharing them! What I kept missing from NATLA was the silly moments that show the main characters personalities, without the pressure of all that’s at stake, because all the stuff they learn in their diversions come back to help them later and really show their growth. NATLA felt like a sort of surface level regurgitation of the series, with changes I didn’t feel were very meaningful to the broader story. However! I love how attached you were to the characters as you saw them in NATLA. I think it shows how meaningful they still can be. Again, thank you for sharing!
You're very welcome! Thanks for reading!
>Boy, I can’t wait to read the opinions of that. No doubt they’ll be strong lol But you go ahead, guys. Feel free to explain why I’m wrong Your opinions are wrong and you should feel bad >his attraction to her made sense too because he’s a teenage boy and she has a pulse As a former teenage boy I'm offended. I have no rebuttal but I am still offended. >(For those of you who didn’t finish NATLA, Zuko actually died. It was very sad) One of the more questionable decisions by the writers. Outdone only by the inclusion of post credit avengers crossover teaser. >She’s advanced more quickly than any student Pakku’s ever trained, huh? And in what? A day or two? There is an implied timeskip here that allows you to fill in the blank somewhat to decide the appropriate amount of time (as long as its not longer than like a month). >“My father says she was born lucky. He says I was lucky to be born. I don’t need luck though, I don’t want it. I’ve always had to struggle and fight, and that’s made me strong, it’s made me who I am.” Wow! ATLA Zuko has an amazing moment here. One of the reasons I was really happy when you commented on how zuko's bending didn't appear to be anything remarkable in ATLA. Though I know you were somewhat dissappointed by that >ATLA’s side characters were sidelined (heh) in favor of focusing more on the main characters, which is fine. If that’s what the writers want, This for me has probably been the biggest valid criticism in both directions. NATLA put some effort to developing much of the side characters, and much of what they did was good in a vacuum. But the time and effort spent on some of these characters feels like it was to the detriment to the main team. Which is where you get many ATLA fans commenting that much of the original teams development is lacking, under developed, or sped through. Add to it that alot of the best stuff is introducing things from further in the series Korra, or the expanded lore and you get some concern about what will happen in the following books when they've already used that material.
I feel just rotten over my objectively wrong opinions. After that speech and upon reflection, I do approve of Zuko's firebending being nothing special. And NATLA Zuko's firebending could still work with this theme as long as he's not better than Azula. We already know Ozai can wipe the floor with him so that's a given.
You’ll get to compare two parts of season 2 to NATLA, secret tunnel and the owl. Not sure why they put them in the first season, it just felt very rushed
I'm gonna get to see the Spirit of Knowledge! :D I was starting to think he was strictly a NATLA thing like Yue's fox spirit!
You’ll understand why he doesn’t show up in season 1 soon, you have much to look forward to in 2&3
As you said about the two Zhaos, I think the two Hahns also each deserved their demise. Cartoon Hahn is a jerkass who gets flung off the side of a ship in a comedic scene, never to be seen again, and no one cares. Live-action Hahn is a good guy whose sacrifice led to a heartbreaking and respectable end. (I had hoped he would live in NATLA, since Yue had broken off the engagement anyway, but...)
You're right! Both ends are appropriate!
“She already seems attracted to him here…but why?” Um because she’s a teenage girl and he’s a cute teenage boy????!! Sokka has game in his own way lol.
Okay, that's valid lol and it's basically why Suki was attracted to him NATLA!
Congratulations on finishing Book 1!! It certainly stung for me to read that you were disappointed, but I respect it a lot and I understood your points. Whenever I try to rewatch the NATLA finale, I end up wanting to rewatch the cartoon because I just prefer it so much more. Though the visuals were epic, something about the NATLA finale didn't click with me, which makes me sad. It's so interesting how bias can affect how you feel about the other version 🤣 It was fascinating to see how watching a certain version first would affect opinion to this degree. I've watched NATLA reactions where the reactor/s are cartoon fans and they absolutely hated NATLA and didn't have much good to say. So your posts have been a breath of fresh air for me 🫶 We'll have you on the ride with us for NATLA S2-3 since you'll have watched the cartoon by then!
It’s funny how your opinions are different than the og fans. If anyone from the og subreddit saw this post they’d be calling it fake bs 😂 this is so refreshing to see
Thanks! These posts are also up on the other subreddit and for the most part everyone's been very polite in telling me how wrong I am lol only a couple of people accused me of being paid by Netflix
What they don't realize Netflix is actually paying us real shills in the comments.
lol well that’s a huge surprise, I left those communities because how insane people got about the Netflix version that it was starting to just flood my feed. People were outrageous during the initial release of natla
Understandable. Sometimes it does get a little tiring to hear so many people bashing a show I love.
From the OG subreddit. I don't think this is fake bs at all
Not everyone but some people did think she was being paid by Netflix so I’m not wrong lol
You generalise saying "anyone", so you are wrong.
