One of my favorite things on Avatar is that even when Azula doesnt get any redemption, we can still connect with her and understand her and even feel pain with her fire scream at the end.
I loved her character throughout the show just bc really good villains are fun but watching her unravel was insane. When she finally broke after the Agni Kai I just said “A-Azula…..” and watched in shocked silence
@@ViridianCrisis7 I kinda like when the overconfident villain begins to unravel. It’s like they say “people show their true colors in their most desperate moments” and that’s true for Azula. I think she broke her facade the moment she attacked Katara. She knew the rules of the Agni Kai but also knew she couldn’t beat Zuko head on so she resorted to dirty tricks. But at the same time it allowed Katara to join the duel and that’s how she was ultimately defeated
@@zach415 And we don't give it importance but the way she broke was accurate for her character, she was always ready to betray anyone (maybe not Ty Lee) but then she was "betrayed" by Ty Lee and Mei Mei, so she became ultra paranoic, having hallucinations. They could have broke her in means of ambition, the power, jealousy, etc. But breaking her because of her root issue is the best way to do it.
Katara is my favorite character. Probably ever. She is a survivor of genocide and has disenfranchised since the very beginning. She is bitter and angry at the world for what it’s taken from her, but yet she chooses defiance and compassion in the face of cruelty and oppression. There’s so much poignance and heart in Katara’s story and I’ve learned so much from her growing up. She gets a lot of hate because she’s so human and makes mistakes, but I’m a Katara stan through and through. Zuko and Azula are definitely tied for 2nd place.
She is understandably underrated because the other great characters, and hers is a bit understated in that its a trait that she is too mature and the teammom and falls a bit in th attention, but really amazing is that he is a feminine mature character that also, is a rteenage girl, the romanc obession early, thats hers. And she is a badass. And flawed, and emotional but thats never a focus as she doesnt want to burden others. I mean iots easoer, but such a nuanced feminine yes not taking crap character and he own trauma she carrie and is a teenage girl still. Thats amazing. Also good that hr revenge epiode, thats plain amazing. And shows h is both pretty mature but alo very hurt and emotional, because of what she held down. Othrs say what they feel bad about, she doent , he cares most of the time for others and being diplomatic and , but wow. And it all flows together so well as that one character which is fitting. I think zuko is the best prsonally but katara is second probably.
@@marocat4749 I mean, it's so hard to choose between our four main characters, they're all so good in their own different ways. Unless you add Iroh to the mix, then he's clearly the winner. XD
I didn’t pick up before that Toph will default to hanging on Sokka’s arm when off solid Earth, what a sweet detail. So great that any two of the team make an interesting dynamic.
To be frank, almost all the females were hanging on Sokka's arm in one way or another. Toph kissed Suki thinking she was kissing Sokka. Ty Lee thought he was cute. Yue fell for him. All the poetry ladies liked him. Sokka was the most eligible bachelor of his time.
To this day, Zuko is still the best redemption story I have ever experienced in media. Its only flaw is that we don't get to spend more time with post-faceturn Zuko because he's only with the group for the last half of the last season. That and no Zuko-Toph episode
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723 Not a lot immediately come to mind, despite a lot of series trying to do it. As someone who has seen a bunch of anime, there are way more garbage """redemptions""" than good ones. Gun to my head, I'd say Dalinar from Stormlight Archive is a good one but that's different from Zuko where he starts as an antagonist and then becomes a good guy because with Dalinar we start as a good guy and then get shown the skeletons in his closet later.
@@fenris5932 Mm in anime/manga, there are actually some GREAT redemptions, Endeavor's redemption in Boku no Hero Academia is omg, amazing and fascinating, currently it is heading to its resolution. Hohenheim's redemption in Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood is BEAUTIFUL. Also, Hitotsubashi Nobu Nobu's redemption in Gintama is *great* as well. Oh, I had never thought about this one till today: Eva Heinemann's redemption in Monster, is a 10/10 as well. Naruto, has trash redemptions like Orochimaru's, Kabuto's, Obito's, but Zabuza's redemption is beautiful. Himura Kenshin's redemption in Rurouni Kenshin is just something else. *And, the BEST redemption I have experienced, is on Vinland Saga.* On Live Action series I can think of Jamie Lannister's redemption BUT that redemption was *totally ruined at the end, so no...* but Negan's redemption on TWD is so good. I have read plenty of comics/graphic novels but I haven't found a redemption story yet. On videogames I can't remember any. I am on page 311 of The Way of Kings so I don't know what's going on with Dalinar yet xD, and in books in general, I have only read The Silmarillion, Mistborn and Dune trilogy, I still have to read more.
The lion turtle scene was always cool, but I never used to get emotional over it while I was a kid. I do now. The way I understand it, the lion turtle was telling Aang that he doesn't need to harden his heart in order to survive this harsh world. That just means so much to me.
What I love about Iroh is that like Zuko, he has a sort of redemption tale but it happens off screen, it happened in the past and we get to see the man that went through it all and came out wise and loving. Also he is just funny and loves tea, a man after my own heart. Second favourte it Toph because despite being disabled, she is not weak, she is in fact the opposite. She is very strong and dependent on herself. She is so small and young and people see her as weak but she proves she is just the best. But also she does have weaknesses, like all of us. When I watched Book 1 I enjoyed it. But in Book 2 we get introduced to Toph, have Zuko alone and Iroh's Tale and it made me go from liking the show to adoring it.
I love that you mentioned how Sokka learns to trust people and fight alongside them. One thing I really loved was the gradual evolution of his and Aang's relationship in this respect. At first, Sokka did not trust Aang whatsoever. Didn't trust him, saw him as a threat, thought he was childish and goofy, everything Sokka tried NOT to be... But over time they not only become friends, but also Sokka gains a lot of trust and respect for Aang. He sees that this "goofy kid" is an incredibly powerful bender and, what's more, a very good, genuine and surprisingly responsible person. He begins to trust him, deeply and completely. A great scene to illustrate just how much is when Zuko tries to join the group. When Aang asks the team what they think, Sokka doesn't trust Zuko - but he fully trusts Aang, and he basically says "hey, I trust you, if you think this is a good idea, then I'm with you." Just going from ep. 1 Sokka & Aang to this... melts my fricking heart ;-;
My personal favorite exchange in the whole show is the one where Azula says “I’m sorry it has to end this way, brother” and Zuko says “No you’re not”, and the actor reads it perfectly with just a touch of regret but total resolve. And the reason I love that simple exchange is because if Azula really was the least bit sorry or sad, it wouldn’t be happening. If she was actually capable of that emotion, or of caring about her family, there wouldn’t be a fight. The music during the fight is perfect to underscore it: this is not some noble epic duel for rulership of a nation, it is the death knell of a relationship that should be about love and support, but instead is about anger and selfishness.
I think you forget something: "Let the family physician tend to little ZuZu..." in Azula's mind, Zuko isn't dead. She doesn't want him dead. She does care, in her own, twisted way. But that's the point: she never allows herself any emotional outlet. She's all rage or rationality. All the time. The only other emotion we ever see from her (aside from The Beach episode) is sadistic pleasure at other's suffering. Even her few laughs are cruel. The only halfway good thing she does is that she likes to pun. But in The Beach we do see there is another Azula. A socially awkward girl who can be jealous of her friends and has no clue at all about how to get others to like her. When she loses the two friends she sorta has, she becomes more isolated than ever. Add what she considers a betrayal by her father(literally the only person she looks up to) and then having her 'consolation prize' (being Firelord) snatched away from her at the last second, and its no wonder the poor thing has a mental breakdown.
