The cartoon version – I thought it was fantastic and I’ve watched it several times. So, when I saw that they were launching a live-action version on Netflix, I had to watch it too!
A good friend of mine advised against it because the storyline is very different from the original cartoon. And I can understand why that might be a downside, as the cartoon had so many funny moments and was just such a fun, family-friendly series.
Still, his opinion (thankfully) didn’t stop me, and I happily started watching the series.
Based on the cartoon version, this live-action one feels a bit more condensed and different, which takes some getting used to. It’s a bit of a shame because I miss some of the humor here and there.
What I also noticed, unfortunately, is that sometimes something important happens but there’s no follow-up. For example, in Episode 3, Omashu: Katara meets Jet, and he shows her how skilled he is, along with his warriors. (This happens in the cartoon version too, but a little differently.) Then the archer shoots a Fire Nation soldier against a tree. They just walk away, and that’s it. I found that a bit vague… What happened to that soldier? He could have just pulled the arrow out and freed himself, I think… But maybe this will be explained later?
The actors, however, are amazing! They’ve been perfectly cast and really bring their roles to life. I’ve definitely wiped away a few tears during both the beautiful and the sad moments. And it’s not just from Aang’s perspective, but also from Zuko’s.The special effects are also fantastic; Momo and Appa look incredibly lifelike!
Something I really love is the wisdom that’s still present in the series.For example, in Episode 5:Gyatso’s voice: “Sometimes it feels like we will always be alone, and the only company we have is our own pain. We tell ourselves that we are the problem, especially when things happen beyond our control. That’s why we need to let go of our pain and regret.”
As of writing this (November 2024), seasons 2 and 3 are not yet available on Netflix, but they are coming. From what I found quickly, season 2 is currently in production!
Yes, it takes some getting used to, which is understandable. Give yourself some time to adjust. I’m glad I did, because I definitely think it’s worth it
