Trakt for iOS
Works on iPhone and iPad.
Another good season. The chemistry between Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder continues to be out of this world, the problem is that everything else pales in comparison.
I think the creators of live-action remakes tend to really misunderstand what had made the source material special. So, they inevitably mess it up.
This wasn't terrible, but it's just hard to understand why they made this? Well, money, of course. I would just much rather see a third animated Avatar series than a live-action remake. Animation is a beautiful art form on its own.
A few things I did really like about this adaptation:
- Costumes, hair, and makeup were done very well, except for Zuko's scar, which was fine but could have been better.
- It captured certain characters' dynamics and relationships well. Iroh and Zuko's relationship stands out: super important as it's one of the most satisfying relationships in the original story.
- I personally think almost every casting choice was impeccable... at least, in regard to the characters' physical likenesses and their voices. Iroh's actor was consistently great but I'm not sure about the casting; I didn't like Azula's acting or casting; everyone else was cast well but the acting itself was hit-or-miss.
There were several creative changes made to the story, but I can understand that. I don't expect or need it to be the same show. What is harder for me to get past is when the changes make it obvious that the creator is not even interested in imparting the same meaning or message.
Some examples of changes that bothered me (I don't feel like explaining, but hopefully you get it):
- How utterly dark and devoid of color it is.
- The lack of focus on building up new skills or even relationships.
- The lack of focus on Aang learning about the history and implications of being the Avatar.
- Certain things added, sometimes way before their original storyline, seemingly just to be "Easter eggs", but that were more meaningful or at least funny in the original series: Momo and Appa, the cabbage man, the "secret tunnel" song.
- Although I liked the casting choices, I suspect that they went with the actors who looked and sounded most like the original characters because it would give the appearance of being truthful to the original series. Idk, it seems like the creators just terribly underestimated their audience and what the audience wants.
- This hasn't happened yet so maybe it's unfair to list it here lol, but based on the trajectory so far, I suspect Zuko's redemption will come early and will be rushed, which would be a real shame.
- There is a sense of peace and lightheartedness weaved throughout the original series, but that's completely absent here.
- Overall, the slow-paced and thoughtful moments have just been kind of ignored.
Well, this is probably the longest comment I've left on Trakt but I just really felt like sharing my thoughts right after watching. I'll still check out season 2 if and when it comes.
10/10 on the acting, cinematography and music. I like Hansu and Mozasu way more in this adaptation than the book, but some of the creative changes confused me! I haven't liked any of the changes so far. Excited to see more of the story adapted.