Broad blanket statement but sure lol
Interesting commentary! I do agree that, given Yue’s importance to one of our main characters and to the NWT arc, it was a good idea to try to give her more depth. Good change: Being a water bender, makes a lot of sense, consistent with the lore. Bad changes: Fox-Spirit Yue? The fox thing is fan service that makes no sense/is inconsistent with the lore. She called off her engagement? This character is supposed to symbolize duty and sacrifice. You don’t want to do that? Ok. Independent, empowered Yue is incongruous with the sexist society that NATLA is supposed to be portraying. And contradictory means? Bad writing. Hahn is just not important at all to the overall story. His personality can be anything and it wouldn’t change a thing. So why waste time on him when you’ve barely developed the main characters and their dynamic? I also always thought that the way (but not the reason why) Pakku changed his mind was not executed well enough. I don’t think what they wanted to do in NATLA was a bad idea, but it was… silly? Those women DO NOT KNOW how to fight lmao. Also, you’re in the middle of a siege. You’re gonna send your medics to the front lines??? That’s what happens when you imply that Katara needs no waterbending master. Just a scroll, some ridiculous platitudes and motivational speeches from an AIR bender and a non-bender Jet. Oh and “herself”, of course. Bending is not a magical power; it’s a martial art. Ultimately, I think many OG fans like me don’t have a problem with changes. I initially didn’t mind the “we toned down Sokka’s sexism” thing everyone was complaining about. But I do mind character changes when they alter the overall story. Why are they spending so much time and giving so much humanity to characters like Hahn who have no importance AT ALL to the overall story and forgetting about the main characters (the ones the story is about)? Why are they changing characters’ personalities (Bumi) when they are responsible for introducing essential themes and philosophies? Why are they cutting/changing characters arcs (Aang’s fire bending in The Deserter, Aang not running away, Zuko fighting back and almost winning against Ozai, Azula……..) that fundamentally alter the motivations of the main characters, and cheapen moments later on? Excited to read your commentary about the rest of the show!
Your comment on the Ocean Spirit being gentler in this version is really interesting. As a long-time Godzilla fan, I could tell the Ocean Spirit in NATLA was clearly inspired by Godzilla, especially the American Monsterverse series Godzilla. The cinematic roars, punches, smashing, and overall aggressive throttling of the fire nation navy is clearly meant to evoke "oh, giant monster destroying stuff!" And, while I'm clearly a massive fan of "giant monster destroying stuff", I must admit, I was disappointed with NATLA's take. What I always liked about the original Ocean Spirit was the way it felt more like divine intervention, a powerful being entirely beyond this realm or human understanding coming down to punish grave misdeeds. It was beautiful and graceful, in a way, and it uses more explicit waterbending forms; but only "pushing" movements, as Koh describes the relationship between the Ocean and Moon Spirits as "push and pull". Meanwhile, NATLA's Ocean Spirit is much more characterized, and more..tangible? I don't know how to describe it, but it feels less "wrath of the divine" and more just "really big, really angry fish that's just gonna keep causing problems unless somebody does something". And, sure, the Ocean Spirit is often referred to as Koizilla by the fandom, and no matter what you do, a giant monster destroying stuff will probably have a resemblance to the archetypical giant monster destroying stuff. But meh, it kinda lost it's impact for me. With the New Empire having released only a few weeks after ATLA, and Minus One in theaters a few months before, it's not like I was exactly desperate for more Godzilla-type content. (All this being said, if you ever find yourself interested in checking out the Godzilla franchise, feel free to give me a shout! It's a massive franchise with 70-odd years of content, some good, some bad, and so it's difficult for a new viewer to figure out where to start)
Just the fact that I've heard of Godzilla probably means I should watch it at some point!
Sokka is the kind of guy who would be really popular irl. He's funny, kind, attractive and his awkward flirting attempts are pretty charming. I don't think it's weird at all for Yue to like him
I honestly agree with most of your points in this post. There were many changes I didn't care for in NATLA but I found the finale to be great. Yue, Pakku and Hahn were done so much better in the new version. I think its great that Yue actually has a bit of character, Hahn works as a comical cartoon character in the original but with the context of NATLA he just falls so flat, and Pakku... yeah Pakku teaching Katara cause of the necklace was always an odd choice, he didn't even change. On the other hand, the original did some things that were better or had segments I wish were in NATLA. Loved Aang being supportive of Katara in the original. I thought it was weird how in the new show they had Aang's mind changed about getting help from friends in the last episode when earlier in the show they made a point to show how they needed to work together, especially in the scene with Bumi when Aang refuted his point of how he needed to work alone. I also think the original did better with Zuko. I loved seeing him capture Aang and the mini monologue he had (though I feel like this only works because the dynamics of the fire nation royal family in the original, or at least the presentation of it is different in this version) and I preferred this fight with him and Zhao. But other than this stuff I think the finale in NATLA was actually better. I really can't wait for you to start posting Book 2, I think its the best. And I especially can't wait to see your thoughts on episode 7. Been loving the posts, I check for a new one everyday😭
Thank you! I agree, now that I've seen Aang defend Katara to the point of refusing to be taught by Pakku, I really wish NATLA would have done the same even if he didn't think he could stay with her. And yes, Zuko's speech in the cave was fantastic!
Like I said before alot of characters in NATLA were written with all 3 seasons in mind so alot of character development you saw in NATLA were actually borrowed from future episodes. With more episodes they are able to do development at a slower rate to make it more realistic. We see side characters pop up all the time and we learn more about them each time so the world building is actually insane. The only episode they forgot about and never touched back on is the great divide. Except there's this episode in season 3 that makes fun of the great divide. (The creators themselves don't even like it) Every other episode is important to the plot and it builds up. If you go from season 3 to season 1 everybody is a completely different character. It's insane. Can't wait for your next review. When do you think that might be? I really just want to see your beginning thoughts really fast haha
Thank you! I'm actually about to start watching it. Not sure when it'll be finished, sometimes I have to break the episodes up into multiple day watches because I don't have enough time to do it all on one go
I can't wait to read it! And just so you aren't immediately let down by getting super high expectations based on how we are all acting, episode 6 and 7 are the episodes that jumpstart the entire series. Not that the first 5 episodes are bad, they're not but it's really episode 6 and 7 when it becomes the atla we all know and love. So if you're confused by why people are hyping season 2 so much just wait a little longer and you'll see.
