How they did Zuko's backstory of his banishment far superior in this rendition than the original was indeed the highlight for me as well. Might as well be the best episode of this remake, too!
ATLA may be named as such, but it's really not about Aang so much as it is the lives he affected. The heart of the story is Zuko's redemption, easily, and his acceptance of Iroh as the father he deserved and always needed is the central catharsis of the series. Toph learns to let her guard down, be vulnerable, depend on others. Sokka's journey of discovery. Katara's realization of her strength. Aang achieves balance not through his power as the avatar but his family he found along the way. Each representing an element, and Sokka who finds that to be a hero through selflessness and humility. Without Aang, none of these characters would have achieved all that they did. The Avatar who inspired hope when the world was darkest.
They try to establish Roku as a new warm friend for Aang to replace Kyatso. Being a 12 year old, Aang has a more believable connection with someone like him than with a super serious guy. They moved some of the serious and distant bits to Kyoshi, while Roku steps in the void that Kyatso created. I think in the long term Roku will serve as Aangs guide that cheers him up which is very well needed with all the burden talk the kid had in this season, he looked borderline depressed
It was my favorite episode of the show, the fact that they took time in this episode and almost a whole cartoon episode was dedicated into the LA episode was probably the reason
The expansion of zuko's crew is SO good. if every change was as good as this one this show would be a masterpiece. The blue spirit was incredible. I didn't really care for roku, but i can understand trying to make him someone similar to aang in personality, it means they can further compare his failure in the future to the stakes aang faces in trying to end the war without violence.
Considering how serious they try to make this version. I actually liked rokus portrayal. It actually gave him character and personality. He's the closest to aang, and for him to be wayyyy too serious would have a differnt vibe. We can tell roku is wise, and powerful. The fact he's able to be light hearted in this case, was a welcomed relief in my opinion. I sort of wish they they did more of that in the original. It may help to balance it out a bit. I think they portrayed roku rather well. Even better than I expected.
This was the best episode for me. The storm and the blue spirit have similar themes with Zuko that being defying his nation and family. I also really liked the twist that Zuko protecting his crew is why he was banished and that the crew really start to respect him in a whole new way after learning the truth was just so good.
In this season episode two and episode six are my favorite episodes I liked how they presented Zuko's story more than how they presented his story in the original series I felt more connected to him in live action and I also liked that they also added the scene where Ozai banishes Zuko and that they changed the way where the team refers to him because in the original series I felt that after Iroh told the story they felt sorry for him but in live action they change because they have a duty they feel they live because of him and I was also happy that they recreated the scene between Zuko and Aang in live action they did a lot of good things in the episode also the scene when ozai cries that he is burning his son's face a lot of people thought it hurt him but he was just disappointed that zuko turned out to be like his mother
What I want to know is, why did Roku steal Koh’s totem in the first place?? Poor evil centipede monster just wants his mama, seems like a pretty jerk thing to do without any context… I’m assuming maybe there’s some backstory to this in the comics, just seems weird to find out Roku stole something like that without giving any reason as to why. I’m very happy they found a way to adapt Koh, but it was a little clumsily done. Also, all of the additions to Zuko’s background were just phenomenal! Saving the 41st division, Ozai being so intentional when he scarred him, specifically telling him it was all because of Zuko’s compassion - and the way they paid Zuko such respect when he returned to the ship! Now that warmed my heart, so good to see. I hope if they get a second season the lieutenant at least will have a minor role to play, I love how they developed him and would like to see him supporting Zuko and Iroh in some way in the future.
I understand where you're coming from with Rokku's character change and I also felt the same the first time i watched the episode but when i think about it, when you made Rokku this wise, serious teacher figure, you'll have all of the four previous avatars in Kyoshi, Kuruk, Yangchen and Rokku essentially having the same personality. Kyoshi being a ruthless serious warrior, Kuruk being angsty traumatized by his past mistakes, Yangchen and Roku being wise teachers to Aang. We needed to have the Avatar who would be a little more light hearted and who Aang would have a better connection with. And in the original show, its Rokku he has the best connection with hence why giving him an Uncle Iroh-esque sense of humor is not as much of a bad idea.
My counterargument to that is that we already have the comedic but wise character on Aang's spirit side, and that was Gyatso. Roku acted like a bootleg gyatso there without the personal connection to aang, so the humor felt forced and awkward. Rokku should have been the wise logical one, as he would have the personal experience of knowing what happens if you let your feelings get in the way of your responsibility, and we see a bit of that at the end of their talk in the live-action.
I enjoyed this episode the most! The one moment during the Agni Kye when Zuko could’ve nail Ozai but chose not to was great for the reason that the scar Ozai would’ve had if Zuko followed through is the scar he gave him instead, that was awesome =)
@@dav_zee I did too. Tho idk how I feel about Ozai nearly tearing up while scarring his son. Either you are evil enough to ruthlessly hurt your son that way, or you are sympathetic enough to forgive him, but this version of Ozai has some humanity it seems.
What I love about the scene with Roku is that he talks about diplomacy. A firebender who gives Aang this advice seems very special and shows that not every firebender goes only for the fight! 😉
I think Roku was initially less serious as a counter to Kyoshi who was far more serious earlier on, but that passes quickly in the interaction as he sternly reinforces that Aang has to walk the lonely path as the avatar. I hope we get the flashback of Sozin and Roku's duel on the volcano.
