My TV Show Review on The Legend of Korra · 3:16am Jul 11th, 2023
Greetings and salutations, my friends.
This is your top-of-the-line film, TV show, and episode reporter here with another review.
Today, for my 33rd TV show analysis, I'm gonna give you guys my review of "The Legend of Korra".
Here's the rundown of it:
70 years after the Fall of Firelord Ozai, many of the original heroes have either passed on or become too old for combating life-threatening dangers. And with the passing of Aang the Airbender, a new Avatar has come to take his place: Korra, of the Southern Water Tribe.
After moving to Republic City, Korra strives to live up to and honor the Avatar legacy. Along the way, she makes new friends and allies, and faces off against dangerous foes.
I know that it's been nearly three years since I reviewed "Avatar: The Last Airbender", and I'm sorry if I made anyone wait too long for my own review of Korra. There were other things I was more interested in reviewing beforehand, and I wanted to make sure I didn't have too much of a nostalgia-rush in me as I'd watch it.
Since I currently don't have anything big left in my reviewing-schedule, I decided to finally get around to checking out the show. I borrowed a copy of the series from my 2nd eldest sister and brother-in-law, and managed to complete watching it in just 4 weeks.
The main thing I'd like to admit is that, before I saw the show, many of my family members previously expressed mixed to negative feelings towards Korra compared to "Avatar: The Last Airbender". Including my sister and brother-in-law, if I may add. It was something that I found to be interesting, mainly considering Korra was as acclaimed and popular as its predecessor. Naturally, this was a reason for why I became interested in checking out Korra for myself, because I wanted to have my own opinion on the series.
And you know what?
As a guy who finally saw the show for himself, I discovered that I too am not a fan of "The Legend of Korra". I mean, there were things about the series that I found to be commendable, but overall...I personally consider Korra to be extremely overrated. And inferior to The Last Airbender, of course.
The biggest reasons for why come from the overall direction and storytelling of this series.
As I watched Korra, I noted that each season had its own individual story and stood apart from one another. Granted, I know this style isn't uncommon amongst TV shows, but even so, I feel that using this standalone-styled format negatively affected the title character's story.
In The Last Airbender, Avatar Aang’s story was depicted through an overarching narrative. It featured him not only venturing the world with his friends, but training so that he could face Firelord Ozai. Even when all three seasons had an individual objective involved, they were relevant because defeating the Firelord was the core that tied everything together. The goal in question was the very thing that'd have people wanting to see Aang succeed. It helped the series be engaging and intriguing no matter what, and gave a reason to actually care about the characters and cherish them.
In "The Legend of Korra", there's no overarching narrative. Each of its four seasons has a separate story with little sense of relevance or connection. They feature Korra and friends facing off against different villains, and facing situations different from the last, but for what purpose?
Because the series was being told in this standalone-styled format, I ultimately found myself having no reason to get engaged. There were many aspects that held a great amount of potential, but they were never taken advantage of. The 3rd season was also perhaps the pique of the series, and its finale looked like it was leading into something very interesting, but hardly anything about the season's events was given any kind of follow-up. Considering the fact that Korra was initially going to be a 12-episode miniseries rather than a four-season program, it became clear that the show team was just making everything up as they went along instead of going in with a genuinely thought out plan. Even the world building wasn't able to make up for this, because the show's attempts at broadening the franchise's universe and connecting with The Last Airbender were generally flat.
Plus, the series's humor was lackluster. Every joke was worthy of a chuckle, but they carried no sense of creativity or innocence. The show's efforts at being dramatic, emotional, and heartfelt were also quite bland, particularly on the grounds that I never gave any kind of response other than feeling bored or unmoved.
As for the themes and morals, they were forgettable at the most. Even now, I can't remember what the show was trying to teach in every episode, and the themes were ones I was unable to get. The only thing I recall is that the show had a particularly big focus on teen drama, and that the production team put a lot of unnecessary emphasis on it.
On the subject of the characters and vocal performances, they were a mix at the most.
Along with the storytelling and writing being dreadfully dull, Korra herself is openly what I consider to be one of my all-time least favorite characters. And with good reason too!
From the beginning, Korra showed herself to be annoyingly brash and unbright, and she often came across as a rude, arrogant, and selfish jerk. The worst part is that no matter what sort of "developments" she went through, or how much the show team tried to make her likable, I was unable to actually care for her. Even when she was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder in Season 4, I could neither sympathize or root for her, not to mention the whole thing with her having PTSD was out-of-nowhere and unfounded anyway.