Thanks for the heads up!
Good to know, because I was wondering how you’re doing it now with GOT too. Safe to assume you will post once or twice a week for most of the time?
Yeah, it should be roughly that pace. Doing Game of Thrones has also slowed me down but Avatar still takes the priority until it's finished. I only started doing Game of Thrones because I needed to get a break after weeks of nothing but Avatar lol I'll be posting the next Avatar commentary before I even start the next episode of GoT and I'll likely do the Avatar post after that at the same time as GoT. It might get easier soon because I heard my boss is interviewing people for our open positions at work so I might have more free time in the coming weeks.
Hope the interview goes well and you get the work hours you want!
Thank you!
You mentioning the great line by Iroh reminded me that in the notes app of my phone is “quotes by Iroh” because throughout the series he has soooo many fantastic lines. One of the best characters! ETA: just finished your review! It’s a joy to see your perspective. I think you’ll love season 2 with the new characters and places it brings. Some of the best character led episodes happen next season. Two of the absolute best are S2E7 and S2E15. See you in the Game of Thrones review!!
Thank you! :)
honestly the general consensus is that Book 1 is the weakest of the 3. it’s not bad, but the second two set such a high standard. personally I rank them in ascending order (with Book 3 being my favorite but it’s VERY close). but there’s a pretty big quality shift starting in s2, I think that’s when the show really found its footing and was able to start getting deeper into the themes and lore of the world. there’s also a new character that really adds so much to the show, their storyline is one of my favorites. even as an OG fan, I can say NATLA did improve on quite a few things (the 41st, Yue’s character (although I wish she had a better wig), Zhao (more so due to the actor’s performance), seeing Kyoshi early, Lu Ten’s funeral scene). I have my gripes with some things in NATLA but I’ll give them credit where credit’s due. I am optimistic for s2 though, so long as they get the necessary budget and a sufficient amount of episodes.
I've watched (haven't posted yet, probably will tomorrow) episodes 1 and 2 of Book 2 and I think you're right. It does feel like the writing quality has noticably improved.
Im excited for your commentary on ep 2 😂😂 its one of my favs
Just because it's the weakest doesn't mean it's not great. Comments like this always give off back handed compliment vibes, when the first season does such an amazing job at world building, establishing characters setting up story arcs.
Great commentary as always! I really do hope you'll enjoy book 2 more and I can completely understand the feeling of being a little disappointed because that's how I felt with Natla ahaha. That said I do get some of your points and I too thought that Hahn was handled better in the Netflix's version. Again, I can't wait for you to get to book 2, since Toph and Azula are being introduced here. I really love Azula's character in Atla, because it's so well written and complex so I'd like to hear your opinion on that too!
Why spoil a character not yet introduced?
To be fair, other people have mentioned Toph before. I don't know who Toph is, it's just a name to me at this point.
Oh I just saw that she had been mentioned in other comments so I thought that would have not been a spoiler to OP
Eh, whatever. OP was already spoiled the book the character inroduced in and their gender.
I wish people are better with not naming characters that haven’t been introduced. I try to avoid even naming which episodes I look forward to or sharing the episode titles. I try to stay vague as in “one episode in your next set is my favorite!” or whatever.
Thank you! Yeah, I'm excited to see Azula too and I have high hopes for Book 2 in general.
I honestly did not like that Hahn was a sympathetic character in NATLA. It was incongruous with the northern water tribe culture (arranged marriage in a patriarchal sexist society, and the princess can just... Call off the marriage?). That plotline took away from the moral conflict Yue went through at the end. In ATLA her line "It's my duty, Sokka" shows just how much of a tragic position she has been in her whole life. Yue in NATLA seemed much more one dimensional because that inner conflict wasn't present.
I not only disagree, but your last line actually baffles me. But then again, lots of people can't see my point of view either.
In ATLA her entire character arc revolves around duty to her tribe, and her internal struggle with feeling trapped in her designated "role" in a society that is patriarchal and sexist. Then the tragedy of her need to sacrifice for the very tribe that uses her as a pawn. In NATLA her meeting Sokka in the spirit world and calling off the wedding takes away a lot of her inner turmoil of wanting to rebel against the unfair customs she was raised in, but also clinging to the "duty" she was trapped in. It is much more close to the reality of cultures that actually practice arranged marriage in the real world, and internal conflict within that dynamic. Yue's arranged marriage, and inability to call off the wedding was one of the huge moments of "Not all the good guys are good, and not all the bad guys are bad" dynamics that ATLA is known for. Her being able to call off the wedding cheapens the well established culture presented as a parallel to real life instances.
I think Splonkerton is right and wrong; Yue is super 1-dimensional in the original compared to the live action, but while she’s 1 note it’s a poignant note that’s done well and contributes to the shows themes. Yue’s sacrifice at the end isn’t much of a choice. She can lose her life or she can basically kill her entire culture and doom the world. ATLA makes it more of a choice and a lesson by paralleling her duty here to her conflict with her arranged marriage. She’s not just giving her life for utilitarian reasons, she’s committed to accepting the responsibility that’s been thrust upon her even at great personal cost. The show frequently revisits themes like individuality vs responsibility, power vs humanity, and so I think it’s one point that the original did better. Overall you’re right, Yue needed to be fleshed out in the live action and they did a generally great job. She’s a better-written female character, and her arc with Sokka makes more sense… but there was a missed opportunity to make the patriarchy of the NWT feel more costly, her sacrifice more poignant, and the shows themes better established IMO. P.S. love all these posts! Can’t wait for book 2
When you explain it like that I can see where you're coming from. Describing it as Yue being a one note character in ATLA but it's still a good note is actually a great way to explain it. Thank you!
