It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since “The Legend of Korra” ended, and revisiting the series today brings to light some harsh realities about the sequel to “The Last Airbender.” Set 70 years after Aang’s time, “The Legend of Korra” follows the Avatar after him, navigating a world more unified and technologically advanced. However, upon rewatching the series, there are several aspects that might raise some eyebrows.
Nickelodeon’s Lack of Long-Term Planning Hindered the Series
Unlike “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” which had a clear three-season, 60-episode order from the start, “The Legend of Korra” faced uncertainties. Nickelodeon’s lack of confidence in the sequel led to a bumpy road, with the series initially planned for one season and subsequent renewals made one by one. This lack of a long-term plan resulted in a fragmented storyline and prevented the sequel from reaching its full potential.
Handling of Romantic Relationships Falls Short
The romantic dynamics in “The Legend of Korra” feel disappointing upon rewatching. The love triangle among Korra, Asami, and Mako seems pointless, and the relationships lack depth. While Korra and Asami’s relationship offers LGBTQ+ representation, it feels too understated to be satisfying, especially with the prevalence of such relationships in modern television.
New Team Avatar Doesn’t Match the Original
The characters in “The Legend of Korra’s” Team Avatar don’t leave the same impression as Aang and his friends. While Korra stands out, other characters like Mako, Bolin, and Asami lack the same memorability. Their stories don’t resonate as strongly as those of the original team.
Depiction of Grown-Up Aang Disappoints
The portrayal of an adult Aang in “The Legend of Korra” may not meet fans’ expectations. The suggestion that Aang prioritized his duty over his family contradicts his character arc in “The Last Airbender,” where he balanced both roles. Additionally, some scenes lack the lighthearted spirit and humor associated with Aang.
The Bittersweet Ending After 10 Years
“The Legend of Korra’s” ending feels more bittersweet a decade later, especially with no new animated Avatar projects since its conclusion. While new projects from Avatar Studios offer hope for the franchise’s future, the series finale serves as a reminder of the potential end of the Avatar world.
Despite these criticisms, “The Legend of Korra” remains a solid follow-up to “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” deserving more credit than it often receives. As new Avatar projects emerge, fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of this beloved universe.
FAQ
Where can I watch “The Legend of Korra” now?
The Legend of Korra” is available to stream on platforms like Netflix and Paramount+.
Are there any upcoming projects related to the Avatar universe?
Yes, Netflix is working on a live-action adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” and Avatar Studios has plans for new animated projects set in the Avatar universe.
Will there be a continuation of “The Legend of Korra”?
There are currently no official plans for a direct continuation of “The Legend of Korra,” but new projects from Avatar Studios offer hope for further exploration of the Avatar universe.