I think that they make Roku so much more comedic to contrast him from Kyoshi and Koruk. Those two came across as incredibly serious and stern and I think they want to give Aang an Avatar that he'll really wants to connect more.
By far my favourite episode in this season! Loved it. I really loved the scenes with iroh and ozai, it just added a bit more depth to thier relationship as brothers (we never got much of that in the OG show). I loved aang and zukos little chat aswell.
This is one of my favourite episodes, the whole back-story and Iroh explaining to Jee about the sacrifice Zuko made is a great addition, with all the flashbacks and the action scenes with Zuko as the blue spirit are indeed awsome. My 4 issues with this episode are: Aang's lack of concern/effort for his friends... Aang not trying to escape from Zuko and Iroh on the back of the wagon and then again with Zuko after saving him despite his friends being trapped in the spirit world. The conversation between them was great, however given the plot it seems way off. June showing up with Nyla on Roku's island and took our 4/5 Fire Sages no problem... I would of loved for their to be more time on the fire sages fighting the one who helps Aang and then attempting to get into the room only to find Roku has locked the doors, this would then setup Aang for a fight scene or a Avatar state moment with Roku to defeat them. Similar to the original playout. June could then of entered the frame for a 1V1 with Aang after it. The scene with Roku, yeah it's bad... The final scene with Koh is also terrible, Aang goes, says nothing, puts a totem on the floor and Koh just says nothing and gives his friends (AND EVERYONE ELSE) back...
The Storm and The Blue Spirit are my favorite episodes in the original show hands down. I cannot begin to express how much I love Prince Zuko. He’s easily one of my all time favorites in all of fiction. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the best episode stuck the closest to the source material. I loved the flashbacks. I think that’s a testament to how strong the original source material really was. Also Dallas and Daniel Dae Kim were incredibly. Roku was butchered.
I don’t think Roku was butchered as much as it was a personality change that wasn’t needed with that humor. I don’t know if I’d say it’s a coincidence since even the other episode with the first one has some changes too.
So many comments are saying that Roku had a sense of humor to contrast Kyoshi but I had a different read on it. Aang in this version isn't nearly as bubbly or playful. I think seeing Roku be what Aang (and the audience) expected only for it to be a joke was a welcome change and could provide a postive example to Aang to let go and realize just because he's the avatar doesn't mean he has to be as cold and serious as Kyoshi or Kuruk. He is still an individual.
I'm on my second viewing and even though the speed of Roku's temple (And the performance of Roku) still bugged me, everything else felt pretty damn good.. except Zhao's little speech, that kind of felt like an assistant manager reading off lines from an email. The blue spirit sequence went by way too quickly, imo. There should have been more fighting and stunts by a few minutes. And also.. come on.. Lu Ten's funeral with the leaves from the vine instrumental HURTS my soul. edit: I'm curious if they didn't want Roku to be as stiff as Kyoshi was before and Kuruk would be later to depict them all as kind of stick in the mud characters. Roku DOES have a gentle sarcasm "It's good to see you Aang.. what took you so long?". But here he isn't depicted as wise. Maybe they can do a retcon in Book 2 and make it so that he's more serious but he wanted to give Aang a break from how serious his previous interaction with Kyoshi was. Who knows, though. I like CS Lee but Roku needed to be more Regal.
I remember when he says that line and in a way I don’t think he ever meant to say that out of sarcasm or comedic tone like I genuinely think that he meant that
I didn't see many people talking about that but I hate what they did with the spirit world in this show. I'm not gonna get into the design looking cheap because i understand the budget limitations. The inclusion of Wan Shi Tong in the previous episode was an unnecessary fan service. They tease the Hei Bai storyline with the forest burned down by the fire nation, with the village where people are being kidnapped by an angry spirit, they even show Hei Bai's corrupted form. But then, everything that Hei Bai did was given to Koh and we didn't even see the panda. Aang just burried the acorn under the scarred Panda statue and that it. The only thing i liked about the spirit world in live-action is Aang's conversation with Gyatso and the heart wretching moment when he comes back to his hut hoping to have an unlimited amount of time to speak to his friend only to find it empty and abandoned. And a callback to legend of Korra with the fog of lost souls was nice
Idk why but Roku's change didn't bother me one bit. I doubt first time viewers hated it, it's just us fickle day 1 folks. Him being more laid back was fine for me because it was a nice contrast to Kyoshi.
Yeah I loved the Zuko backstory. And I loved getting more/actual conversation between Aang and Zuko here. (no pun intended) I had more of a problem with the visuals of the Roku conversation than the comedy. It could fit that is a jokester if he was such good friends with Gyatso too. But I felt Roku should've been a much older looking actor and had better looking hair/facial hair. And the environment looked like a 1966 Star Trek set. I love OG Trek, but it was 1966. I didn't mind the addition of complexity to Koh. I actually LOVED the easter egg of the Mother of Faces from the Zuko's Mom comic. That ws an "Oh Sh!t!" moment for me. Simply not showing emotion wouldn't have got Katara, Sokka, and the others back. And i guess you could say that's solving a problem that created for themselves. BUT I also kinda understand them changing the kindappings from Hei Bai to Koh, since Hei Bai isn't a malevolent spirit, it's just in a lot of pain. That pain line by the fox really touched me in my pain too actually, which felt just like the cartoon often does. I was still REALLY hoping we'd see Hei Bai turn back into a Panda though 🐼
See that part you mentioned with regard to Zuko‘s mom‘s comic is some thing I didn’t know because I haven’t read any of the comics yet but one day I will
@@uncleirohsteashop yeah maybe they shouldn't have used something only comic readers would know. I actually didn't read them either, but I watched the official recap video on thier channel recently.
