Critics Declare Netflix’s Avatar: Last Airbender ‘Fantastic!
Critics Declare Netflix’s Avatar: Last Airbender ‘Fantastic! – Everyone agrees that the show is much better than the 2010 movie, and they say the visual effects are great.
By Megan Sauer
Due to the love that fans have for the original animated series, there was a lot of skepticism surrounding the live-action adaptation of Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender has garnered significant attention, particularly because the creators of the animated show stepped down from their roles as showrunners for the new series, citing creative disagreements. However, initial reactions from critics on social media have begun to emerge, offering a generally positive view.
The series follows the story of Aang, the last Avatar and master of the four elements, in a world divided by war and the struggle for power. Aang sets off on an adventure with his companions, Katara and Sokka, with the goal of mastering the elements and bringing harmony back to a world plagued by strife.
Early reactions from critics have been mostly positive, highlighting several aspects of the series. The direction of the series is praised, with special attention to the action scenes and visual effects that bring to life the control of elements (bending), an integral component of the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe. In addition, the fidelity to the original material and the inclusion of new elements that enrich the story known to fans stand out.
Although some reviews point out certain stumbles in the acting and pacing of the narrative, overall, initial impressions suggest that the Netflix live-action series has captured the essence and spirit of the beloved animated series.
While critics have only assessed the initial two episodes, enthusiasts already have grounds to anticipate an enthralling journey that remains faithful to the legacy of Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Joshua Yehl, from IGN:
“The first episode of Netflix’s #AvatarTheLastAirbender is pretty incredible. The latest iteration exhibits a heightened level of drama, maturity, and intensity compared to its predecessor. The most notable aspect is the enriching additions they introduce to the story we are already familiar with, such as depicting the Airbenders’ Order 66. It serves as an excellent beginning!“
Anthony, from The Movie Podcast:
“#AvatarTheLastAirbender Episode 1 dazzles with its VIBRANT, LARGE-SCALE environments. Devotees can celebrate the faithful visual representation and captivating action sequences that the adaptation delivers. However, it stumbles slightly in the cast’s performances, narrative, and philosophical depth. Excited about how Season 1 ends!“
Ryden Scarnato, from southern CBR:
“As a big fan of #AvatarTheLastAirbender, I was satisfied with the first two episodes of the #AvatarNetflix series. I agree with the changes and think the item control is well done! Some acting was a little stiff and I wish it was more cinematic, but it’s a solid start!“
Rafael Motamayor, from IndieWire:
“After watching the first episode of #AvatarTheLastAirbender, I must admit that it left me greatly disappointed. Sure, the item control looks great and is overall visually solid, but this is a mixed bag. Too much exposition, bad writing, and horrible pacing. Dallas Liu is great though.“
Didge Dee, from the Geekset Podcast:
“I had the chance to watch the first episode of Netflix’s #AvatarTheLastAirbender and it’s so much fun! The controller looked great, the fights were fun, and it felt like we were watching Avatar again. Zuko and Aang were my favorites. It was definitely better than the 2010 movie.“
Marta Medina, from Mundo Cine:
“I can now exclusively focus on the first episode of #AvatarTheLastAirbender for discussion. A first episode of almost 1 hour that contextualizes this very peculiar and striking world very well, although it would have benefited more precisely from the ‘show, not tell’ technique.“
POC Culture:
“I got to watch AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER on Netflix! It’s truly an animation that comes to life. Between the sets, costumes, and sound effects, it’s a visual feast. The fight choreography and element control are epic. I loved it.”
