Banana Scoop

Republic City is an Absolute Wonder

While Aang largely had to go all over the world, it’s a nice contrast to have Korra stay in only one place.  Republic City is an absolutely beautiful setting and it’s amazing to see how much technology has grown in the past 50 years or so since the last series. It simply says how rapid society can grow if there is no war, as I’m sure there was a hefty amount of combination of fire/water/earth bending to erect such great statues, build amazing train systems, and maintain living standards.  There’s a lot of culture and the steampunk atmosphere makes a beautiful environment.

Amon is a Fearsome and Mysterious Villain with Class Warfare as a Compelling Motivation

The series overall villain so far is the mysterious Amon, a man who condemns all bending and has the ability to take it away from people.  This naturally creates a widespread panic throughout Republic City.  He’s an almost sympathetic villain when he points out the obvious negative aspects of bending, with all the bullying and taking advantage of the regular citizens.  He’s quick and able to evade most types of bending to get close enough to the bender to take the powers away.  He seems well funded to teach his followers chi blocking and give them such technologically advanced gear.  He naturally has no fear, something Korra will have to overcome eventually.

Bending vs. Technology is an Interesting Plot Device

Amon brings up a good point with an idea that’s stood the test of time: the better the technology, the more formidable the opponent.  The age of steel beats the age of bronze, etc.  And it’s interesting to see as of late how easily new technology could beat the bending.  A new type of foe will definitely put the benders to the test and we’ll see before this series end who’s fighting style is better.

The Production Value is As Beautiful as Ever

Whether it be the choreography or long shots of Republic City or the soundtrack, Legend of Korra is absolutely beautiful.  There are obvious increased production values and it shows.  The animation is top notch and the fight scenes are original and exciting.  There’s a lot of tribute to Chinese and Japanese culture here.  The use of Asian names and Chinese scripture are the obvious ones, but it’s amazing how they base each bending style on an actual form of martial arts and the transition from the art to the screen is awesome.

Sh!t Will Eventually Hit the Fan like Before

Avatar: The Last Airbender had its big moments: The Siege of the North, Fall of Ba Sing Se, Day of Black Sun, and Sozin’s Comet.  No doubt this series will have its own big moments.  Korra will have some serious growing up to do.  She lacks the ability to bridge to the spirit world, we haven’t technically seen her airbend yet, and I don’t believe she’s ever entered the Avatar State, a feat which Aang did at least a dozen times when he was younger than her.  Watching her overcome these obstacles will be a joy to watch.

Overall Legend of Korra is quickly becoming one of my favorite animated series out there.  With such a great combination of heart and comedy, it’s hard to dislike this great series and I highly suggest anyone who has the time to watch both Avatar: The Last Airbender and Avatar: Legend of Korra.  [Not the Shyamalan movies though.  Stay away from that business.]

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