Definitely much better done here than in the cartoon simply because of the fact that the crew actually has something personal to them that can connect them with him as to why they forgive him
This episode is my favorite of the season so far, still haven’t watched 7 or 8. Also the way they made Roku here threw me off a little too, but I remember his friendship with Sozin and they were parallel to Aang and Zuko in a way. When Roku was younger of course. I’m still on the fence with how I feel about the humor of his character here but so far I don’t think it’s much of a big deal. The episode itself was beyond my expectations and I’m so pleasantly surprised how they pulled it off 🤍
Ep 6 is the best in the show. As for ep 7 and 8, I still laugh at the sight of the girl's wig, they did her so dirty with that. You'll see what I'm talking about
@@MrE_ lol I thought the same!! I watched some of ep 7 last night. As soon as I saw it I said, oh no girl noooo 😭 but it’s not that bad I think they just made the wig a little too full but oh well 🤣
@@uncleirohsteashop it was nice that they made it to look like her hair pretty much how it is in the OG but they did it a little too full imo. But just a nitpick I think the actress was great 🙂
I get they made Roku into an opposite of tone of Kiyoshi approach to show the difference between the two Avatars and to show Aang/viewer there os no one right way avatar should be like.
I agree for the most part with this analysis, but I felt very strongly that Zuko's defence of the 41st was far superior in the original, the bit about loving their nation only to be betrayed by its leaders was so powerful to me and I felt like the live action version just didn't have that same impact.
I really hope for a second season 2 coz there is so much potential for this show, and I agree with Roku, he didn't feel like Roku. I'm just so worried about how they will implement the urgency of this war coz we haven't even seen Aang Waterbend yet😭😭
I agree with your take on the Roku scene 100%. I also feel like the scene was just weirdly empty, like there are some rocks in the background but it just feels so strange to me.
This episode felt so true to the source materials that I couldn’t barely nitpick anything. I will say that my poor boy Roku was not done quite right here. Zuko and Aang moment was actually kinda nice, their conversation was well written. I just really enjoyed this episode a lot! Now I see why I enjoyed episode 1 and 6 a lot cause the creators had a hand in it. Sigh…what this show could have been right?!
You say that but you don’t know if that would’ve been the case for every other episode. After all like you said Roku was not done right and they’re the ones who wrote him that way this episode.
I also thought this was a great episode and I loved what they added to it. But I agree I didn't care for the changes to Roku's personality so much, although it didn't bother me quite as much as it bothered you.
I love the look of these live action adaptations ! The actors are phenomenal, the background is on point, the effects of the elements being 'bended' are mesmerizing, I love this ! Good review 👍💯🔥✨
i don't know if its only me but the episodes that are one on one with the Og series are absolutely great.The blue spirit is great plus the back story is just Awesome and now i understand why uncle iroh puts up with zuko🔥. i also agree with with roku's part its just not like his character , and i wonder how june also got but we'll just asume. also the other thing that left me wondering is that Aang showed emotions what are they doing with other characters tbh 😭😭but all in all this is a7/10 for me
It didn't sit right with me either, but i think that it probably comes down to needing a balance between kyoshi and roku. If they are both super serious and depressed/angry, it may be a bit much and it gives the impression that all of the past avatars were just grumpy and not different people.
I enjoyed the episode. I feel that Roku was done well ( miss the voice actor's voice though). I feel the way he communicated with Aang was a little silly in regards to his humor but still kinda liked it. Episode was one of the better ones and I do feel too many people are being too critical about the show.
I probably would agree with you about Roku if it weren't for how serious Kyoshi and Kuruk were. If every Avatar were serious it probably would have felt redundant and I'm cool with it because it's only like what....10 seconds? Maybe 20? It's not like Roku doesn't know comedy and I don't mind him starting off with a couple of light hearted jokes before moving on to serious matters especially since he's talking to a child. Everything else though I pretty much agree with you on though.
@@uncleirohsteashop understandable. Roku is my favorite Avatar so this is certainly not how I would have handled his introduction but I don't think this was a bad way to do it either.
