It makes sense that the son of Darth Vader would play the imperial father figure in Avatar: a role reversal that establishes irony for adult viewers. Mark Hamil, who played Luke SkyWalker of Star Wars, voices the infamous Fire Lord in Avatar: The Last Airbender.

However, the sensitive show still made a significant misstep.

They also incorporated Eastern wisdom into the characters’ arcs. They modeled each elemental “bending” discipline, in which characters can manipulate certain elements with their minds, after a specific martial arts discipline. But even in a time before allegations of cultural appropriation could cancel a show (Ah, 2005), the creators struck a careful balance and avoided it. Upon a 2020 viewing, viewers familiar with woke culture may wonder if this show, written by two white guys, might stray into the territory of cultural appropriation. It’s a wise, culturally diverse children’s show that differs from the Western cultural monopoly in most American TV. The Asiatic world of Avatar: The Last Airbender pays homage to Eastern culture. It may have well-rounded characters, serious subject matter, and detailed world-building, but it also offers timeless critiques of American society. But Avatar is more than just a quality show. The show’s success fifteen years after its 2005 premiere proves the enduring power of its storytelling. At the time of their release, they ranked consistently in the platform’s top ten. I give the show an easy 10/10, especially if you watch all the shows in order.Amidst the pandemic, Avatar: The Last Airbender and its sequel Legend of Korra both returned to Netflix. The character development and writing can match even some of the best television writers out there, it may even be able to stand toe-to-toe with the works of Joss Whedon. I wouldn't doubt that the next 3 seasons are already written. The show itself is also planned out, as minor questions formed in one episode may not be answered for another 10 some episodes later, so it's not just another Nick 'story' show like Danny Phantom, all episodes are connected and well planned out. The bending styles all coincide with different styles of fighting and can be seen in every episode. The research put into the story is amazing. It's good to know that children that watch this show may actually learn what it takes to have a good story.

Not since Samauri Jack has an American show been able to pull off an anime style that works. This show is what Nickelodeon needs to give it some respect. The art and research put into this story matches the quality of the plot and character development.

Map of the world in avatar the last airbender