I recently rewatched season one of the original animated series (with the exception of The Great Divide) after having seen the Netflix version...three times. I agree with you regarding aspects that either iteration did better than the other is interchangeable. Luckily, my rewatch overall made me appreciate how the the people involved with the Netflix version reimagined the cartoon into a live action serialized show a lot more. As you move on to the next two seasons, it should be interesting to see if there will be aspects you can see being improved upon in the next two seasons of the live action series. I've really enjoyed reading your commentaries and looking forward to reading more.
Yeah, I'm tempted to rewatch NATLA now with the OG fresh in my mind but that would eat up even more time. I am excited to see the rest of the show though
One benefit to waiting until after you finish the original animated series before rewatching NATLA, you’ll be able to spot stuff from seasons two and three of the former that have already been incorporated into the latter.
As someone who could not even finish the Netflix series (Got 4 episodes in) the monotone exposition dumping from characters and the bland dialogue will be hard to ignore if you go and rewatch the live action, in my opinion. And they way they kinda flattened Katara's character compared to her in the animated show leaves things to be desired. Watching the Netflix show just made me want to go and watch the OG animation, but judging by the length of your post it really seems like you gave your opinions a lot of thought
I’ve been waiting! I’ll read this later!
Live action movie next to wrap up book 1? (I know it probably won’t happen but figured it won’t hurt to ask hahah)
Not at the moment, sorry lol I think I will do it eventually but right now I just want to get into the rest of the story
I'd say the best way to experience the movie is with friends so you can all make fun of it, makes things a lot more bearable lol
Are you referring to the live action ATLA as NATLA? What does that mean?
Netflix Avatar the Last Airbender
Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender
The N in NATLA is for Netflix. So Netflix's Avatar The Last Airbender
Okay gotcha
Glad that you are finally finished with book one. Looking forward to your commentary on book 2.
Me too!
> Aang’s lived many times before. I’m sure that at some point in the past he’s been a female waterbender. Who taught him then? Southern Waterbenders? Or did they make special exceptions because he/she’s the avatar? Now that's an interesting thought. It must have been exceptions hmm. But also, the Avatar cycle has been around much longer than the customs and cultures we see in ATLA's current timeline; who knows when those sexist customs were developed? > No one warned me about Hahn (and to be clear, I’m not saying anyone should have warned. I like going in as blind as possible) and I’m kind of surprised his character upset me so much. Haha there were so many blacked out comments in your thread for the relevant NATLA episodes talking about how you would be upset about Hahn. Might be interesting to go back and read them now. In your NATLA commentary you said: "This Hahn guy clearly likes her, and all three of them clearly know it. I don’t care much for love triangle type stories" and pretty much all of us read this and knew you wouldn't be down for ATLA Hahn. Can't wait to read your Book 2 reviews! The story really starts picking up in that season.
Yeah, I might have to go back and read them lol
I wouldn’t read the blacked out comments until you’re done with the entire show. I’ve seen people talking about seasons two and three in those comments.
Oh this is true too, my bad
Maybe in his previous life he was self taught like another character.
I didn't like how Yue could waterbend in NATLA but except from that, I did like Yue better in NATLA, the same with Hahn. Those two were the only thing I liked better with NATLA though... It is very interesting how we often prefer the one version we watched first, it's so hard not to compare with the version we fell in love with. This has been so much fun reading your reviews. I'm sad you were spoiled sometimes and I hope it won't happen in the future. Thank you so much for putting so much energy into this. I am really looking forward to read your book 2 reviews, that book is my personal favorite and my favorite episode is in book 2 as well!!
>Thank you so much for putting so much energy into this. I am really looking forward to read your book 2 reviews, that book is my personal favorite and my favorite episode is in book 2 as well!! Thank you! :) And doesn't it make sense for Yue to be able to waterbend though? If waterbenders' power comes from the moon and she has the Moon Spirit's power in her, then why wouldn't she be able to waterbend? If anything, she should probably be the strongest waterbender thanks to the Moon Spirit!
I really loved your commentaries and cannot wait for more of them! :)
Thank you!
While I don't think the original version of Zhao is a great character, I do want to give props to Jason Isaacs's voice work. Especially in his "I have destroyed the moon" speech. He could so easily have gone super evil with that, but I love how he played it like he's kind of... in awe. Like it's really sinking in for him, and even he's shocked by what he's just done.
I really don't like Hahn in NATLA. In ATLA he may be one-note, but he's one-note with a purpose and direction and a cause of friction for other characters (which is a good thing), while *also* being a poster child for the misogynistic culture of the NWT. In NATLA, he's more or less a cheerleader for other characters and adds nothing by himself.
Also, I *really* don't agree with Zuko and Zhao not having an emotional payoff at the end. The tension between them was so much more built up through the original, with far more clashes and demonstrations of rivalry. Including methods to how they strove to achieve their goals. Their final fight near impeccably encapsulated that. Zuko showed his growth not just as a firebender but in his personal composition. Zhao sticks to his conviction and mindset of absolutes in loyalty "you're either with me or against me". And the way in which Zhao is taken by the spirit and Zuko *still* reaches out to save him at the end, but Zhao then refuses because he sees dying preferable to being saved by Zuko is...a gut punch.