8:43 To be honest, Sokka always reminded me of Usopp. They are both talented strategists but they're also the least powerful people in their group, with no amazing super power. Because of that they tend to have an inferiority complex. But their devotion towards their friends and standing up to their enemies even if they're scared and outmatched is what makes them such complex and endearing characters.
If you like Sokka you can't really hate Usopp, imo. Yes, they are different characters of course, and Sokka is innately more courageous compared to Usopp at their beginnings, but they both try to be so brave, strong, etc falling short, and growing arrogant, irritable, insecure, etc bc of that. The only major difference is that Usopp is even more flawed, in that he can't really be brave at his start, or at least, it's a huge struggle to be, more so than Sokka. Which makes him even more relatable to me than Sokka, though I love them both.
I think Usopp has less of an ego than Sokka. In fact, he has a huge problem of self-confidence. He is a liar and while brave, he is weak. So he compensates by creating lies about himself. However he never believes them, even though he is sometimes better than what he thinks. On the other hand, Sokka has more ego from the beginning, being the only warrior left in his tribe. His journey is more of humbling than becoming braver or stronger. He actually becomes stronger by rejecting his flawed vision of himself and opening his mind to the real world. While both characters are funny and resourceful,I they play different roles in the story and the groups they belong.
I saw the similarities between these two during this video as well. There are a key few differences that negatively affected Usopp. He didn't have a Katara to mother him, he was completely alone. Not only alone family wise, but he didn't have the support of the village. He wasn't trusted to be a defender, he was looked down on for being the child of a pirate. Sokka was entrusted with the village. He has/had a loving father even if he left them. Sokka has the foundation of love and support, even if it was shaky due to the war. Usopp was left to find his own way all alone while being looked down upon by the village. It's no wonder he wanted attention and doesn't have the confidence to do anything. No one has ever had faith in him before (unless they were small children who are easily dismissed)
I would really like a deep dive into the relationship between Zuko and Iroh its something that resonates deeply with me on a personal level as someone who has struggled with anger and acceptance (especially of themselves) their entire life and having an uncle who was my greatest father figure it is a story that personally means a lot and a deep dive of the intricacies of that story would be amazing
ua-cam.com/video/oNOy6plGUCY/v-deo.html Hello Future Me (Tim Hickson) has an entire playlist diving deep into almost every aspect of all things Avatar.
saying that, it is beautiful how good hearted Hakoda himself is. you can really tell he's a good man. Sokka's inferiority complex with not being strong or good enough causing his warped view of healthy masculinity is a subtle but poignant story point I commend the writers for. they never demeaned the characters due to sex or gender identity.
Zuko’s redemption is the single most satisfying redemption arc I have ever experienced. His whole life was struggle ESPECIALLY his change. to see him fail and fail and fail and then ultimately be rewarded when he chooses the right side… man still brings tears. Avatar is an amazing series and one of the core reasons I decided to start writing/drawing
Iroh is such a great character. The classic goofy, yet wise mentor but has immense strength he will bring to bare when he deems it necessary. Calm and confidant because he is powerful, and powerful because he is calm and confidant.
ATLA is my favorite show of all time precisely because it’s an absolute masterclass in writing a series. A large chunk of that is owed to the characters (almost all of whom are impeccably written) and the world building, but the other aspect that stands out to me is how well the various plot threads tie into each other. Pretty much every twist you see over the back half of Book 3 is foreshadowed somewhere in a previous episode. It’s absolutely brilliant writing
Sokka's "helper"-complex is so interesting. Before he meets Aang, he's surrounded by children and old people - people who need protection. So his protector-ego is massively inflated and rightfully so. Then he meets Aang and EVERYTHING CHANGES. Now he's the weakest. The non-bender. And his ego takes hit after hit after hit. So when he starts a relationshop with Suki, the only other non-bender to join Team Avatar (and a girl on top of that) of course his protector-complex kicks back in - and with full force too. AND THEN in the last episode he literally has to save and protect TOPH of all people - motherf***ing Toph is the one person actually in need of his protection. AND MY MAN does he protect her. No wonder she falls for him.
So glad Merphy is doing Avatar! I especially love Aang's final dilemma - the conflict between (1) his personal values and what's good for his spiritual growth and (2) his duty as the avatar and what's good for the world. Wonder if she'll touch in this..
Tbh, Aang's final solution felt like an ass-pull to me. Energy bending could have been implied earlier. I feel like the last season was good, but rushed. Sokka MASTERS sword-fighting in 1 (maybe 2) days. Aang learns firebending, and a few episodes his firebending could stand up to Ozai. Azula's breakdown was a bit too fast too me. Plus, freaking everyone being a member of the White Lotus felt added on later. Piandao made it clear, but I don't remember Paku, Jeong Jeong or Bumi doing or saying anything involving the white lotus, or even Pai Sho. "We need more members of the White Lotus! Who are the oldest characters? Perfect."
@@tolord1800 The 2nd half, yeah. Honestly, the Blind Bandit is my favorite episode. Not just because Toph is the 2nd best character. But that is part of it.
Honestly I never liked that part of the story mainly because it just felt like Aang was having a hissy fit refusing to do the thing that all of his past incarnations said he should do and the universe just rolled over and handed him a deus ex machina to let him have his way
My favorite thing is how the show subtly reinforces the theme of “friendship is better than power.” Iroh first points this out to Aang in Crossroads of Destiny, but you also see it when Aang tries to give up attachments ti master the Avatar State and nearly dies, and ends up surviving only because of his primary attachment to Katara. Friendship consistently proves to be more powerful in securing victory and love and life than actual power.
I dunno what it is about merphy talking about my fave shows and putting into words the stuff I love, but I find myself time and time again tear up listening to those analyses. Well done! Personally for me, toph was also the most relatable character for me, for very similar reasons.
I would love an entire video focusing on iroh and his impact on his surroundings/ places & people I love how he is a constant reminder throughout the series not all fire benders are toxic/evil Also the fact Sokka can’t remember his mother’s face it’s heartbreaking since he looks a lot like his mother
With the news that the creators have their own studio and are working on more avatar content, I’d love to see you do a video on where you would want them to take the story next. I feel like every fan has ideas on how they would love for the universe to be expanded and I’d want to hear your perspective!!
I understand your reflection of Toph. I had/have the same issues as someone with disabilities myself. Especially looking at acts of kindness as being looked down upon. It’s great to be reminded that this isn’t always the case. Love AtlA thank you for the videos!
I understand my ex more now, she identified and liked Toph a lot. She might have a genetic desease and is very self-sufficient/it's very important to her. The disability part I totally forgot, but it makes a lot of sense.
To really hammer home the severity of Katara's trauma: while maybe not entirely obvious in the show, Katara saw her mom her mom burn to death. It's a wonder she's as well adjusted as she is.
i think one of the things that helps this series is it gets progressively better. Season 2 is much better than season 1, and season 3 somehow leaves season 2 in the dust. This show even somehow does a good recap episode.