Regarding Janet Varney's performance and interpretation of the character...I'm sure that Varney is a very talented individual, but even her efforts weren't able to make Korra any more serviceable. Much of the time, it seemed like all Varney did was add onto why I disliked Korra as a character.
On top of this, the characters of Mako, Bolin, and Asami were bland and forgettable. Every time I'd even try to remember who the three of them are as individual people, I'd realize that they have no distinct qualities or personalities. They certainly didn't have much in the ways of compelling character growth either. Heck, Bolin was basically the new 'Sokka' of Team Avatar, only without the charm, intelligence, or fun. And just like with Varney as Korra, the performances of David Faustino as Mako, P.J. Byrne as Bolin, and Seychelle Gabriel as Asami did not help the three characters be any more memorable or compelling.
Another aspect I wasn't a fan of was that, in the final season and series finale, it's implied that Korra and Asami were falling in love and later starting a romantic relationship. A factor that's confirmed by Korra's officially canon comic series, which was developed by franchise co-creator Michael Dante DiMartino.
Before I ever watched the series, I found out about the whole "LGBT-Romance between Korra and Asami" thing long ago and wasn't sure how to feel about it. As a guy who actually saw the show, I've honestly grown critical of it for reasons that I'm hoping people can understand.
The entirety of the homosexual incorporation had no foreshadowing and buildup whatsoever, and its inclusion in the final season and solidification in the series finale lives up to the common trend of LGBT pairings being included right when a show is ending. If anything, it's a definitive example of a show team and television network using LGBTism to desperately garner further interest and attention, and rather than making Korra and Asami more interesting, it basically added onto how uninteresting they already were.
Other characters that I found to be either forgettable, irritable, or boring are Sir Iknik Blackstone Varrick, Zhu Li Moon, Avatar Wan, and Kya. John Michael Higgins definitely sounded like he was having fun portraying Varrick, but the character himself was openly two-dimensional and infuriating. Avatar Wan did nothing but give a terrible impression of how the Avatar cycle got started. And both Zhu Li Moon and Kya were far from intriguing or memorable, and I can tell that it was exactly why DiMartino decided to confirm Kya as a lesbian in the comics.
In addition to this, the majority of the series' villains were terribly one-note. Steve Blum's performance as Amon was undeniably entrancing, but the character himself was hardly what I'd call a noteworthy standout. Unalaq was interesting, but only before his villainous reveal; once he turned out to be evil all along, he's reduced to being a two-dimensional nut job with idiosyncratic motivations.
But, out of all the villains in "The Legend of Korra", the very worst of them was Kuvira. Regardless of her positive reception, and the basis behind her creation, Kuvira is nothing more than a poorly-characterized rogue, and her motivations merely make her a typical power-hungry individual bent on world domination. Not to mention she has no sense of personality and little in the ways of development, and Zelda Williams's portrayal of the character was relatively run-of-the-mill.
To boot, I wasn't pleased with how "The Legend of Korra" portrayed many of the original characters or the directions they were taken in. Katara was reduced to a mere sideshow, and Sokka had virtually no impact in his single appearance. But, it was Aang and Toph who clearly got the worst of it.
Compared to The Last Airbender, Avatar Aang's portrayal and character in Korra was colorless, and the revelation that he was basically a terrible father who favoritized Tenzin was a complete takeaway from his appearance in the former show. D.B. Sweeney didn't even sound like he was given much to work with, or enough opportunity to make a positive impression in the role of Aang as an adult. Meanwhile, in contrast to The Last Airbender, Toph was portrayed as an unlikable and one-dimensional grouch, and she was clearly a subject of poor character writing and direction. It also infuriated me that the show team decided to portray her as a terrible mother who was basically neglectful of her daughters.
In spite of my overall dislike of this show, I'd like to note that it wasn't without some highlights.
For instance, not every character was bad, and there were many vocal performances I found to be deeply commendable.
Out of all the original characters from The Last Airbender, it was Zuko and General Iroh who were given justice. Zuko's portrayal in the 3rd season was fabulously true to his character in the original show, because it was faithful to his personality as a reform and his overall development as one. Bruce Davison was terrific in the role of Adult Zuko, that's for sure. Plus, General Iroh was still the wise and purehearted individual many have known and loved him as in the original program, and Greg Baldwin gave an undeniably enchanting reprisal as Iroh.
There were many new characters that greatly stood out to me as well. Even more than the main characters, if I may add.
