Past Avatars Unleashed: Why a Prequel Trumps Another Sequel for Avatar Fans

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Summary

  • A new Avatar sequel series, Seven Havens, is in development, centered on twin earth-bending Avatars post-Korra.
  • However, potential plotlines for a prequel, including exploring the lives of past Avatars and a pre-bending society, could be better than a sequel.
  • The decision to keep the new Avatar series animated in 2D is a wise choice, ensuring creative freedom and adherence to the original charm.

It’s hard to overstate the quality of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” and its successor series, “The Legend of Korra,” which are widely regarded as some of the best animated television shows ever produced in America. Originating in 2005, these series have evolved into a small but dedicated fanbase, earning critical acclaim, high ratings, and numerous awards along the way. So, it’s no surprise that fans were thrilled when Nickelodeon announced plans for another “Avatar: The Last Airbender” sequel series.

Following the triumph of “The Legend of Korra,” it’s clear that fans are eagerly anticipating fresh content from creators Michael DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. Instead of just new material, a prequel focusing on the lives of past Avatars such as Kuruk, Kyoshi, and Yangchen, or perhaps even a society before bending, might capture our imagination even more. Delving into an Avatar world that is less advanced than Aang’s, characterized by political harmony yet facing a greater existential threat, could offer exciting new perspectives to explore.

Another Avatar Animated Series Sequel Is in the Works

Prepare for Twin Earth-Bending Avatars in ‘Avatar: Seven Heavens’

During the final week of February, fans of the “Avatarverse” were particularly elated (excluding the die-hard James Cameron enthusiasts). At the 20th anniversary celebration of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” Nickelodeon announced a new animated series in production at Avatar Studios, which was established four years ago. Titled “Avatar: Seven Havens,” this upcoming series promises to offer a fresh viewpoint on the Avatar cycle, focusing on a pair of twin Avatars who are earth-benders and reside in a world post-Avatar Korra, as suggested by the official synopsis:

“Avatar: Seven Havens” will delve into a new perspective of the Avatar cycle, centering around a set of twin Avatars with earth-bending abilities, living in a society that has moved beyond Avatar Korra’s era.

The story unfolds in a world scarred by a catastrophic event. A young woman with earth-bending abilities finds herself as the new Avatar, succeeding Korra. However, this role is more of a threat to humanity rather than a symbol of salvation in this perilous epoch. Pursued by both human and spirit adversaries, she and her unknown twin sibling set out on a journey to unravel their enigmatic past and safeguard the Seven Havens before they crumble, leaving civilization’s remaining strongholds vulnerable.

The animated TV series “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” boasting a flawless 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and an impressive IMDb rating of 9.3/10, is often hailed as one of the greatest TV shows ever produced. Its successor, “The Legend of Korra,” further developed the mythos in innovative and unconventional ways, although it didn’t quite reach the heights set by its predecessor, which could be seen as a consequence of being overshadowed by Avatar’s exceptional performance. In essence, “Avatar: The Last Airbender” established an exceptionally high standard that “The Legend of Korra” found challenging to surpass, despite having certain aspects that were arguably superior.

The game titled “Avatar: Seven Havens” is still quite some time away from launch, and the team consisting of Konietzko, DiMartino, and Nickelodeon are well aware of the mounting anticipation among fans for its release.

It’s the Perfect Time for an Avatar Prequel

What Would a Pre-Bending World Look Like?

In simpler terms, the world of “Avatar” has potential for another sequel, but its detailed history calls for a prequel. Instead of brief mentions of past Avatars in flashbacks throughout the series, exploring their periods could provide fans with deeper insights into the Avatar cycle and the challenges these renowned characters overcame.

Consider the case of Avatar Kyoshi, whose period was marked by social turmoil and political intrigue. Raised as an orphan servant, she eventually became one of the most powerful Avatars in history, a fact recounted in the “Rise of Kyoshi” novels, making her one of the greatest heroines. Her unwavering commitment to justice suggests that a show centered around her is long overdue. Although Avatar Kuruk had more screen time in “The Legend of Korra” and Netflix’s live-action adaptation, it was not enough to quench fan’s thirst for more. Lastly, there’s Avatar Yangchen, renowned for her wisdom and diplomacy, who lived during a relatively peaceful era. However, even then, the world was far from danger-free.

As a cinema enthusiast, I’d be absolutely thrilled if we could delve deeper into the roots of bending! Imagine an entire season exploring how the first earth-benders learned from the Badger moles, the first water benders emerged from the moon and tides, and the first fire benders were ignited by dragons. The political landscape of a pre-bending society would be fascinating to explore, offering a unique contrast to the familiar politics we’ve seen in the franchise.

The absence of a grumpy Fire Lord with his imperialist goals doesn’t equate to a conflict-free past. Human history has shown us that even societies enjoying a long period of peace are bound to experience large-scale conflicts. The ancient pre-bending societies wouldn’t be any exception to this rule, and uncovering those struggles would make for an exciting watch!

2D Animation Remains The Right Choice For Avatar

A Live-Action Avatar Isn’t Necessarily a Bad Idea, But…

Opting to maintain the upcoming series in 2D animation style, reminiscent of the classic era, is a wise choice, considering the excessive live-action adaptations of timeless animated masterpieces like “How to Train Your Dragon” and “Snow White.” This approach offers a unique level of creative and visual storytelling that both 3D animation and live-action often struggle to replicate. Moreover, it’s particularly suitable for handling complex elements, such as in the “Avatar” franchise. For evidence, look no further than Netflix’s live-action adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” which has been criticized for falling short of capturing the original’s appeal and adaptability. Consequently, it makes perfect sense that any potential prequel series should also be animated.

In spite of my doubts, a live-action Avatar prequel, or any Avatar film for that matter, retains a strong potential for success. Envisioning a narrative set during the Hundred-Year War about a band of rebels battling against the Fire Nation, a movie chronicling Iroh’s transformation from a Fire Nation general to a wise tea connoisseur, or one delving into the origins of the first benders and their impact on non-benders. Now, picture this captivating concept backed by a $100 million budget and the guidance of a cinematic legend like Steven Spielberg. The anticipation would be off the charts.

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2025-02-26 23:27