After 18 years i finally watched this show and it was amazing, its awesome that the show is great for adults watching without nastalgia it's just that good
This is one of my favorite shows of all time, and I am 100% here for all of these videos! I know the Last Agni kai has been talked to death, but it's just such an awesome scene. I hope to see a deep dive of Iroh, too!
I also really love the fact that you said aang is more of a natural bc he’s already mastered an element (that and I’d say water and air are close in relation) I’ve never thought about that before but it makes so much sense thank you
I would LOVE if you can do an analysis of Azula. She, in my opinion, is one of the best villians ever written. Desite being a truly evil person, her fall to madness at the end genuinely breaks my heart, every time. The fight between her and Zuko is one of the best scenes ever in the history if cinema/tv. Period.
Damn, the way you presented this stuff made me tear up a couple of times. You did a really great job of finding the core of each character and it made it really difficult for me not to completely empathize with each character.
Its been a while since an Avatar vid from Mephy!! what a treat, your first dive into the series were the videos that dragged me to your channel!! Amazing stuff!!!
I can not possibly describe how this show makes me feel. After my friend passed away I felt so lost and sad, with the announcement of Avatar studios I cried for joy for something for the first time in months.
I think it’s worth mentioning the moment Zuko found out he’s also related to avatar Roku helped push for his redemption arc. It gave Zuko a clear view that he doesn’t have to choose the path set before his father. In fact, it was his father’s paradigm that burned his face just for speaking out of turn. It was the Avatar’s version of “I am your father” from Star Wars. And like Luke from Star Wars, Zuko is faced with a decision of which path he wants to follow, except this time he’s rejecting the ideals he thought he originally wanted and pursue the “light” instead.
Avatar is also my favorite show ever! And characters are what really make it shine!! I love whenever you do a deep dive on this incredible story because it's like we're freaking out over its awesomeness together!
Everytime I open youtube Murph is talking about another series that's so near and dear to me and I couldn't ask for more. Really looking forward to hearing more of your thoughts on this series.
I just watched Avatar TLA for the first time in my life and it just made me feel so wholesome ♥️ Now that I finished it I'm also feeling kinda sad and nostalgic :( It was a beautiful experience.
I loved watching your Avatar journey. From wondering if you would like it to absolutely loving it. And your insight has given me, a fans since it aired, some differs prospective. Thanks for what you do.
Seeing someone pick this show up so long after it has been released, talking about it as their favorite show ever, is so satisfying. ATLA is definitely and objectively the best (completed) show that has ever been made. Seeing that it still lands with new audiences the same way it did all those years ago when it came out just re-affirms this point. The first show I have ever watched that I thought might take the crown from ALTA is Arcane. It is only one season in, so it is hard to say whether or not the series will remain a contender throughout, much less end with taking the crown, but it has the potential so far. It has many of the same things that made ALTA stand above the rest; Complex characters and interpersonal relationships. The ability to weave every minute detail into the bigger picture. Masterful music and visuals to perfectly capture and enhance every story beat. Arcane season 1 is a cut above the rest and I really hope the complete story holds up to this incredibly high standard the way ALTA arguably not only held, but surpassed as the story progressed. I am definitely looking forward to what is in store.
Avatar was one of my favorite series when I was a kid. It aired on Nickelodeon late at night and I would beg my mom to let me stay up and watch it 😅 It didn't help that I'm Ukrainian and my parents blindly dislike all American media. I finally watched it from start to finish when I was 14 and got my own smart phone. Now it's almost 10 years later and watching this makes me want to watch this series again
So I have been watching you on and off for a few years now, but one thing that I absolutely loved seeing is your gradual realization in how amazing this world and series is. I was so excited when you first announced you were watching season 1 for the first time and its been so cool watching a new fan blossom. I know I am a bit late to this video but Its great that this show still grasps people almost 20 years later.
The last season is for sure my favorite cause although I've always loved team Avatar I've never had any preference for anyone on the team, but when Zuko finally gets his redemption he immediately became my favorite and I don't really know exactly why, but his humility and persistence to change were captivating, the only thing that made me upset was not having more time to see this "new" Zuko❤️ (ps: of course that outside the main avatar team, Iroh is my favorite hahaha)
You should check out the Kyoshi novels. There's 2 of them. I think how they decided to do her origin story is pretty interesting. There's a Yangchen novel coming out on July 19th as well.
Not me crying everytime anyone speaks about this show and these characters cause I love it so much and it touches me so deeply even though its just a show and I should be an adult about this but this show is sooooo good ughh
I would love to see an examination from you about how the character development of one character depends on and reflects the traits and character development of the others. You touched on it here, but I think that that would be a really rich area of focus.
Zuko needed to fail in his redemption arc in ba sing se to really understand what it is he truly wants. Finally having everything he worked so hard to get back after being banished made him realize how much he really didn’t want it & all those years away with Iroh showed him the good side of him that was there all along. His redemption arc is perfection. My favorite character aside from iroh ♥️
I felt those chats about Toph. I found growing up I resonated with (probably) Saka the most, but I found comfort in a lot of all of the characters struggles and growth. I'm so curious about what your favourite episodes and even which book is your favourite 🍃 More episodes please 🥳
I love how these characters are great characters and great people to their core but are still just human and are not flawless. They have their flaws, they're real, and it's beautiful. Their growths as individuals and a group. From beginning to end. This show is so powerful and so beautiful in so many ways. (Suki is part of Team Avatar, and I love her and her relationship with Sokka.) Katara and Sokka are my all-time favorite characters, and they have my favorite relationship in the show! The fact that Katara and Sokka have to grow up fast to be there for their tribe, and have to take different responsibilities, with Kata being the caretaker and Sokka being the protector, is sad. Katara: "I will never turn my back on people who need!" Sokka: "You're my sister, and I will never turn my back on you." Zuko's character development is amazing and everything, (I love Zuko and Iroh's relationship) but I LOVE Sokka's development. That sexist guy from season one was NOT the Sokka who let his girlfriend take control from season three. You also see his confident and ego slowly decade, because he's around these powerful benders and begins to feel like he's useless, when he's not. He's their leader, good with a sword and a boomerang, and intelligent. I love Sokka and Toph's friendship. I also love how the group see Toph as this strong and sufficient person so much that they forgot that she's blind so often, which made for so many hilarious and amazing scenes. I also think Toph needed that, because people treated who has if she's weak or broken because she's blind. But they didn't, and it was beautiful. I only like Katara and Aang as friends. Aang tried to push himself on Katara, which was not okay. Plus, she never saw him as anything but a little brother, until the last five minutes. I'm sorry, but no 14-year-old girl is going to have a crush on a 12-year-old boy. Their romantic scenes make me cringe SO bad. I'm a hardcore Katara and Zuko shipper. The scene where Katara and Zuko talked and confided in Ba Sing Se. When Zuko tried to get Katara to forgive him and cared SO MUCH about what she thought of him. The scene when Katara forgave Zuko. The scene when Zuko jumps in front of lightening, sacrificing himself, to save Katara. In my mind, they are cannon and endgame.