Among the new characters, Tenzin was someone who I definitely enjoyed. His overall character arc was far more intriguing than Korra's, and his struggles with upholding the Airbender legacy, mentoring others, and being a family man were obstacles I wanted to see be overcome. His development throughout the show was more powerful and personal compared to Korra's, especially to where he could easily hold his own if given the chance. J.K. Simmons was born for the part of Tenzin, and the way he translated him as an authority figure with emotional complexity was outstanding.
Another character I enjoyed was Tenzin's brother, Bumi. He had a charming personality and sense of humor that easily gives Bolin and Varrick a run for their money, and the show team brilliantly delved into his insecurities and developed him in ways I never expected. Richard Riehle was terrific in his portrayal of Bumi, if I may add.
Along with this, Lin Beifong was the very best female character in this entire show. She didn't seem like much of a likable individual at first, but she grew on me because of her character development and no-nonsense personality. Her reconnecting with her half-sister, Suyin, were practically Lin’s defining moments. Mindy Sterling was outstanding in the role of Lin, and it was mind-blowing how she translated the character as an emotionally three-dimensional and complex individual.
Lastly, despite my criticism towards the series' antagonist-usage, there was one villain from the show that I actually enjoyed watching: Zaheer.
Compared to the other villains featured in "The Legend of Korra", Zaheer was the only one who had actual depth, dimension, personality, and humanity. His motivations were solid, he had beliefs that made him well-rounded, and he actually grew and developed as a character. He's also the only villain who genuinely gave Korra a run for her money and won a battle against her, and while I am aware that Kuvira has been classified as Korra's dark counterpart, Zaheer fit that description and title way more than Kuvira did. Henry Rollins was phenomenal in the role of Zaheer, because not only did he showcase his passion and commitment for the character, he successfully helped translate Zaheer as a three-dimensional and complex human being.
Zaheer's comrades, P'Li, Ming-Hua, and Ghazan, were enjoyable too. Each of them proved to be a formidable force to be reckoned with, and they all had qualities and personalities that helped them be distinct. Likewise, the performances of Kristy Wu as P'Li, Grey DeLisle as Ming-Hua, and Peter Giles as Ghazan were splendid.
Looking back, I can't help but wonder why the show creators didn't make Zaheer and his goons the overarching antagonists of this series. They had the right motives and presence for such a role, and they all held their own quite well. In fact, it would've been awesome if Zaheer returned as the main antagonist of Season 4 rather than a mere cameo in one episode. But noooooo, the show team had to squander Zaheer's potential by giving the role of Season 4's main villain to Kuvira.
In regards to the animation, I thought that it too was a highlight.
Everything about the visual style was faithful to that of The Last Airbender, and I could tell that the advancement in technology enabled the animators to expand on the style and go bigger than ever before. Their work in creating the Spirit Realm and its inhabitants were definite examples, because the animators were clearly testing themselves to the limits with inspired passion and creativity.
As a plus, the music by Jeremy Zuckerman was as magnificent as ever.
Returning from The Last Airbender, Zuckerman created melodies that were enrapturing every step of the way. They not only had the Asiatic feel and tone that made the soundtrack of the previous show special, but they carried an emotional resonance and heart that made the music pleasurable to the ears.
In conclusion, though...regardless of the positives I mentioned, "The Legend of Korra" is another spin-off of a highly acclaimed predecessor that fails miserably, especially to where it can pretty much be called an ambitious misfire. It had potential that was never taken advantage of, the entirety of its "new generation" concept was poorly-done, and there's not exactly much about it to really admire or love.
So, I rate "The Legend of Korra" 2½ out of 5 stars.
To Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko: If you two see this review, I deeply hope that you take my criticisms of this show to heart and use it as a basis for how you can improve your future projects. Especially your upcoming "Earthbending Avatar" series, because I'm holding my breath hoping that it'll be both awesome and better than Korra.
Since you despise The Legend of Korra, what would you have done for an Avatar spin-off sequel series and what stuff would you have put in it?
5737268
Definitely give it a more cohesive narrative, for one. No standalone seasons or lack of connections. Also, I’d completely exclude LGBTism.
5737278
Why no LGBTQ+ stuff, besides it being considered "woke"?
5737279
It’s mainly because, nowadays, any incorporation relating to the LGBT spectrum causes things to get too politically correct. It always feels like it’s being done simply to promote and support an agenda, which takes away from the stories and characters entirely. “Mrs. Doubtfire” was a notable exception, because it didn’t feel like they were making a big deal out of Daniel Hillard’s brother being gay and having a spouse.