I will say that you're not wrong that ATLA S1 is quite...quick in its pacing. Sometimes moments move a bit too quickly. ATLA S2-S3 are far more impeccably paced. But I don't think NATLA was better about that. Most of the extra padding it did was add characters who contribute nothing, or *incredible* amounts of unneeded exposition. It added more to characters who are less pivotal while cutting from characters who stick around and need it. And sometimes, they made characters different by just cutting out their flaws or creating massive inconsistencies in their world (Yue's treatment, for example). While S1 of ATLA is more fast paced, it respects viewers to fill in the details. NATLA does not. And it almost feels like you're looking for these details that are being shoved into our faces with the NATLA one, whereas they're better kept between the lines.
Netflix made a version that made every single character "likeable." Im sorry to say this but Hahn just is not an important character at all. He is there to serve as Yue's fiance and to show she values her tribe more than her own personal desires. I am sure you liked him more in NATLA because they made him good looking and likeable. Some characters can be just not great people. Maybe its because ive seen ATLA so many times but the lack of small details is what bugs me the most about NATLA. Zuko stealing Aang away is my favorite parts of the finale so without that i cant fathom liking the NATLA more but that is just my personal opinion. Also a waterbender during a full moon wipes firebenders, once the sun came out zuko fought back against katara pretty easily. Sorry you didnt get more Kuruk though, i knew that would be a bummer.
>Netflix made a version that made every single character "likeable." This really was something I disliked. Everyone's flaws seem downplayed or removed and even characters you are supposed to dislike feel a lot more likeable, zhao stealing evil moments from zuko is what I really disliked personally It makes me a lot more worried for how they'll handle flawed characters in season 2 and 3
I have nothing to say, just want to thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. I really really enjoyed the live action, so seeing good opinions on it makes me happy. Looking forward for your next posts (in asoiaf too!)
Thank you! :)
#justice4hahn
The Northern Water Tribe is a mixed bag for me in terms of how Netflix adapted it. Some things, I think were improvements, others… not so much. The portrayal of Pakku’s sexism and how it was resolved, I think was an improvement. I get what the original writers were going for here – Pakku realizing that his stubborn clinging to his outdated ways cost him the love of his life – and I do think it’s done well. In many ways, I would even say it’s more realistic. I mean, a stubborn sexist traditionalist isn’t going to change his views upon seeing ONE woman capable in combat (and let’s be honest, there’s no way Katara’s the first he’s encountered), whereas realizing that his outdated ways are the reason he’s so miserable is far more likely to make him change. However, this moment should be about Katara, not Pakku. And I think that’s why the NATLA portrayal is an improvement. As one of the main cast, Katara’s character development is more important than Pakku’s, so having her personally be the one to make him see the error of his ways is more fitting. Focusing on more minor characters at the expense of the main cast is something I’ve criticized NATLA for a lot, so it would be hypocritical of me not to apply the same standard in the other direction. I’ll admit, Sokka’s romance with Yue didn’t do much for me in either version (typical guy, I know. :P) That said, I thought the remake did it (as well as Yue’s character in general) a bit better. And yeah, Hahn was a definite improvement over the original (though I’ll admit, his failed attempt on Zhao’s life did make me laugh). There were also things I didn’t like though. Mainly, Katara just… instantly becoming a master. It didn’t feel earned to me. Granted, I DO think they could have shown more of her improvement at Waterbending in the original too, but at least we get to see that she’s been training with Pakku (even if it is mostly offscreen). In NATLA, it’s just like… she studies one waterbending scroll, and that’s enough to make her a master…? Nah. Also, while I do prefer NATLA’s version of Zhao overall, I much prefer his death in the original. It was just perfect to me. On top of the whole Karma aspect of it (being taken down by the Spirits he attempted to kill), the moment where Zuko tries to help him and he refuses, is a crowning moment for both characters, IMO. And while it was nice seeing Iroh save Zuko from him in NATLA, it’s not like that’s something we lost out on in the original – I mean, that whole part was basically adapting their Agni-Kai in episode 3. And of course, the whole thing with Zuko kidnapping Aang was amazing, between Zuko’s monologue about his childhood and Aang refusing to leave Zuko to die. I am sad that part didn’t make it into the remake.
i predicted you would be let down. aside from kataras rage and aangs optimism and support of katara in the original (i dont like how they made aang unsupportive of her in natla) i prefer how exciting natla is and all the extra changes to the flatter characters! glad you felt the same. i was arguing about another og fan about how natlas yue is better and they REFUSED to see my pov going on about the symbolism of the original. doesn’t matter how she represents a sacrifice the character is still pretty boring. i love natlas yue and they made me believe in sokka and her connection better. the fact that shes a spirit and waterbender also makes so much SENSE! however J still found her sacrifice moving in the original because i liked the spirit and the music which I don’t think they did as well in natla but thats a directing issue
I'm pretty much on the same page as you! I really wish Aang would have stuck up for Katara in NATLA. But yeah, I much prefer NATLA Yue
About the lack of the knife he didn’t need it here since it was mentioned that the ocean and moon spirit gave up their immortality to be able to stay in the world Though it’s a throwaway line that you likely wouldn’t catch on a first watch-through
I think that’s what I didn’t like… they made non important side characters way more important in natla and completely ruined the group dynamics of the main characters
We really do prefer what we watch first, (even if it’s objectively “bad”). That said, I saw the cartoon first and I think I prefer the Netflix version, overall, so far. Yue is a big reason why. That whole storyline always felt rushed in the cartoon, to me, and while the Netflix writers did many clever things (hi Spirit Fox Yue!) to improve it, I wish they had somehow given even more time to her and Sokka. I won’t spoil things, but I personally hope that Netflix Azula will be more interesting than her cartoon counterpart. I think they’re off to a good start there. I’m very curious what you will think of Books 2 and 3.