Yup! My words exactly. They fumbled the scene with aang and Roku so bad. Didn’t like the dialogue or the interaction or how they portrayed Roku. I get Kyoshi being hard and tough with Aang but Roku too? After just trying to be funny? It was odd and just bad
while watching i was not a fan of roku. he is supposed to be the friendly and wise grandpa and now he acted more like a strict dad. and i get why he would say that you shouldnt have friends because of what happened with him and sozin but without context and saying it so angry gives a entirely wrong message. if in fact one of his friends isnt trust worthy then sure this would make sence. but we all know katara and sokka would never do anything against aang and a good people. i found it very odd. also i find june very out of place in the palace. i think its strange for her to be on a different island and also that she found a random red piece of wool out of nowhere in the woods. it was way better if zuko had something of aang. they fought multiple times now and he must have been able to get something that has his scent. and secondly i think it would have been better if june intercepts aang when he gets back from the island maybe even with his friends. like an actuall ambush. idk i have many ideas about the series that would have made it a 9.5 instead of a 7 would love to talk about it with knowlageable avatar people
also i hate that the entire winter solstice is just writen out from the episode the entire fire tempel bit could have been so much better if they gave it more time
I wouldn’t say my problem with Roku is that he was getting mad at Aang because I never got that vibe but it was just how he was portrayed at the beginning
i didn't like the roku scene either but i think that's mostly rooted in them changing the whole purpose of his visit. here it seems like not much trouble to talk to roku, so they spent the time with chitchat +the ep's resolution ofc (which was't too interesting either). in the og roku is rlly important bc this scene is basically the start of the whole plot. introducing the comet and ofc delivering the iconic line "you must do it by summer's end" WHILE aang's doom awaits behind the door. cracking jokes in the tension the og is unthinkable
I hated the way how Koh was shown earlier when his meeting with aang was meant to be one of the most important and yet scariest encounters in the show. The whole showing no emotions but it was some sort of object that koh wanted back? It just takes away the purpose of him being shown in the first place. He was the one who knows about the moon and ocean spirit, something which was integral for aang to know so he can save the water tribe??? Sighs these big decisions they’ve made man, it shouldn’t have been changed
My non-fan friend response to this episode: “Oh! Scary!” Then “Oh! Aang made a friend” . It never occurred to me that Koh could be a potential ally in the future. Huge change, yes. But to the non-super fan, this might make way more sense.
I absolutely hated the they portrayed Roku Man. Why make change him into comedic relief when it completely erases his true personality in the show. I swear some of the big decisions the writers did was just idiotic.
While I don't disagree with Roku's goofiness at the start being a part of his character, it should've been slightly toned down from what it was. Remember that Roku trained with Gyatzo.
It was nice to see roku BUT!!!! i just didn't like how roku was kinda of a well A bit of a troll meeting aang it felt kinda forced like i know this adaptation is its own separate thing but at the same time in my opinion he should've told aang about the comet also which is very pivotal and important for aang's Journey
The show runners already established that they’re not gonna do that yet because of the fact that they have to deal with the real life circumstances of the actors aging so it would look very weird if these actors aged up as much as they do but also kept the year long comment plot line in
3:01 Sorry for being so nit-picky and negative, but despite the 41st division plot being executed well and a nice addition to the story... it is so cliché, I'm sorry, but I can't ignore that. It just didn't really seem all that good for me. Just my sour opinion.
Ugh what a lame take. I absolutely loved it and it also sets up Zukos journey as the future fire lord. They're his first loyal subjects. So I call cap.
This episode was crap, they butchered the story of the og in this one season. Really hope they don’t bother adapting the rest. So many actors don’t fit their roles and cannot act to save their life.
You "really hope they don’t bother adapting the rest" of the series just because you don't like it? Man, that's just mean... why would you deny those who do like it the opportunity to continue the journey? - if you don't care for it you can simply not watch it!
How they did Zuko's backstory of his banishment far superior in this rendition than the original was indeed the highlight for me as well. Might as well be the best episode of this remake, too!
ATLA may be named as such, but it's really not about Aang so much as it is the lives he affected. The heart of the story is Zuko's redemption, easily, and his acceptance of Iroh as the father he deserved and always needed is the central catharsis of the series. Toph learns to let her guard down, be vulnerable, depend on others. Sokka's journey of discovery. Katara's realization of her strength. Aang achieves balance not through his power as the avatar but his family he found along the way. Each representing an element, and Sokka who finds that to be a hero through selflessness and humility. Without Aang, none of these characters would have achieved all that they did. The Avatar who inspired hope when the world was darkest.
Zuko: How do I look?
Iroh, internally: Like Lu Ten.
Iroh: Like a prince.
They try to establish Roku as a new warm friend for Aang to replace Kyatso. Being a 12 year old, Aang has a more believable connection with someone like him than with a super serious guy. They moved some of the serious and distant bits to Kyoshi, while Roku steps in the void that Kyatso created. I think in the long term Roku will serve as Aangs guide that cheers him up which is very well needed with all the burden talk the kid had in this season, he looked borderline depressed
I actually really like the addition of a sense of humor for Roku. After all, if you can’t mess with the young, what’s the point of growing old?
It was my favorite episode of the show, the fact that they took time in this episode and almost a whole cartoon episode was dedicated into the LA episode was probably the reason
Imo this episode is better than most book 1 episode in the OG Show 🔥
I'd agree 100%
Same👍👍
I’d say so ya there are a few it’s better then
The expansion of zuko's crew is SO good. if every change was as good as this one this show would be a masterpiece. The blue spirit was incredible. I didn't really care for roku, but i can understand trying to make him someone similar to aang in personality, it means they can further compare his failure in the future to the stakes aang faces in trying to end the war without violence.