5737280
Sans Mrs. Doubtfire, do you feel that way to most, if not all forms of media that includes LGBTQ+ stuff?
5737281
Mostly towards ones made in the modern age, really.
5737282
1) Name some examples?
2) And what about the ones from the past ages?
5737283
For number one:
Star Trek Beyond, for its unnecessary incorporation and implication that Hikaru Sulu is gay, and is married to another guy with a daughter. Nothing about the whole thing contributed to the story whatsoever, so was it ever needed to begin with?
MLP’s “The Last Crusade”, whose inclusion of Scootaloo having ‘lesbian aunts’ basically seems to serve as a shield over the episode’s terrible writing and moral. A factor that’s openly apparent due to the humongous publicity revolving around them despite their lack of screen time.
For number two:
The closest I can think of is “Kindergarten Cop”, but it was only mentioned that a child’s father “ran off for another guy”, so I’m not sure that counts.
5737285
It's adds to the characters and makes them more diverse. Also TBF, Korra began life as a miniseries, hence why it seemed like the first season had a concrete ending
5737324
I’m afraid you and I have very different opinions on what diversity is. In contrast to skin color and gender, sexuality isn’t something one is born with. Rather, it’s a choice, just like religion is.
5737342
According to the dictionary entry of diversity, one of the meanings is and I quote "the practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders, sexual orientations, etc." So diversity can mean both something we're born with AND something we choose.
5737285
Aside from anti-LGBT, anything else you would do for an Avatar spin-off sequel series? Like make the interquel comics into a show?
5737353
Good point.
5737354
I think another thing I’d do would be to give a greater sense of high stakes and adventure. In this case, ensure that there wouldn’t be a predictable turnout.
5737342
Not really, your brain hardwires who or what you're attracted to. But still, it is nice to see diversity in general, and well, the world was really only begining to accept it in the early 2010's, in media. Plus straight or otherwise, a lotta shows often only have X or Y main couples get together near the end
5737367
I find it highly doubtful that the brain has anything to do with sexual orientation. Especially considering the human brain is how people can make choices to begin with, and we can control our own brains.
Funny enough, your opinions of Kuvira matches my opinions of Unalaq and Vaatu.
Kuvira, to me at least, had an actual motivation and solid enough reason behind her actions because someone had to restore order to the Earth Kingdom after Zaheer murdered the Earth Queen and Suyin Beifong, being the irresponsible c
nt that she is, refused to lend a finger to help the rest of the Earth Kingdom. Not to mention that if Kuvira was as one-dimensional as you think she is then she wouldn't have had the need to cry about having to kill Baatar Jr., her fiancée mind you. Does this justify her horrible actions? No. But does it make her actions make sense? Yes.
Plus, they did expand her character in the comics. So there's that.
But can we both agree that they could have handled both her character in the show and her descent into villainy better?
I do agree with the rest of the review but I give it a 3.25/5.
5737369
Actually I enjoyed the world building it had.
Wait they’re making a sequel to this one!!!
5737369
Chemicals and whatnot. But anyway, yeah, I sorta liked Amon, but I would have liked it more if he were a non bender. Zaheer was great though
5737404
You know what would have been neat? Have her instead of being sorta fascist, instead have her be one trying to turn the Earth Kingdom into a democracy, or a meritocracy, albeit by force. Korra and co would try and stop her, but also come to realize they'd be keeping the status quo in check, and asking if they're REALLY in the right
5737441
That would have made her even better.
5737414
Yep.
After the Avatar TV shows grew in popularity in recent years thanks to being available on Amazon Prime, Paramount+, and Netflix, Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko founded a studio specifically dedicated to creating content based on the overall franchise. They currently have an “Avatar Earthbender” series in development, as well as an animated movie focusing on the characters of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” set for release on October 10, 2025. Two additional animated films are in development too, but it’s unknown what they’ll be based on or what they’re gonna be about.
I'll need to watch it in full before making a proper critique on the series.
5737513
Kyoshi is one if memory serves
5737404
Honestly, the things you mentioned just now are openly more reasons for why I believe Korra’s storytelling and direction was lackluster, and why I think Kuvira is poorly-written and terribly-characterized. The fourth season basically seemed to butcher other certain characters in favor of helping Kuvira make a point, and if she hadn’t decided to go all psychotic just to “restore order to the Earth Kingdom”, everything wouldn’t have gone in such a dark and convoluted direction.