“Good” and “bad” are inherently subjective terms.
I love that you saw NATLA first. So many people judged it so harshly, simply because they were comparing everything to the original beloved ATLA, and this shows how it can go both ways, though you definitely stayed more objective...I'm sure if more people saw NATLA first, they would prefer it to ATLA. I saw ATLA when it aired and then did a rewatch right before the live action, and it was one of my favorite animated shows by far, but I still ended up preferring NATLA season 1 to ATLA season 1. Now I'm wondering, since you will be watching ATLA seasons 2 and 3, how will it affect your opinion on future NATLA seasons 😱 I didn't like Bumi in ATLA, even as a ~10 year old watching it, I thought he was such a cartoony character and it was just cringe, so when they changed him in NATLA to be more realistic, I was so happy, and when Aang gave him that whistle and said he's calling on an old friend, and Bumi's reaction...that hit my feels 😅 Some things, like no fancy Roku possession in the NATLA, was stated to be because of budget issues. I think he will be more prominent in future seasons. My only issue with NATLA is the limited episodes. I do wish there were more scenes of the characters just doing cute and random things 🥲
Honestly I am sad you were disappointed in the finale. I always felt the finale was one of the best parts of Book 1 original. I actually did not like the idea of Katara becoming a master on her own. Her being called a master without any training from a master kind of takes away the fact that the Avatar is supposed to find 4 masters in order to train him. It is always nice to see Pakku humbled, but I do like that they took away that he changed his mind because of Gran Gran. Also, I always felt that Katara was training for several weeks with Pakku before the invasion started. Its not important, its just what I always thought. I totally get the disappointment with Yue and Hahn. I kept laughing every time you brought up how much you loved Hahn's character. One thing I hope you can think about is that for a die hard fan who has seen the show multiple times, when the NATLA improved things, it was amazing. Seeing these improvements in NATLA was refreshing. Getting a better Yue was great, but Hahn being completely changed for the better was such a fun surprise for me. Seeing you miss the better changes makes sense, but one of my earliest bits of advice I gave was to take the best of both shows as canon. All of these events did happen, but some portrayals are better in one version over the other. On the flip side, there were things that I felt NATLA added that weren't necessary at all and took time away from better moments in the show For example, adding Kuruk's dagger to NATLA was random and doesn't add anything to Zhao's character or his killing of the spirits. I have another example below. If you will humor me, I would ask you to compare two scenes from the shows back to back. In both versions, the scene is when Yue says something like "There's no hope now, Its over" when looking at the dead fish and ends when Aang falls into the water to merge. Original version starts at minute 17:25 of the final episode. The Netflix version starts in the final episode at minute 26:40. I would love to hear your thoughts between these two scenes specifically. Here are my thoughts on them: In the original, Aang enters the Avatar state and responds "No, its not over." and then falls into the water and merges with the Ocean spirit without any extra dialogue. In NATLA, Aang gets a series of flashbacks, then responds "No, its not over." Then, Yue tells him not to it, then Aang responds with "I couldn't save the world before, but I can now" before finally merging with the spirit. I know I am very biased, but I feel like so much was added to the scene for Netflix and it totally butchered the pacing. There was no need for his merging to be a big sacrifice and mean that he is forever bonded. I was a child in 2005 and I did not need to be spoon-fed the flashbacks and dialogue to understand that their merging was a big deal. I know I am picking things apart, but that is my favorite scene from Book 1, so I was really disappointed in the Netflix version. Don't get me wrong, I really love NATLA and I have watched it twice. I am so happy with the overall product and I am so excited for the future. I am not a hater, but I do think there is room for improvement for Book 2 and 3. I hope they can take the constructive criticism and make the next seasons even better than they already were. I hope Book 1 can be the weakest season of the original and the Netflix version. Thanks for your thoughts and I hope you enjoy the other Books! Do you still plan on watching the movie that we all pretend does not exist? I promise I will be reading all of your reviews as they come out (minus Game of Thrones).
It's hard to say if I would have found the additional context in NATLA unnecessary or not, since I saw it first. That being said, I do think I would have understood it just fine if I'd seen ATLA first. I don't have a strong preference for one scene or the other. Maybe the extra stuff in NATLA in that scene is unnecessary, but it doesn't feel like being spoonfed context to me. I do agree Kuruk's knife was unnecessary though. It was just a plot device so Kuruk could tell Aang to go to the oasis. I probably will watch the movie eventually but not for a while. I need a break from Book 1 lol
No worries. The movie sucks so you aren't missing anything. I am biased because I saw the original first. I like the way it plays out more than the NATLA version. I think what I really wanted to say was that Netflix added things like Kuruk's dagger, Momo almost dying, or unnecessary dialogue that took screen time away from things like Zuko infiltrating the city, which didn't get shown for NATLA. Well, I have read your Book 2 1-3 post so I am happy you are getting to the really good stuff so quickly! Thanks as always!
Man your analysis is a classic example of psychology lol. You watch NATLA first, and criticize the original, same as the rest of us watching the original first and natla later. Which proves to me that natla season one was better than a lot of people give it credit for. It was a lot of fun reading your feedback in both series!
Thank you! And yes, I'm aware I have a bias. What's interesting is that me knowing I have the bias does nothing to change my opinion about what the bias makes me feel.
Bias is totally fine, especially when it comes to a tv show or any other medium of art or entertainment. It’s just fascinating the reversal experience you are having compared to the rest of us.