Considering how serious they try to make this version. I actually liked rokus portrayal. It actually gave him character and personality. He's the closest to aang, and for him to be wayyyy too serious would have a differnt vibe. We can tell roku is wise, and powerful. The fact he's able to be light hearted in this case, was a welcomed relief in my opinion. I sort of wish they they did more of that in the original. It may help to balance it out a bit. I think they portrayed roku rather well. Even better than I expected.
This was the best episode for me. The storm and the blue spirit have similar themes with Zuko that being defying his nation and family. I also really liked the twist that Zuko protecting his crew is why he was banished and that the crew really start to respect him in a whole new way after learning the truth was just so good.
In this season episode two and episode six are my favorite episodes I liked how they presented Zuko's story more than how they presented his story in the original series I felt more connected to him in live action and I also liked that they also added the scene where Ozai banishes Zuko and that they changed the way where the team refers to him because in the original series I felt that after Iroh told the story they felt sorry for him but in live action they change because they have a duty they feel they live because of him and I was also happy that they recreated the scene between Zuko and Aang in live action they did a lot of good things in the episode also the scene when ozai cries that he is burning his son's face a lot of people thought it hurt him but he was just disappointed that zuko turned out to be like his mother
What I want to know is, why did Roku steal Koh’s totem in the first place?? Poor evil centipede monster just wants his mama, seems like a pretty jerk thing to do without any context… I’m assuming maybe there’s some backstory to this in the comics, just seems weird to find out Roku stole something like that without giving any reason as to why. I’m very happy they found a way to adapt Koh, but it was a little clumsily done.
Also, all of the additions to Zuko’s background were just phenomenal! Saving the 41st division, Ozai being so intentional when he scarred him, specifically telling him it was all because of Zuko’s compassion - and the way they paid Zuko such respect when he returned to the ship! Now that warmed my heart, so good to see. I hope if they get a second season the lieutenant at least will have a minor role to play, I love how they developed him and would like to see him supporting Zuko and Iroh in some way in the future.
I understand where you're coming from with Rokku's character change and I also felt the same the first time i watched the episode but when i think about it, when you made Rokku this wise, serious teacher figure, you'll have all of the four previous avatars in Kyoshi, Kuruk, Yangchen and Rokku essentially having the same personality. Kyoshi being a ruthless serious warrior, Kuruk being angsty traumatized by his past mistakes, Yangchen and Roku being wise teachers to Aang. We needed to have the Avatar who would be a little more light hearted and who Aang would have a better connection with. And in the original show, its Rokku he has the best connection with hence why giving him an Uncle Iroh-esque sense of humor is not as much of a bad idea.
My counterargument to that is that we already have the comedic but wise character on Aang's spirit side, and that was Gyatso. Roku acted like a bootleg gyatso there without the personal connection to aang, so the humor felt forced and awkward. Rokku should have been the wise logical one, as he would have the personal experience of knowing what happens if you let your feelings get in the way of your responsibility, and we see a bit of that at the end of their talk in the live-action.
@@MrE_But Gyatso is not an avatar.
I guess that’s certainly one way to look at it
I enjoyed this episode the most! The one moment during the Agni Kye when Zuko could’ve nail Ozai but chose not to was great for the reason that the scar Ozai would’ve had if Zuko followed through is the scar he gave him instead, that was awesome =)
I like how zuko actually fought back against ozai
@@dav_zee I did too. Tho idk how I feel about Ozai nearly tearing up while scarring his son. Either you are evil enough to ruthlessly hurt your son that way, or you are sympathetic enough to forgive him, but this version of Ozai has some humanity it seems.
@@MrE_🧐 I saw more of the tearing up as disappointment in Zuko. The narcissistic, abuser that is Ozai “see what you made me do?“
What I love about the scene with Roku is that he talks about diplomacy. A firebender who gives Aang this advice seems very special and shows that not every firebender goes only for the fight! 😉
Well ya Roku was the most diplomatic of them all he didn't fall for the fire nation propaganda that Sozin tried to put forward
One of the best episodes in the LA,if not the best. They adapted this one so well. They need to learn from this one for season 2.
I think Roku was initially less serious as a counter to Kyoshi who was far more serious earlier on, but that passes quickly in the interaction as he sternly reinforces that Aang has to walk the lonely path as the avatar. I hope we get the flashback of Sozin and Roku's duel on the volcano.
I think that they make Roku so much more comedic to contrast him from Kyoshi and Koruk. Those two came across as incredibly serious and stern and I think they want to give Aang an Avatar that he'll really wants to connect more.
my 1st favorite ep because mostly zouk's back story
nice
I really like the reveal that the fleet Zuko objected to sacrificing ended up being the one on his ship, great expansion there.
loved the zuko and 41st backstory 🔥
By far my favourite episode in this season! Loved it. I really loved the scenes with iroh and ozai, it just added a bit more depth to thier relationship as brothers (we never got much of that in the OG show). I loved aang and zukos little chat aswell.
This is one of my favourite episodes, the whole back-story and Iroh explaining to Jee about the sacrifice Zuko made is a great addition, with all the flashbacks and the action scenes with Zuko as the blue spirit are indeed awsome.
My 4 issues with this episode are:
Aang's lack of concern/effort for his friends... Aang not trying to escape from Zuko and Iroh on the back of the wagon and then again with Zuko after saving him despite his friends being trapped in the spirit world. The conversation between them was great, however given the plot it seems way off.