Wow, i’m over here thinking about my own struggles and personality flaws. What a great breakdown of these amazing characters. I’m excited for the next one
Avatar is a perfectly imperfect gem, and I love it. If you have not seen the show Buffy, I would HIGHLY recommend for excellent characters and arcs. It hits home in so many different ways, and the emotions are yanked out of you. I realize it's not the same genre at all, but I can't help but think of the fantastic ensemble cast comparisons
Love avatar. It's still my favorite show to this day. Is it crazy to say that zuko goes from a leading antagonist to the protagonist by the end of the show. By s3 I'm rooting for him more than I am even rooting for aang. In the day of black sun the most important and iconic part is his standoff with his father and him redirecting lightning. In the series fanale the last agni kai between him and azula is a scene and fight I'm more exciting and emotionally attached to then aang vs ozai. The last episode is titled: Sozens comit part 4: Avatar Aang. I personally think it should be titled Firelord Zuko As the episode really culminates in zukos coronation, and they say "All hail fire Lord Zuko" Love the video, sorry for such a long comment. Don't have many people who I know who watched the show so nice to talk about it. Thx
I need to keep watching avatar. Seems like everyone is watching it for the first time right now. I’ve seen most of series in clips (no really. I really have seen more than half of it from clips lol) but only sat and watched most of the first season in order. Toph is my favorite. She’s sarcastic and hilarious.
I would absolutely love to hear you talk about Azula, Mai and Ty Lee!! I think they all need more attention, especially Mai and Ty Lee because they are mostly supporting characters, but they are still SOOO complex especially when you try to pick apart every scene they're in in detail. They need more love And Azula of course should be getting talked about too because in my opinion she's one of the best written villains of all time
I might need another video on the other characters! I love this show even in my adulthood because I always found the storyline complex yet simple enough for a child to understand. I love Prince Zuko's story. I never really got behind Legend of Korra, but I also didn't give it a chance, because it's hard to top a masterpiece.
I love Avatar the last Airbender! Typically, I don’t watch shows more than twice if they are any good but I watched Avatar four times. You review of the characters was very enjoyable and refreshing. You should do a second video exploring the other characters. I would love to hear your take on uncle Iroh and the tale of Ba Sing Se episode.
I am so happy 😀 😀and impressed for the people who took this (ATLA and LOK) and I am so happy.The story was so good that I’ve watched it multiple times. And now I watch it on You Tube. I am also happy 😃 😀 that Aang has people who protect him.
My favorite characters are Zuko, Toph and Mai. There is something about breaking away from your comfort zone and not becoming what other people want you to be while following your heart and passion that just makes these characters so damn good for me.
I think Avatar would win perfection status is they did a better foreshadowing on power-bending, because yes, we learn that the world in avatar is very mystical, but there is none info about the lion turtle at the end. The idea of an arc for Aang to reach sort of nirvana is great but it was way too quick in my opinion.
One of the reasons I always connected with Zuko is because I have an older brother who was troubled and kept relapsing into bad behavior and it always felt like such a real construct of that patricular type of angry young man. Your help might go unheeded, its easy to get your hopes up when they are on the right road and devestating when they relapse, but they can be different and its a combination of outside love and support as well as interior reckoning that makes it happen.
I agree with everything you said. I think Zuko is the most compelling of the main cast. Something to note about his characterization is the numerical motif of 2. For example, his scar is an external representation of extrinsic stimuli. His father scared him for being morally just in his denouncing of the fire Nation's plans. Zuko was then burned, leaving a mark that showed he was now undergoing a change. It was the seed from which his eventual redemption sprouted.
Sokka was also the first person to trust Zuko after he join the group. He even put his life in Zuko's hands in the boiling rock almost immediately after he joined.
I'm a simple person, I see an Avatar video from Merphy, I click.
You could have left out "from merphy" and still got my like 😂
@@jacobleyshon1399 LOL, for me it's about the person presenting and Merph is one of my favourites. Spread the love if you get what I mean.
I see myself reflected in this comment
I’m a simpler person. I see an Avatar video, and click
This is my life motto
One of my favorite things on Avatar is that even when Azula doesnt get any redemption, we can still connect with her and understand her and even feel pain with her fire scream at the end.
I loved her character throughout the show just bc really good villains are fun but watching her unravel was insane. When she finally broke after the Agni Kai I just said “A-Azula…..” and watched in shocked silence
@@ViridianCrisis7 I kinda like when the overconfident villain begins to unravel. It’s like they say “people show their true colors in their most desperate moments” and that’s true for Azula. I think she broke her facade the moment she attacked Katara. She knew the rules of the Agni Kai but also knew she couldn’t beat Zuko head on so she resorted to dirty tricks. But at the same time it allowed Katara to join the duel and that’s how she was ultimately defeated
@@zach415 And we don't give it importance but the way she broke was accurate for her character, she was always ready to betray anyone (maybe not Ty Lee) but then she was "betrayed" by Ty Lee and Mei Mei, so she became ultra paranoic, having hallucinations.
They could have broke her in means of ambition, the power, jealousy, etc. But breaking her because of her root issue is the best way to do it.
literally my fave thing!!!
Her final outcry...it shoots right through me.
Katara is my favorite character. Probably ever.
She is a survivor of genocide and has disenfranchised since the very beginning. She is bitter and angry at the world for what it’s taken from her, but yet she chooses defiance and compassion in the face of cruelty and oppression.
There’s so much poignance and heart in Katara’s story and I’ve learned so much from her growing up. She gets a lot of hate because she’s so human and makes mistakes, but I’m a Katara stan through and through. Zuko and Azula are definitely tied for 2nd place.
The blood bending episode with Katara and Zuko scared the fuck out of me but its also SO good.
Finally some love for Katara! I like her too, I get why people feel different then me about here but I enjoy hearing some likeminded people exist.
She is understandably underrated because the other great characters, and hers is a bit understated in that its a trait that she is too mature and the teammom and falls a bit in th attention, but really amazing is that he is a feminine mature character that also, is a rteenage girl, the romanc obession early, thats hers. And she is a badass. And flawed, and emotional but thats never a focus as she doesnt want to burden others.
I mean iots easoer, but such a nuanced feminine yes not taking crap character and he own trauma she carrie and is a teenage girl still. Thats amazing. Also good that hr revenge epiode, thats plain amazing. And shows h is both pretty mature but alo very hurt and emotional, because of what she held down. Othrs say what they feel bad about, she doent , he cares most of the time for others and being diplomatic and , but wow. And it all flows together so well as that one character which is fitting.
I think zuko is the best prsonally but katara is second probably.
@@marocat4749 I mean, it's so hard to choose between our four main characters, they're all so good in their own different ways.
Unless you add Iroh to the mix, then he's clearly the winner. XD
Exactly my thoughts. I LOVE katara. She deserves so much more appreciation. Her heart is so admirable 💛
I didn’t pick up before that Toph will default to hanging on Sokka’s arm when off solid Earth, what a sweet detail. So great that any two of the team make an interesting dynamic.
To be frank, almost all the females were hanging on Sokka's arm in one way or another. Toph kissed Suki thinking she was kissing Sokka. Ty Lee thought he was cute. Yue fell for him. All the poetry ladies liked him. Sokka was the most eligible bachelor of his time.
To this day, Zuko is still the best redemption story I have ever experienced in media. Its only flaw is that we don't get to spend more time with post-faceturn Zuko because he's only with the group for the last half of the last season. That and no Zuko-Toph episode
Zuko's redemption is magnificent.
Which other redemption stories come close or are at the level in your opinion?
