If you are in need of a well-rounded fantasy show that is great for everyone, look no further than Avatar: The Last Airbender. While it’s not perfect, the list of its flaws is so few that it might as well be. But we are going to focus on the positives, which there are almost too many of, and talk about why you should watch it if you have not already.
Or, if you need a rewatch. Which, I might…. and I just rewatched it.
1. Avatar: The Last Airbender Features Amazing Characters
The characters in Avatar: The Last Airbender are all so good that there is not one I dislike. Okay, I dislike some villains, but in the way you are supposed to. Aang, Katara, Sokka, Toph, and Zuko are amazing leads. They all have depth, feel real, and are multifaceted. The way they play off of each other is a joy to watch. You cannot help but root for them. They are also hilarious and full of heart.
Each of their strengths, and even their flaws, offer something to the team. At the same time, it is easy to connect with everyone because of that. The side characters are also fun and make the world feel fully fleshed out. I also have to mention the wonderful and wise Uncle Iroh, who eventually is there for Zuko and the whole team. He is a great comfort to everyone.
2. Character Development
Yes, the character development in this show deserves its own point outside of the characters because it is that phenomenal. Zuko’s redemption arc alone is still one of the best ever written. We watch these characters grow up over the course of three seasons in a way that makes you proud. Frankly, it’s inspiring.
The way Aang shoulders the responsibility thrust upon him at such a young age is admirable. He also stays true to his beliefs as an Air Nomad, conscious that he is the only one of the Air Nomads left. He keeps that in his core and continues to learn and grow. Even some of the less drastic character arcs are done in a way where they mature and grow throughout the series with nuances that feel tangible.
3. The Bending and the World Building
The world they built in Avatar: The Last Airbender feels really solid and rich; it is heavily influenced by Asian and Indigenous cultures. Bending is such a cool and fun magic system that has a significant place in this world. And what is even more astonishing is that the different bending styles are all based on different forms of martial arts.
The team had a martial arts instructor on staff who gave them references for the animators and storyboard artists to inform their drawings and make the fights feel grounded and beautiful. The choreography is almost like a dance, which makes the sequences incredibly engaging.
4. The Narrative
For a kid’s show, Avatar: The Last Airbender deals with a lot of heavy themes in a mature way while still being engaging for everyone. They handle all narratives with care and love. Even with the age-old story of good versus evil, they are able to delve deeper and make it feel new and profound. How Aang and Zuko’s arcs are intertwined and where they conclude their stories by the end of the series feels like something of a legend.
5. Wholesome to the Core
Another area where they succeeded is in the heart of the show. It’s kind and hopeful. Even though all the characters suffer through something, they persevere together, making the series inspiring. Even with Toph’s tough exterior, she has her moments of vulnerability. One of which is when she asks the question, “Do you really think friendships can last more than one lifetime?”
This sentiment encapsulates the entire show: the bonds that are made and the spiritual element of being a part of something bigger. The love Team Avatar has for each other is something viewers can feel, as is the desire for the world to be a better and kinder place.
Avatar: The Last Airbender is available to stream on Netflix and Paramount +.