June showing up with Nyla on Roku's island and took our 4/5 Fire Sages no problem... I would of loved for their to be more time on the fire sages fighting the one who helps Aang and then attempting to get into the room only to find Roku has locked the doors, this would then setup Aang for a fight scene or a Avatar state moment with Roku to defeat them. Similar to the original playout. June could then of entered the frame for a 1V1 with Aang after it.
The scene with Roku, yeah it's bad...
The final scene with Koh is also terrible, Aang goes, says nothing, puts a totem on the floor and Koh just says nothing and gives his friends (AND EVERYONE ELSE) back...
The Storm and The Blue Spirit are my favorite episodes in the original show hands down. I cannot begin to express how much I love Prince Zuko. He’s easily one of my all time favorites in all of fiction.
I don’t think it’s a coincidence that the best episode stuck the closest to the source material. I loved the flashbacks. I think that’s a testament to how strong the original source material really was. Also Dallas and Daniel Dae Kim were incredibly.
Roku was butchered.
I don’t think Roku was butchered as much as it was a personality change that wasn’t needed with that humor. I don’t know if I’d say it’s a coincidence since even the other episode with the first one has some changes too.
So many comments are saying that Roku had a sense of humor to contrast Kyoshi but I had a different read on it. Aang in this version isn't nearly as bubbly or playful. I think seeing Roku be what Aang (and the audience) expected only for it to be a joke was a welcome change and could provide a postive example to Aang to let go and realize just because he's the avatar doesn't mean he has to be as cold and serious as Kyoshi or Kuruk. He is still an individual.
I'm on my second viewing and even though the speed of Roku's temple (And the performance of Roku) still bugged me, everything else felt pretty damn good.. except Zhao's little speech, that kind of felt like an assistant manager reading off lines from an email. The blue spirit sequence went by way too quickly, imo. There should have been more fighting and stunts by a few minutes. And also.. come on.. Lu Ten's funeral with the leaves from the vine instrumental HURTS my soul. edit: I'm curious if they didn't want Roku to be as stiff as Kyoshi was before and Kuruk would be later to depict them all as kind of stick in the mud characters. Roku DOES have a gentle sarcasm "It's good to see you Aang.. what took you so long?". But here he isn't depicted as wise. Maybe they can do a retcon in Book 2 and make it so that he's more serious but he wanted to give Aang a break from how serious his previous interaction with Kyoshi was. Who knows, though. I like CS Lee but Roku needed to be more Regal.
I remember when he says that line and in a way I don’t think he ever meant to say that out of sarcasm or comedic tone like I genuinely think that he meant that
I didn't see many people talking about that but I hate what they did with the spirit world in this show.
I'm not gonna get into the design looking cheap because i understand the budget limitations. The inclusion of Wan Shi Tong in the previous episode was an unnecessary fan service. They tease the Hei Bai storyline with the forest burned down by the fire nation, with the village where people are being kidnapped by an angry spirit, they even show Hei Bai's corrupted form. But then, everything that Hei Bai did was given to Koh and we didn't even see the panda. Aang just burried the acorn under the scarred Panda statue and that it.
The only thing i liked about the spirit world in live-action is Aang's conversation with Gyatso and the heart wretching moment when he comes back to his hut hoping to have an unlimited amount of time to speak to his friend only to find it empty and abandoned. And a callback to legend of Korra with the fog of lost souls was nice
Idk why but Roku's change didn't bother me one bit. I doubt first time viewers hated it, it's just us fickle day 1 folks. Him being more laid back was fine for me because it was a nice contrast to Kyoshi.
Yeah I loved the Zuko backstory. And I loved getting more/actual conversation between Aang and Zuko here. (no pun intended)
I had more of a problem with the visuals of the Roku conversation than the comedy. It could fit that is a jokester if he was such good friends with Gyatso too. But I felt Roku should've been a much older looking actor and had better looking hair/facial hair. And the environment looked like a 1966 Star Trek set. I love OG Trek, but it was 1966.
I didn't mind the addition of complexity to Koh. I actually LOVED the easter egg of the Mother of Faces from the Zuko's Mom comic. That ws an "Oh Sh!t!" moment for me. Simply not showing emotion wouldn't have got Katara, Sokka, and the others back. And i guess you could say that's solving a problem that created for themselves. BUT I also kinda understand them changing the kindappings from Hei Bai to Koh, since Hei Bai isn't a malevolent spirit, it's just in a lot of pain. That pain line by the fox really touched me in my pain too actually, which felt just like the cartoon often does.
I was still REALLY hoping we'd see Hei Bai turn back into a Panda though 🐼
See that part you mentioned with regard to Zuko‘s mom‘s comic is some thing I didn’t know because I haven’t read any of the comics yet but one day I will
@@uncleirohsteashop yeah maybe they shouldn't have used something only comic readers would know. I actually didn't read them either, but I watched the official recap video on thier channel recently.
I think we can all agree that this was the best episode of the season🙂
The best change they made, was the 41st revelation. I hope this is considered cannon.
Zuko crew suddenly accepting him actually makes sense now. In the cartoon it didnt
Definitely much better done here than in the cartoon simply because of the fact that the crew actually has something personal to them that can connect them with him as to why they forgive him
Interesting. The only parts of this episode I liked were Zuko's sections. Everything else felt like convenient plot devices
The totem thing is definitely a plot device
Favourite episode hands down.