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723 Not a lot immediately come to mind, despite a lot of series trying to do it. As someone who has seen a bunch of anime, there are way more garbage """redemptions""" than good ones. Gun to my head, I'd say Dalinar from Stormlight Archive is a good one but that's different from Zuko where he starts as an antagonist and then becomes a good guy because with Dalinar we start as a good guy and then get shown the skeletons in his closet later.
@@fenris5932 Darth Vader?
@@fenris5932
Mm in anime/manga, there are actually some GREAT redemptions, Endeavor's redemption in Boku no Hero Academia is omg, amazing and fascinating, currently it is heading to its resolution. Hohenheim's redemption in Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood is BEAUTIFUL. Also, Hitotsubashi Nobu Nobu's redemption in Gintama is *great* as well. Oh, I had never thought about this one till today: Eva Heinemann's redemption in Monster, is a 10/10 as well. Naruto, has trash redemptions like Orochimaru's, Kabuto's, Obito's, but Zabuza's redemption is beautiful. Himura Kenshin's redemption in Rurouni Kenshin is just something else.
*And, the BEST redemption I have experienced, is on Vinland Saga.*
On Live Action series I can think of Jamie Lannister's redemption BUT that redemption was *totally ruined at the end, so no...* but Negan's redemption on TWD is so good.
I have read plenty of comics/graphic novels but I haven't found a redemption story yet. On videogames I can't remember any.
I am on page 311 of The Way of Kings so I don't know what's going on with Dalinar yet xD, and in books in general, I have only read The Silmarillion, Mistborn and Dune trilogy, I still have to read more.
@@wyattziel7438 mm I don't know, Darth Vader's is good but not that good.
The lion turtle scene was always cool, but I never used to get emotional over it while I was a kid. I do now. The way I understand it, the lion turtle was telling Aang that he doesn't need to harden his heart in order to survive this harsh world. That just means so much to me.
I NEVER thought about that 💔❤️
What I love about Iroh is that like Zuko, he has a sort of redemption tale but it happens off screen, it happened in the past and we get to see the man that went through it all and came out wise and loving. Also he is just funny and loves tea, a man after my own heart. Second favourte it Toph because despite being disabled, she is not weak, she is in fact the opposite. She is very strong and dependent on herself. She is so small and young and people see her as weak but she proves she is just the best. But also she does have weaknesses, like all of us.
When I watched Book 1 I enjoyed it. But in Book 2 we get introduced to Toph, have Zuko alone and Iroh's Tale and it made me go from liking the show to adoring it.
I love that you mentioned how Sokka learns to trust people and fight alongside them. One thing I really loved was the gradual evolution of his and Aang's relationship in this respect. At first, Sokka did not trust Aang whatsoever. Didn't trust him, saw him as a threat, thought he was childish and goofy, everything Sokka tried NOT to be... But over time they not only become friends, but also Sokka gains a lot of trust and respect for Aang. He sees that this "goofy kid" is an incredibly powerful bender and, what's more, a very good, genuine and surprisingly responsible person. He begins to trust him, deeply and completely. A great scene to illustrate just how much is when Zuko tries to join the group. When Aang asks the team what they think, Sokka doesn't trust Zuko - but he fully trusts Aang, and he basically says "hey, I trust you, if you think this is a good idea, then I'm with you." Just going from ep. 1 Sokka & Aang to this... melts my fricking heart ;-;
My personal favorite exchange in the whole show is the one where Azula says “I’m sorry it has to end this way, brother” and Zuko says “No you’re not”, and the actor reads it perfectly with just a touch of regret but total resolve.
And the reason I love that simple exchange is because if Azula really was the least bit sorry or sad, it wouldn’t be happening. If she was actually capable of that emotion, or of caring about her family, there wouldn’t be a fight.
The music during the fight is perfect to underscore it: this is not some noble epic duel for rulership of a nation, it is the death knell of a relationship that should be about love and support, but instead is about anger and selfishness.
I think you forget something: "Let the family physician tend to little ZuZu..." in Azula's mind, Zuko isn't dead. She doesn't want him dead. She does care, in her own, twisted way. But that's the point: she never allows herself any emotional outlet. She's all rage or rationality. All the time. The only other emotion we ever see from her (aside from The Beach episode) is sadistic pleasure at other's suffering. Even her few laughs are cruel. The only halfway good thing she does is that she likes to pun. But in The Beach we do see there is another Azula. A socially awkward girl who can be jealous of her friends and has no clue at all about how to get others to like her. When she loses the two friends she sorta has, she becomes more isolated than ever. Add what she considers a betrayal by her father(literally the only person she looks up to) and then having her 'consolation prize' (being Firelord) snatched away from her at the last second, and its no wonder the poor thing has a mental breakdown.
Toph maybe put walls literally and figuratively around herself, but put her in a box and she'll literally invent a new form of bending to escape.
The only containment she wants is her own.
8:43 To be honest, Sokka always reminded me of Usopp. They are both talented strategists but they're also the least powerful people in their group, with no amazing super power. Because of that they tend to have an inferiority complex. But their devotion towards their friends and standing up to their enemies even if they're scared and outmatched is what makes them such complex and endearing characters.
If you like Sokka you can't really hate Usopp, imo. Yes, they are different characters of course, and Sokka is innately more courageous compared to Usopp at their beginnings, but they both try to be so brave, strong, etc falling short, and growing arrogant, irritable, insecure, etc bc of that. The only major difference is that Usopp is even more flawed, in that he can't really be brave at his start, or at least, it's a huge struggle to be, more so than Sokka. Which makes him even more relatable to me than Sokka, though I love them both.
They are both what I call as the Batman characters. Having no super powers, but strategic and resourceful, good with their tools and total chad
I think Usopp has less of an ego than Sokka. In fact, he has a huge problem of self-confidence. He is a liar and while brave, he is weak. So he compensates by creating lies about himself. However he never believes them, even though he is sometimes better than what he thinks.
On the other hand, Sokka has more ego from the beginning, being the only warrior left in his tribe. His journey is more of humbling than becoming braver or stronger. He actually becomes stronger by rejecting his flawed vision of himself and opening his mind to the real world.
While both characters are funny and resourceful,I they play different roles in the story and the groups they belong.
I saw the similarities between these two during this video as well. There are a key few differences that negatively affected Usopp. He didn't have a Katara to mother him, he was completely alone. Not only alone family wise, but he didn't have the support of the village. He wasn't trusted to be a defender, he was looked down on for being the child of a pirate. Sokka was entrusted with the village. He has/had a loving father even if he left them. Sokka has the foundation of love and support, even if it was shaky due to the war. Usopp was left to find his own way all alone while being looked down upon by the village. It's no wonder he wanted attention and doesn't have the confidence to do anything. No one has ever had faith in him before (unless they were small children who are easily dismissed)
He does learn the Way of the Sword in a couple of days. That's practically a super power.
Avatar has Iroh, thats all it needs to be an incredible serie, because he is awesome, best uncle, best human.
Iroh is GOATed, also the Zuko-Iroh reunion scene never fails to make me cry
I would really like a deep dive into the relationship between Zuko and Iroh its something that resonates deeply with me on a personal level as someone who has struggled with anger and acceptance (especially of themselves) their entire life and having an uncle who was my greatest father figure it is a story that personally means a lot and a deep dive of the intricacies of that story would be amazing
ua-cam.com/video/oNOy6plGUCY/v-deo.html
Hello Future Me (Tim Hickson) has an entire playlist diving deep into almost every aspect of all things Avatar.