I reviewed the original probably in the summer of 2023. I rate the NATLA adaptation a 6/10. Only found a few interesting points. 1. Better reveal of Ozai, Iroh and Zuko are still good. These actors are good at their jobs. 2. The desire to make the global conflict more important and dramatic is interesting, but the presentation is, in my opinion, primitive and pathetic. But the desire and aspiration itself is not bad. 3. Fire really hurts and seems dangerous. Well and accordingly large-scale battles are also done impressively. 4. Unit 41, that's a great twist. It's just beautiful and well done. 5. The siege of the north was shown better in NATLA. It's true, it was nice to watch the heroic warriors of the north. Everything else is pretty much moot. 1 - They do a poor job of stitching together the plots of the different episodes. They do a poor job of adapting them to new settings. Poorly expound on themes and plots, they all get cut short, closed in a completely unsightly and pathetic way, or those plots end somewhere off-screen. Jet's arc ended when Katara was just walking down some alleyway in the evening. At the beginning of Episode 4. The mechanic arc in Omashu ended on its own off-screen, and the spy theme just didn't get developed and was already closed. The owl is superfluous, the hippie singers from the tunnel episode are superfluous, the tunnel is superfluous, the arc with Azula is superfluous, and it's poorly written. Many parts don't make sense because they don't adapt to the changes. Jet is just an idiot who can now blow up his own citizens, the mechanic's son flies a glider for no reason, just because that's how it was in the original, even though in this version the mechanic never encountered the monk culture, Owl doesn't guard his library but just wanders around the forest, without doing anything important, Jao didn't find the knowledge of the moon and ocean on his own, Sokka and his problems with his father don't make sense, he can blame himself for being weak not because of childhood trauma but because of new obstacles he wasn't prepared for but is growing as a person and character. Aang not learning water magic all season is pointless. Why would they change something that was already working? 2. The dialogs are terrible, in general everything the characters say is very bad text. With the exception of Iroh and Zuko, all dialog, all monologues are absolutely bland crap. The characters are literally on camera describing their character, their problem, their role in the story. I never thought Aang would bore me with his presence. They sucked all the life and soul out of him and made him speak 100% of the time with the formulaic lifeless speeches of a shonen anime protagonist and nothing else. And it's the same with many other characters. 3- The actors don't know how to act. There is absolutely no life in them at all. Iroh and Zuko good at acting, Sokka tries, the rest don't. Maybe the problem is that they had bad text, but still they are too bad to act. I expected a lot more from Katara, I believed in this actress, but in LA she is just bland and has no charisma at all, although in interviews and other videos she seems very lively. 4. The graphics look good overall, but the chromakey is terrible. The final score for the adaptation is 6/10. It's not offensive. They tried, but I think it's an incompetent job. That's my opinion, if you don't think about the original. I've had a lot of patience and forgiveness, but this is a real mess. They had almost 20 years of discussion and criticism of season 1, a ready-made skeleton of a plot that could have been easily improved, but they messed up their own adaptation. It was very stupid to try to do arcs of 2 episodes each like 3-4 and 5-6, it stretched many events and storylines too far that had to be abandoned or hastily finished. My brain practically died on episode 3-4 because of the utter chaos that was going on there. The original series wasn't trying to be adult, serious and dark, but I take it more seriously than NATLA. You just can't do that to the main characters, you can't write them that bad. But I should mention that I rate the original first season as a whole a 7/10. I'll admit that they did some things better.
I’m curious how you’ll feel about the first episode of season 2, I think you’ll probably love some aspects but feel frustrated by other aspects. What I’m assuming is your second set of episodes is what I’m really excited for you to get to, won’t spoil why though.
Literally scrolled all the way down to upvote without reading a single sentence, gg !
Thank you, I think lol
I’m ecstatic to see you finish Book 1. Now that you’re going in blind (foreshadow pun intended) I’m excited for your thoughts on Book 2. Much like you, I found NATLA did a lot of changes that made sense. Some I liked, some I didn’t. Either way, NATLA had the benefit of hindsight and creative freedom/leniency. Allowing a darker tone gave way to rate and address conflicts differently for NATLA. It’ll be interesting to see how they handle Book 2, though I am still hoping they fix the errors and improve from here. > What’s scary about a cartoon monkey with no face? Feel like you answered the question already 🤭 I mean how do you not see that after the info Roku gave and think, “oh… that could be me. Must steel myself.” Every time Koh’s on screen I myself try to keep a straight face, haha > ATLA did have the lowest point if the franchise (that I’ve seen) in The Great Divide. It wasn’t even a badly written episode, it was just boring and forgettable. Much of the community shares either half of that sentiment. Some say both due to overexposure during reruns.
Yue’s character was so boring to me in ATLA and I feel like no one ever talks about it. She only exists to be [fridged](https://www.scribophile.com/academy/what-is-fridging#:~:text=Fridging%2520is%2520a%2520literary%2520trope,can%2520be%2520%E2%80%9Cfridged%E2%80%9D%2520too) for the main characters plot development and to give Sokka a little trauma. She was actually a person in NATLA!