This episode is my favorite of the season so far, still haven’t watched 7 or 8. Also the way they made Roku here threw me off a little too, but I remember his friendship with Sozin and they were parallel to Aang and Zuko in a way. When Roku was younger of course. I’m still on the fence with how I feel about the humor of his character here but so far I don’t think it’s much of a big deal. The episode itself was beyond my expectations and I’m so pleasantly surprised how they pulled it off 🤍
Ep 6 is the best in the show. As for ep 7 and 8, I still laugh at the sight of the girl's wig, they did her so dirty with that. You'll see what I'm talking about
@@MrE_yue’s? I guess I agree and disagree with that.
@@MrE_ lol I thought the same!! I watched some of ep 7 last night. As soon as I saw it I said, oh no girl noooo 😭 but it’s not that bad I think they just made the wig a little too full but oh well 🤣
@@uncleirohsteashop it was nice that they made it to look like her hair pretty much how it is in the OG but they did it a little too full imo. But just a nitpick I think the actress was great 🙂
I get they made Roku into an opposite of tone of Kiyoshi approach to show the difference between the two Avatars and to show Aang/viewer there os no one right way avatar should be like.
I agree for the most part with this analysis, but I felt very strongly that Zuko's defence of the 41st was far superior in the original, the bit about loving their nation only to be betrayed by its leaders was so powerful to me and I felt like the live action version just didn't have that same impact.
Fair enough I think both in their own way are powerful
I really hope for a second season 2 coz there is so much potential for this show, and I agree with Roku, he didn't feel like Roku. I'm just so worried about how they will implement the urgency of this war coz we haven't even seen Aang Waterbend yet😭😭
My hope is we see him waterbending or at least trying at the start of Season 2
I agree with your take on the Roku scene 100%. I also feel like the scene was just weirdly empty, like there are some rocks in the background but it just feels so strange to me.
Well in fairness the cartoon version is just as empty😂
@@uncleirohsteashop lmao fair point
This episode felt so true to the source materials that I couldn’t barely nitpick anything. I will say that my poor boy Roku was not done quite right here. Zuko and Aang moment was actually kinda nice, their conversation was well written. I just really enjoyed this episode a lot! Now I see why I enjoyed episode 1 and 6 a lot cause the creators had a hand in it. Sigh…what this show could have been right?!
You say that but you don’t know if that would’ve been the case for every other episode. After all like you said Roku was not done right and they’re the ones who wrote him that way this episode.
This is the best episode of the series I think!
Nope, one of the worse. They butchered the story big time. Very disappointing being a huge fan of the cartoon.
I also thought this was a great episode and I loved what they added to it. But I agree I didn't care for the changes to Roku's personality so much, although it didn't bother me quite as much as it bothered you.
5:11 so good.
I love the look of these live action adaptations ! The actors are phenomenal, the background is on point, the effects of the elements being 'bended' are mesmerizing, I love this ! Good review 👍💯🔥✨
Aaaaah yes I’ve been waiting for this episode!
i don't know if its only me but the episodes that are one on one with the Og series are absolutely great.The blue spirit is great plus the back story is just Awesome and now i understand why uncle iroh puts up with zuko🔥. i also agree with with roku's part its just not like his character , and i wonder how june also got but we'll just asume. also the other thing that left me wondering is that Aang showed emotions what are they doing with other characters tbh 😭😭but all in all this is a7/10 for me
3:51 I did like the characterization of the leutenant. Well done and well executed.
It didn't sit right with me either, but i think that it probably comes down to needing a balance between kyoshi and roku. If they are both super serious and depressed/angry, it may be a bit much and it gives the impression that all of the past avatars were just grumpy and not different people.
I enjoyed the episode. I feel that Roku was done well ( miss the voice actor's voice though). I feel the way he communicated with Aang was a little silly in regards to his humor but still kinda liked it. Episode was one of the better ones and I do feel too many people are being too critical about the show.
In some parts yes I agree with you on the over critical nature but I have had some issues with the show which are fair and reasonable
@uncleirohsteashop Understood. I see some things I don't really thrilled about but overall I like the series.
I probably would agree with you about Roku if it weren't for how serious Kyoshi and Kuruk were. If every Avatar were serious it probably would have felt redundant and I'm cool with it because it's only like what....10 seconds? Maybe 20? It's not like Roku doesn't know comedy and I don't mind him starting off with a couple of light hearted jokes before moving on to serious matters especially since he's talking to a child.
Everything else though I pretty much agree with you on though.
Fair enough way to look at it it just took me off guard at the start as the first thing to lead with
@@uncleirohsteashop understandable. Roku is my favorite Avatar so this is certainly not how I would have handled his introduction but I don't think this was a bad way to do it either.
