The Legend of Korra: new season takes off

Cartoon Network’s show “Avatar: The Last Airbender” was a smash hit, even after the spectacular four-season series ended last year. Chronicling the adventures of a young boy with extraordinary powers and good-natured humor, it was so popular that a spin-off series was created: “The Legend of Korra,” whose first season was launched successfully last year.

The second season began on Sept. 13, with a gripping episode detailing the continuation of Korra’s journey to become the Avatar, wielder of fire, water, air and earth. The new season boasts better animation, yet keeps the charm of the original Avatar series in a visually striking show.

Viewer reaction has been generally positive. Junior Winston Vo said he liked what he saw.

“I found the dialogue and plot to be both comedic and dramatic,” said Vo. “The animation continues to amaze me, as it is more advanced than before.”

Vo, however, was less favorable about the quick, plot-driven pace, along with the brevity of the episode.

“What wasn’t exciting was how fast the episode moved along,” said Vo. “It feels as if the directors wanted people talking 1.5 times faster than normal people. Plus, the episode was far too short.”

While the first season focused on Korra’s development from a child with too much power into a responsible young adult, the second season focuses more on Korra improving her relationships with her family and battling spirits, plot directions that upset some fans.

Junior Cindy Cheung disapproved of the sudden change in Korra’s personality and morals.

“Korra [acted like] a really egotistical, temperamental teenager,” Cheung said. “She kept disrespecting her dad and was super caught up in how she knew she was the Avatar.”

Despite her disapproval of Korra’s behavior, Cheung found the humor “funny, if a little forced.”

Junior Elise Nguyen, on the other hand, enjoyed the new character dynamics, especially between Korra’s family, as well as the new animation style.

“I thought [the new show] was different partly because of the new animation, and also because of the twist between Korra’s uncle and father,” said Nguyen. “Personally, I enjoy the concept of bringing a balance between the North and South Pole and of restoring the spirits to peace.”

“The Legend of Korra” boasts a large fanbase and a gripping storyline, accentuated with beautiful graphics. For fans of the show who doubted if Avatar would return at all, the continuation of Korra’s adventures will be exciting, no matter what.