Yeeeees!
One thing that’s not talked about enough is how without his dad around, sokka develops a toxic idea of masculinity
saying that, it is beautiful how good hearted Hakoda himself is. you can really tell he's a good man. Sokka's inferiority complex with not being strong or good enough causing his warped view of healthy masculinity is a subtle but poignant story point I commend the writers for. they never demeaned the characters due to sex or gender identity.
Zuko’s redemption is the single most satisfying redemption arc I have ever experienced. His whole life was struggle ESPECIALLY his change. to see him fail and fail and fail and then ultimately be rewarded when he chooses the right side… man still brings tears. Avatar is an amazing series and one of the core reasons I decided to start writing/drawing
Iroh is such a great character. The classic goofy, yet wise mentor but has immense strength he will bring to bare when he deems it necessary. Calm and confidant because he is powerful, and powerful because he is calm and confidant.
ATLA is my favorite show of all time precisely because it’s an absolute masterclass in writing a series. A large chunk of that is owed to the characters (almost all of whom are impeccably written) and the world building, but the other aspect that stands out to me is how well the various plot threads tie into each other. Pretty much every twist you see over the back half of Book 3 is foreshadowed somewhere in a previous episode. It’s absolutely brilliant writing
00:00:00 ⟾ *Overview* - Story, Worldbuilding, bending
00:00:17 ⟾ Overview - Themes, Emotions
00:00:27 ⟾ *Intro* - *Characters*
00:00:52 ⟾ *Schedule* - other videos
00:01:25 ⟾ *Katara* - character traits
00:01:52 ⟾ Katara - Backstory: motherly role, Sokka
00:03:07 ⟾ Katara - burdens, responsibilities
00:03:25 ⟾ Katara - bending, determination
00:04:00 ⟾ Katara - loyalty, devotion
00:04:17 ⟾ Katara - grief, anger, healing, revenge
00:05:54 ⟾ Katara - Summation
00:06:16 ⟾ *Sokka* - Backstory, growing up too fast
00:06:54 ⟾ Sokka - character traits
00:07:35 ⟾ Sokka - ‘warrior’, protector, humility
00:08:32 ⟾ Sokka - character arc, fighting with vs. for
00:08:50 ⟾ Sokka - weakness, insecurity
00:09:22 ⟾ Sokka - finding his place
00:09:38 ⟾ Sokka - compassion, Toph
00:10:13 ⟾ Sokka - Summation
00:10:29 ⟾ *Aang* - Backstory: running from duty, Appa
00:11:41 ⟾ Aang - character traits
00:12:06 ⟾ Aang - losing control, Katara
00:12:41 ⟾ Aang - air nomad, advice vs. principle
00:14:03 ⟾ *Toph* - Backstory: fragile vs. prodigy
00:14:18 ⟾ Toph - accepting help, self sufficiency
00:14:48 ⟾ Toph - *past-Merphy Relatability*: gruffness, rudeness, misunderstandings, limitations/deficiencies, projection
00:16:24 ⟾ Toph - Summation: growth
00:16:43 ⟾ *Zuko* - Backstory: family, thirst for approval
00:17:34 ⟾ Zuko - small changes: Iroh, Redemption failings: unfulfilling
00:19:28 ⟾ Zuko - taking responsibility: confronting Ozai scene
00:19:52 ⟾ Zuko - taking responsibility: team avatar rejection
00:20:12 ⟾ Zuko - Redemption, Forgiveness, Love, Healing
00:21:21 ⟾ Zuko - vs. Azula scene, sibling dynamics
00:22:58 ⟾ *Character Work* - complex individual arcs
00:23:23 ⟾ Character Work - interwoven arcs
00:23:59 ⟾ Character Work - complex mirroring
00:24:14 ⟾ *Other Characters* - Azula, Ty Lee, Mai, Iroh {no Iroh this video!!? *slams keyboard}
00:24:42 ⟾ *Schedule* - Future Videos: favourite scenes/episodes
00:24:52 ⟾ *Outro*
00:25:07 ⟾ [Promo] [Credits]
Does anyone know the track for the credits lol
Where's Cabbage guy in this video
Sokka's "helper"-complex is so interesting. Before he meets Aang, he's surrounded by children and old people - people who need protection. So his protector-ego is massively inflated and rightfully so. Then he meets Aang and EVERYTHING CHANGES. Now he's the weakest. The non-bender. And his ego takes hit after hit after hit.
So when he starts a relationshop with Suki, the only other non-bender to join Team Avatar (and a girl on top of that) of course his protector-complex kicks back in - and with full force too.
AND THEN in the last episode he literally has to save and protect TOPH of all people - motherf***ing Toph is the one person actually in need of his protection. AND MY MAN does he protect her. No wonder she falls for him.
All the years (and tears) later, Avatar is still at a high point of any discussion. What a phenomenal show
So glad Merphy is doing Avatar! I especially love Aang's final dilemma - the conflict between (1) his personal values and what's good for his spiritual growth and (2) his duty as the avatar and what's good for the world. Wonder if she'll touch in this..
Tbh, Aang's final solution felt like an ass-pull to me. Energy bending could have been implied earlier. I feel like the last season was good, but rushed. Sokka MASTERS sword-fighting in 1 (maybe 2) days. Aang learns firebending, and a few episodes his firebending could stand up to Ozai. Azula's breakdown was a bit too fast too me. Plus, freaking everyone being a member of the White Lotus felt added on later. Piandao made it clear, but I don't remember Paku, Jeong Jeong or Bumi doing or saying anything involving the white lotus, or even Pai Sho. "We need more members of the White Lotus! Who are the oldest characters? Perfect."
@@Vanillastump Season 3 is wonderful but season 2 is the better season
@@tolord1800 The 2nd half, yeah. Honestly, the Blind Bandit is my favorite episode. Not just because Toph is the 2nd best character. But that is part of it.
Honestly I never liked that part of the story mainly because it just felt like Aang was having a hissy fit refusing to do the thing that all of his past incarnations said he should do and the universe just rolled over and handed him a deus ex machina to let him have his way
@@jonasquinn7977 if aang keeping to the morals of his family and nation was an hissy fit to you.. Then damn
ATLA is so fascinating that even to this day we can still pinpoint which things in this series that's incredible
My favorite thing is how the show subtly reinforces the theme of “friendship is better than power.” Iroh first points this out to Aang in Crossroads of Destiny, but you also see it when Aang tries to give up attachments ti master the Avatar State and nearly dies, and ends up surviving only because of his primary attachment to Katara. Friendship consistently proves to be more powerful in securing victory and love and life than actual power.
One might even call it the power of friendship .
I dunno what it is about merphy talking about my fave shows and putting into words the stuff I love, but I find myself time and time again tear up listening to those analyses. Well done!
Personally for me, toph was also the most relatable character for me, for very similar reasons.
Sameeeee! I was nearly crying over every analysis. Can't wait to cry some more with the coming videos! hahaha
Yeah this was therapy, for good or for bad. 😅
I would love an entire video focusing on iroh and his impact on his surroundings/ places & people
I love how he is a constant reminder throughout the series not all fire benders are toxic/evil
Also the fact Sokka can’t remember his mother’s face it’s heartbreaking since he looks a lot like his mother
With the news that the creators have their own studio and are working on more avatar content, I’d love to see you do a video on where you would want them to take the story next. I feel like every fan has ideas on how they would love for the universe to be expanded and I’d want to hear your perspective!!