Yup! My words exactly. They fumbled the scene with aang and Roku so bad. Didn’t like the dialogue or the interaction or how they portrayed Roku. I get Kyoshi being hard and tough with Aang but Roku too? After just trying to be funny? It was odd and just bad
It was the second best imo.
while watching i was not a fan of roku. he is supposed to be the friendly and wise grandpa and now he acted more like a strict dad. and i get why he would say that you shouldnt have friends because of what happened with him and sozin but without context and saying it so angry gives a entirely wrong message. if in fact one of his friends isnt trust worthy then sure this would make sence. but we all know katara and sokka would never do anything against aang and a good people. i found it very odd.
also i find june very out of place in the palace. i think its strange for her to be on a different island and also that she found a random red piece of wool out of nowhere in the woods. it was way better if zuko had something of aang. they fought multiple times now and he must have been able to get something that has his scent. and secondly i think it would have been better if june intercepts aang when he gets back from the island maybe even with his friends. like an actuall ambush. idk i have many ideas about the series that would have made it a 9.5 instead of a 7
would love to talk about it with knowlageable avatar people
also i hate that the entire winter solstice is just writen out from the episode the entire fire tempel bit could have been so much better if they gave it more time
I wouldn’t say my problem with Roku is that he was getting mad at Aang because I never got that vibe but it was just how he was portrayed at the beginning
i think he was a bit to stern and also the jokes like you said were out of place @@uncleirohsteashop
i didn't like the roku scene either but i think that's mostly rooted in them changing the whole purpose of his visit.
here it seems like not much trouble to talk to roku, so they spent the time with chitchat +the ep's resolution ofc (which was't too interesting either).
in the og roku is rlly important bc this scene is basically the start of the whole plot. introducing the comet and ofc delivering the iconic line "you must do it by summer's end" WHILE aang's doom awaits behind the door.
cracking jokes in the tension the og is unthinkable
I hated the way how Koh was shown earlier when his meeting with aang was meant to be one of the most important and yet scariest encounters in the show. The whole showing no emotions but it was some sort of object that koh wanted back? It just takes away the purpose of him being shown in the first place. He was the one who knows about the moon and ocean spirit, something which was integral for aang to know so he can save the water tribe??? Sighs these big decisions they’ve made man, it shouldn’t have been changed
Yeah I don’t know how I feel about them changing the whole emotion thing to a totem McGuffin
My non-fan friend response to this episode: “Oh! Scary!” Then “Oh! Aang made a friend” .
It never occurred to me that Koh could be a potential ally in the future. Huge change, yes. But to the non-super fan, this might make way more sense.
i was so thrown off by roku 😭like huhh. his vibe as chill and wise made him cool now he’s just another cooky old person
I absolutely hated the they portrayed Roku Man. Why make change him into comedic relief when it completely erases his true personality in the show. I swear some of the big decisions the writers did was just idiotic.
This one probably might have been my least favorite although I imagine maybe if I wanted a second time it might not bother me as much.
7:31 yes YES *YES!*
8:31 What?! There's no way the original creators wrote Roku like that! Wtf?
10:08 I feel the same way.
You do know you can put everything in one comment right lol?
@@uncleirohsteashop I didn't expect to comment/react to so many things.
Ye why did Aang communicating with Roku felt like it was directed by Quentin Tarantino😂😂?!
Lol, dude I just got death threats on my dm for liking the live action version. Geez, people are crazy
Don’t communicate with people like that and just block them report them and ignore them. They are not real fans.
This was definitely my favorite episode of the series, especially after following probably the worst episode of the series
While I don't disagree with Roku's goofiness at the start being a part of his character, it should've been slightly toned down from what it was. Remember that Roku trained with Gyatzo.
It was nice to see roku BUT!!!! i just didn't like how roku was kinda of a well A bit of a troll meeting aang it felt kinda forced like i know this adaptation is its own separate thing but at the same time in my opinion he should've told aang about the comet also which is very pivotal and important for aang's Journey
The show runners already established that they’re not gonna do that yet because of the fact that they have to deal with the real life circumstances of the actors aging so it would look very weird if these actors aged up as much as they do but also kept the year long comment plot line in
3:01 Sorry for being so nit-picky and negative, but despite the 41st division plot being executed well and a nice addition to the story... it is so cliché, I'm sorry, but I can't ignore that. It just didn't really seem all that good for me. Just my sour opinion.
I guess I’m indifferent to you there because I don’t know if I’ve ever seen that many clichés like that one at least not that specific.
Ugh what a lame take. I absolutely loved it and it also sets up Zukos journey as the future fire lord. They're his first loyal subjects. So I call cap.
The reason this episode was awesome it was written by original creators. Episode 1 and 6.
I mean you say that and yet the original creators are responsible for writing roku the way they did and I didn’t like that one bit
5:32 bro are you serious? They get even less screen time in the live-action...
I am Magine maybe if we go back and count it they probably don’t but it certainly felt like they had more in the live action.
@uncleirohsteashop they didn't chase and capture Aang, and in the part where Azula is prscticing archery, they don't get any focus.
The Roku scene was awful. The worst scene in the series IMO. Such a shame too since it followed up the best part of the series
This episode was crap, they butchered the story of the og in this one season. Really hope they don’t bother adapting the rest. So many actors don’t fit their roles and cannot act to save their life.
You "really hope they don’t bother adapting the rest" of the series just because you don't like it? Man, that's just mean... why would you deny those who do like it the opportunity to continue the journey? - if you don't care for it you can simply not watch it!
I don’t know if I agree with that entirely thank you might be pushing it a little too hard😅