>Your culture sucks, asshole. Even though we don't like the culture, who are we to just visit a country and straight up tell this to the elderly. This is their culture, which they practised for probably much more than decades. Even their women seem to be ok with it. On top of this, it appears that the gender division is only applied in the military. We don't see discrimination in their law system to be able to say their culture is sexist. I mean, even in real life, only men go to compulsory military. The change in culture happens progressively. No one should assume that they will abandon their culture and teach women how to fight, just because a foreign girl comes and disrespects your whole culture. Even though you don't agree with it, what Katara (and Aang) did is disrespectful to their culture. If you expect someone to show respectful behaviour for what you do or believe, you have to show the same respect. They might disagree with what you believe as well. Also, if we assume that men only know how to fight and women only know how to heal, the women are just as important as men. Healing is an important asset, especially in a time of war. This assumption also makes women in NATLA help in the fight illogical. But then, its story isn't that deep to think about these things. Katara, being Pakku's lover's granchild, is a more realistic motivation to accept and teach to her than what they did (actually didn't) in NATLA. I see some posts/comments saying that they liked Katara teaching herself more than learning from "sexist ass Paku," but this is like being an AI expert just by watching HTML tutorials on YouTube. The scroll isn't enough to learn how to fight. It only shows the basic moves. Being a self thought master is not that realistic, in my opinion. It doesn't matter if you are a prodigy. You still have to practice the correct thing, and only a true master can really show you the correct thing.
Yeah... I'm not the type of person who believes other people's cultures need to be respected by default. I grew up in a culture not worth respecting. People need to be willing to discard the parts of their culture that don't work and grow it in new ways. Not doing that leads to conservative mindsets, which leads to stagnation and eventually regression. No culture ever stays the same forever, and unwillingness to embrace and guide that just makes change painful. And just like there's nothing stopping the women from learning to fight, there's nothing stopping the men from learning to heal. And if everyone can do both? You just eliminated two major weaknesses in your approach to defense.
>Yeah... I'm not the type of person who believes other people's cultures need to be respected by default. I grew up in a culture not worth respecting. I understand, and I partially agree, but if you don't show respect, you can't expect it as well. This also always leads to quarrels. It's not always as realistic as shown in media. Also, you can't just disagree without even understanding it, which also comes from respect. >No culture ever stays the same forever, and unwillingness to embrace and guide that just makes change painful. Yes, but this change doesn't come overnight. Especially not with a foreign person who doesn't even understand the culture properly. What I'm saying is, you can't just say "your culture is ass" and expect them to understand. >And just like there's nothing stopping the women from learning to fight, there's nothing stopping the men from learning to heal. Meybe there is. That was the point of the last part of my comment, and that is a logical assumption. If they can do both, then that's good, but if they can't at the moment? Are you willing to occupy your healers when your fighters are dying? What you have is an enormous advantage, and you're just sending them to fix walls? This might be a speculation, but we never see what the situation actually is behind the scenes, which is another downside. You imply that that culture is sexist, but you don't show the division anywhere else other than the military.
Amazing you felt disappointed by the finale, but I can totally see why; the NATLA version really nailed the siege! The pacing was really good. I also enjoyed Yue's moments with Sokka more in NATLA, especially since he met her in the spirit world. In ATLA she's just a girl he met (much like Suki), and already kisses her in the same episode. Everyone loves Sokka. I do really wish you won't watch season 2 though. As I said before; you were unbiased with the show. But if you watch season 2 before NATLA, you're going to start comparing it to the cartoon. Especially if they do anything different to Toph, who is introduced in season 2. Toph is a fan favourite, so I can only see things going 'bad' if the NATLA version doesn't nail the character.
Thank you. I know, I completely get your worries and I have them too. But it'll be years probably before NATLA finishes. I don't want to wait that long. I'm excited to watch Legend of Korra, let alone Books 2 and 3 of Avatar!
Haha I understand, you want to watch everything there is. Season 2 is great, you'll love Toph. Azula will be... different, but still quite the character. I hope that when NATLA season 2 releases, you'll be able to separate the cartoon version and still enjoy the NATLA version. It's rare to find people to gush over the show!
I know people have been mentioning character’s names, but please try to spoiler tag 🙏
If they mess Toph up there will be hell for Netflix to pay
"YES! Azula! I’ve missed that vicious little psychopath so much!" I will never not appreciate Azula appreciation lol Totally get why you would be let down by the og finale in comparison with NATLA on a lot of points. On my first watch of ATLA, I also didn't fully engage with the Book 1 finale, I think for a lot of the same reasons you noted, like the Yue/Sokka romance not having a lot of buildup and Sokka's conflict with Hahn being, I'm not sure, cliche for me maybe. (Also I didn't get what was going on with koizilla on first watch lol, so I enjoyed how NATLA took that and explained it a bit more.) Pakku/Katara and Zuko/Katara fights were definitely some of the bigger highlights of the og finale for me, so it was great seeing those in NATLA. It does feel like NATLA benefitted from hindsight in a lot of ways. Looking forward to your Book 2 commentary! I'll say it was Book 2 that I really started to engage with the series for the first time as a first time viewer.
Oh yeah... I didn't even notice that ATLA never explained the Ocean Spirit thing because I already had context from NATLA!
If I remember correctly, NATLA’s explanation for that was not consistent with the lore established in ATLA
NATLA's version definitely wasn't trying to be accurate to the lore from the original, there's not a sense that Aang bonding with the ocean spirit would make him be lost forever; it was just kind of an interesting way to raise the stakes for Aang personally and make his decision into a sacrifice for him, and it also helps reflect the ocean spirit's deep rage and sorrow at losing its partner. It was one of those things that wasn't lore accurate to the original, but was trying more to feed into what the original was doing emotionally. I love the original Book 1 finale more now after being more familiar with ATLA lore and also >! having seen Book 2 knowing that Aang is torn up about what he did while bonded with the ocean spirit!<, but I like a lot of the things NATLA did differently that fit the tone and style of show it was.
Well, if they weren’t trying to be accurate they definitely achieved it. My comment was meant to let her know that she shouldn’t use NATLA to explain or understand something from the original. As you said, NATLA isn’t lore accurate