I didn’t even realize that Toph holds on to Sokka’s arm in multiple scenes. That’s so heartwarming!
Man, for some reason this video made me teary eyed. I love this show so much, thanks for the video Merphy. 😊
I understand your reflection of Toph. I had/have the same issues as someone with disabilities myself. Especially looking at acts of kindness as being looked down upon. It’s great to be reminded that this isn’t always the case. Love AtlA thank you for the videos!
I understand my ex more now, she identified and liked Toph a lot. She might have a genetic desease and is very self-sufficient/it's very important to her. The disability part I totally forgot, but it makes a lot of sense.
As a fellow person in the Avatar Fandom, I love her talking about this amazing franchise.
To really hammer home the severity of Katara's trauma: while maybe not entirely obvious in the show, Katara saw her mom her mom burn to death. It's a wonder she's as well adjusted as she is.
i never realized this….
i think one of the things that helps this series is it gets progressively better. Season 2 is much better than season 1, and season 3 somehow leaves season 2 in the dust. This show even somehow does a good recap episode.
I still defend season one. I think it sets up the others and makes them all the more better.
@@IamnotJohnFord season 1 is good. It's just the others are so much better
You can tell Merphy loves something when she can list off more than like 5 names at once.
After 18 years i finally watched this show and it was amazing, its awesome that the show is great for adults watching without nastalgia it's just that good
Such a great piece of storytelling! Great world building and character development.
This is one of my favorite shows of all time, and I am 100% here for all of these videos! I know the Last Agni kai has been talked to death, but it's just such an awesome scene. I hope to see a deep dive of Iroh, too!
I also really love the fact that you said aang is more of a natural bc he’s already mastered an element (that and I’d say water and air are close in relation) I’ve never thought about that before but it makes so much sense thank you
I would LOVE if you can do an analysis of Azula. She, in my opinion, is one of the best villians ever written. Desite being a truly evil person, her fall to madness at the end genuinely breaks my heart, every time. The fight between her and Zuko is one of the best scenes ever in the history if cinema/tv. Period.
On a second run now, first was during lockdown. Perfect, beautiful, soul-fullfilling work. I loved it.
Damn, the way you presented this stuff made me tear up a couple of times. You did a really great job of finding the core of each character and it made it really difficult for me not to completely empathize with each character.
Its been a while since an Avatar vid from Mephy!! what a treat, your first dive into the series were the videos that dragged me to your channel!! Amazing stuff!!!
I can not possibly describe how this show makes me feel. After my friend passed away I felt so lost and sad, with the announcement of Avatar studios I cried for joy for something for the first time in months.
I think it’s worth mentioning the moment Zuko found out he’s also related to avatar Roku helped push for his redemption arc. It gave Zuko a clear view that he doesn’t have to choose the path set before his father. In fact, it was his father’s paradigm that burned his face just for speaking out of turn. It was the Avatar’s version of “I am your father” from Star Wars. And like Luke from Star Wars, Zuko is faced with a decision of which path he wants to follow, except this time he’s rejecting the ideals he thought he originally wanted and pursue the “light” instead.
Avatar is also my favorite show ever! And characters are what really make it shine!! I love whenever you do a deep dive on this incredible story because it's like we're freaking out over its awesomeness together!
Everytime I open youtube Murph is talking about another series that's so near and dear to me and I couldn't ask for more. Really looking forward to hearing more of your thoughts on this series.
I just finished rewatching this. Perfect timing!!
I just watched Avatar TLA for the first time in my life and it just made me feel so wholesome ♥️
Now that I finished it I'm also feeling kinda sad and nostalgic :(
It was a beautiful experience.
I loved watching your Avatar journey. From wondering if you would like it to absolutely loving it. And your insight has given me, a fans since it aired, some differs prospective. Thanks for what you do.
I’ll never get tired of Avatar content. Love this show. 😊
Brb started sobbing over the characters
Seeing someone pick this show up so long after it has been released, talking about it as their favorite show ever, is so satisfying. ATLA is definitely and objectively the best (completed) show that has ever been made. Seeing that it still lands with new audiences the same way it did all those years ago when it came out just re-affirms this point.
The first show I have ever watched that I thought might take the crown from ALTA is Arcane. It is only one season in, so it is hard to say whether or not the series will remain a contender throughout, much less end with taking the crown, but it has the potential so far. It has many of the same things that made ALTA stand above the rest; Complex characters and interpersonal relationships. The ability to weave every minute detail into the bigger picture. Masterful music and visuals to perfectly capture and enhance every story beat. Arcane season 1 is a cut above the rest and I really hope the complete story holds up to this incredibly high standard the way ALTA arguably not only held, but surpassed as the story progressed. I am definitely looking forward to what is in store.
We could never have enough Avatar breakdown videos, keep ‘em coming!
My gosh yes please. We need more of this content 😍
Stop I actually got emotional from this video ahhhhh I love Avatar so much and you PUT IT IN WORDS
Avatar was one of my favorite series when I was a kid. It aired on Nickelodeon late at night and I would beg my mom to let me stay up and watch it 😅 It didn't help that I'm Ukrainian and my parents blindly dislike all American media.
I finally watched it from start to finish when I was 14 and got my own smart phone. Now it's almost 10 years later and watching this makes me want to watch this series again
"I'm not Toph, I AM MELON LORD!! MWAA HA HA HA HA"
So I have been watching you on and off for a few years now, but one thing that I absolutely loved seeing is your gradual realization in how amazing this world and series is. I was so excited when you first announced you were watching season 1 for the first time and its been so cool watching a new fan blossom. I know I am a bit late to this video but Its great that this show still grasps people almost 20 years later.
Your definitely my favourite UA-camr at the moment merphy always enjoy your uploads.
Also I just think it’s incredible how nearly 20 years later we’re still talking about this fantastic show
The last season is for sure my favorite cause although I've always loved team Avatar I've never had any preference for anyone on the team, but when Zuko finally gets his redemption he immediately became my favorite and I don't really know exactly why, but his humility and persistence to change were captivating, the only thing that made me upset was not having more time to see this "new" Zuko❤️ (ps: of course that outside the main avatar team, Iroh is my favorite hahaha)
You should check out the Kyoshi novels. There's 2 of them. I think how they decided to do her origin story is pretty interesting. There's a Yangchen novel coming out on July 19th as well.
Even though you just showed a small clip of it, when iroh hugs zuko at the end it always makes me cry. Even if it's just a 2 second clip!
Not me crying everytime anyone speaks about this show and these characters cause I love it so much and it touches me so deeply even though its just a show and I should be an adult about this but this show is sooooo good ughh
I would love to see an examination from you about how the character development of one character depends on and reflects the traits and character development of the others. You touched on it here, but I think that that would be a really rich area of focus.
I cried real tears. Thank you so much for the nostalgy!
Ok... Now I have to rewatch it cause your videos was awesome and I missed it ...
