Aang won everyone’s heart in the early 2000s. Avatar: The Last Airbender was undeniably one of Nickelodeon’s most successful cartoons. The upcoming live-action of this series by Netflix is clear to say that this cartoon is something we can’t easily get rid of simply because of its incomparable nature. After the end of Avatar: The Last Airbender, fans deeply missed the world of the benders. Hence the sequel, The Legend of Korra was released in 2012.
While Aang and his show may still be the most popular cartoon, Korra’s series was nonetheless a unique story in its own way. Of course the two have their own differences since The Legend of Korra takes place 70 years after the events of the first show. However, these differences, as well as some other interesting facts, may be why The Legend of Korra is the perfect sequel to Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Korra = Foil of Aang
From the very first episode, it becomes clear that Korra, voiced by Janet Varney, is the opposite of Aang. For starters, Korra has already learned waterbending, firebending, and earthbending by the time the show starts. In addition, unlike Aang, Korra has many guardians and people who protect and care for her. So she doesn’t have the hard and sad past that Aang had. The main difference between these two characters, however, is that Korra is more rebellious, quirky, impulsive, and outspoken than Aang. Unlike Aang, Korra does not exude a calming presence. This is made even more apparent by her inability to handle air bending. All these differences make her the perfect foil for Aang. This also means that there are several incidents in the show where the viewer may not agree or sympathize with Korra.
Of course, the fact that Korra has a female lead is the perfect icing on the cake. The creators seemed to emphasize the idea that gender is a social construct, as Korra’s masculine character is constantly emphasized. Not only does this send a positive message to the audience, but it also explores the progressive nature of this cartoon.
History of Avatar
The Legend of Korra takes the audience through a much-needed history lesson. Even, Avatar: The Last Airbender introduced us to the world of benders and also who the Avatar is, it never went deep into how benders came to be and what the Avatar’s original purpose was.
interesting, The Legend of Korra answers all of these questions in Season 2. Using flashbacks, the show takes us back in time to show us the story of Wan, the very first Avatar. It also gives an in-depth look into the spirit world. Interestingly, the lesson about the negative and positive elements can also be a life lesson that many can take into account. This shows that this cartoon is not an ordinary series as it gives some necessary lessons on how to live a balanced life.
Nostalgia from past characters and their children
Avatar Aang may not be part of this sequel other than the flashbacks and Korra’s spiritual connections to him, but the creators have tried to close the gap he left by bringing in the old versions of his friends. The fans are sure to get goosebumps every time Uncle Iroh or Toph Beifong comes to help Korra. The inclusion of Avatar’s kids from the OG team and their kids is yet another plus of the show. Seeing the characters of Tenzin and Lin play a prominent role will allow them to continue the legacy of their parents. Plus, these characters seem to carry their parents’ personalities, making the OG team Avatar not to be missed in this series.
Perfect transition from the original cartoon
One thing that The Legend of Korra don’t want his viewers to forget that it’s the continuation of Avatar: The Last Airbender. There are several ways this particular show creates the perfect segue.
By having different storylines and villains for each season, The Legend of Korra seems to have focused on the new world Aang has created. In fact, this show seems to be aimed at correcting the gaps left in the previous show. For example, the debate about how benders and non-benders live together is the focus of season one. This is an obvious problem that was not discussed in Avatar: The Last Airbender. Moreover, by keeping the gates to the spirit world open, Korra has further changed the new world. Thus she seems to have continued the tradition of the avatar, which balances the ever-changing world.
In addition to all this, the makers have also incorporated the changes in society. Bringing in Asami and her knowledge of mechanics and technology, they have moved away from binary gender norms. Plus, by subtly ending the show alludes to the relationship between Korra and Asami, the show once stepped out of hetero-normative ideologies. All this allows the viewers to feel more related to the characters, while the cartoon creates a positive space.