Zuko needed to fail in his redemption arc in ba sing se to really understand what it is he truly wants. Finally having everything he worked so hard to get back after being banished made him realize how much he really didn’t want it & all those years away with Iroh showed him the good side of him that was there all along. His redemption arc is perfection. My favorite character aside from iroh ♥️
Your passion for the characters is wonderful to listen to!
I felt those chats about Toph. I found growing up I resonated with (probably) Saka the most, but I found comfort in a lot of all of the characters struggles and growth. I'm so curious about what your favourite episodes and even which book is your favourite 🍃 More episodes please 🥳
24: 24 Yes Yes Yes! I would love to see another video about other characters!
I love how these characters are great characters and great people to their core but are still just human and are not flawless. They have their flaws, they're real, and it's beautiful. Their growths as individuals and a group. From beginning to end. This show is so powerful and so beautiful in so many ways. (Suki is part of Team Avatar, and I love her and her relationship with Sokka.)
Katara and Sokka are my all-time favorite characters, and they have my favorite relationship in the show! The fact that Katara and Sokka have to grow up fast to be there for their tribe, and have to take different responsibilities, with Kata being the caretaker and Sokka being the protector, is sad.
Katara: "I will never turn my back on people who need!"
Sokka: "You're my sister, and I will never turn my back on you."
Zuko's character development is amazing and everything, (I love Zuko and Iroh's relationship) but I LOVE Sokka's development. That sexist guy from season one was NOT the Sokka who let his girlfriend take control from season three. You also see his confident and ego slowly decade, because he's around these powerful benders and begins to feel like he's useless, when he's not. He's their leader, good with a sword and a boomerang, and intelligent. I love Sokka and Toph's friendship. I also love how the group see Toph as this strong and sufficient person so much that they forgot that she's blind so often, which made for so many hilarious and amazing scenes. I also think Toph needed that, because people treated who has if she's weak or broken because she's blind. But they didn't, and it was beautiful.
I only like Katara and Aang as friends. Aang tried to push himself on Katara, which was not okay. Plus, she never saw him as anything but a little brother, until the last five minutes. I'm sorry, but no 14-year-old girl is going to have a crush on a 12-year-old boy. Their romantic scenes make me cringe SO bad. I'm a hardcore Katara and Zuko shipper. The scene where Katara and Zuko talked and confided in Ba Sing Se. When Zuko tried to get Katara to forgive him and cared SO MUCH about what she thought of him. The scene when Katara forgave Zuko. The scene when Zuko jumps in front of lightening, sacrificing himself, to save Katara. In my mind, they are cannon and endgame.
Zuko's character development literally gave ME character development as a viewer.
Wow, i’m over here thinking about my own struggles and personality flaws.
What a great breakdown of these amazing characters.
I’m excited for the next one
"It's perfect"
pretty much, yeah
Avatar is a perfectly imperfect gem, and I love it. If you have not seen the show Buffy, I would HIGHLY recommend for excellent characters and arcs. It hits home in so many different ways, and the emotions are yanked out of you. I realize it's not the same genre at all, but I can't help but think of the fantastic ensemble cast comparisons
Love avatar. It's still my favorite show to this day.
Is it crazy to say that zuko goes from a leading antagonist to the protagonist by the end of the show.
By s3 I'm rooting for him more than I am even rooting for aang.
In the day of black sun the most important and iconic part is his standoff with his father and him redirecting lightning.
In the series fanale the last agni kai between him and azula is a scene and fight I'm more exciting and emotionally attached to then aang vs ozai.
The last episode is titled: Sozens comit part 4: Avatar Aang.
I personally think it should be titled Firelord Zuko
As the episode really culminates in zukos coronation, and they say "All hail fire Lord Zuko"
Love the video, sorry for such a long comment. Don't have many people who I know who watched the show so nice to talk about it.
Thx
I need to keep watching avatar. Seems like everyone is watching it for the first time right now. I’ve seen most of series in clips (no really. I really have seen more than half of it from clips lol) but only sat and watched most of the first season in order. Toph is my favorite. She’s sarcastic and hilarious.
I'm definitely the "Katara" in my family... Always trying to keep everyone together ❤️
I would absolutely love to hear you talk about Azula, Mai and Ty Lee!! I think they all need more attention, especially Mai and Ty Lee because they are mostly supporting characters, but they are still SOOO complex especially when you try to pick apart every scene they're in in detail. They need more love
And Azula of course should be getting talked about too because in my opinion she's one of the best written villains of all time
Avatar used to be my peak "everything" until Arcane attacks.
Uncle Iroh is the heart of the story. His passion and curiosity about the smallest detail is so endearing.
I might need another video on the other characters!
I love this show even in my adulthood because I always found the storyline complex yet simple enough for a child to understand. I love Prince Zuko's story.
I never really got behind Legend of Korra, but I also didn't give it a chance, because it's hard to top a masterpiece.
Love Avatar Videos! You should really watch Arcane. It’s another show with amazing Characters and story! 🤗
How come I’ve only found this channel now? I’ve got a lot of videos to binge.
I love Avatar the last Airbender! Typically, I don’t watch shows more than twice if they are any good but I watched Avatar four times. You review of the characters was very enjoyable and refreshing. You should do a second video exploring the other characters. I would love to hear your take on uncle Iroh and the tale of Ba Sing Se episode.
That was a really good Avatar character appreciation video!
I am so happy 😀 😀and impressed for the people who took this (ATLA and LOK) and I am so happy.The story was so good that I’ve watched it multiple times. And now I watch it on You Tube. I am also happy 😃 😀 that Aang has people who protect him.
Iroh and Toph are my two favorite characters. So much so... Such an amazing show!!
My favorite characters are Zuko, Toph and Mai. There is something about breaking away from your comfort zone and not becoming what other people want you to be while following your heart and passion that just makes these characters so damn good for me.
Wonderful account of the characters at the heart of a great series. Thank you!
Looking forward to more ATLA content! I'm obsessed with the show (and LOK too!)!
Such a great show and wonderful video, looking forward to as much AtLA content that you share with us
I think Avatar would win perfection status is they did a better foreshadowing on power-bending, because yes, we learn that the world in avatar is very mystical, but there is none info about the lion turtle at the end.
The idea of an arc for Aang to reach sort of nirvana is great but it was way too quick in my opinion.
Sooo good! My favorite show & possibly story of all time. Love your vids on it, ty!
One of the reasons I always connected with Zuko is because I have an older brother who was troubled and kept relapsing into bad behavior and it always felt like such a real construct of that patricular type of angry young man. Your help might go unheeded, its easy to get your hopes up when they are on the right road and devestating when they relapse, but they can be different and its a combination of outside love and support as well as interior reckoning that makes it happen.
I agree with everything you said. I think Zuko is the most compelling of the main cast. Something to note about his characterization is the numerical motif of 2. For example, his scar is an external representation of extrinsic stimuli. His father scared him for being morally just in his denouncing of the fire Nation's plans. Zuko was then burned, leaving a mark that showed he was now undergoing a change. It was the seed from which his eventual redemption sprouted.
I never noticed that detail about Toph holding onto Sokka when she’s “blind”.
Sokka was also the first person to trust Zuko after he join the group. He even put his life in Zuko's hands in the boiling rock almost immediately after he joined.
Oh my god. I masively underestimated the amout of nostliga i would get from watching avatar and videos about it...
Still an absolute masterpiece
I am sooooooo here for this Avatar series! Love this show!!!!