Julz`s Doctor Who "Time of the Doctor" Review

Emergency! Emergency! The Doctor is regenerating! The Doctor is regenerating !

Julz`s New Comics Day 12/21/13 Review

Green Lantern New Guardians Issue 26, Wonder Woman Issue 26, Superboy Issue 26 and Young Avengers Issue 14 reviews. Decided to meld them together. Sadly one of them was not as fulfilling as I had hoped.

Julz`s Young Avengers (2013) Issue #13 Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julzchan

This Months issue of Young avengers has the power to make fans happy but at the same time disappointed with the story.

The overall resolution isn`t bad far from it. The story does wrap things up with Mother and shines with the power of love. However in terms of pacing and the art it is where the disappointing parts come in.

 In 4 pages the conflict between the Young Avengers and their counterparts are all handled in just 4 pages. The conflict with Marvel Boy and Obliette, Miss America and Nullifier, Loki and Leah was handled so fast. The comic shifted from one conflict to the next barely adding in depth to the drama, hardly anything engaging, or anything that could get readers invested into their individual conflicts. For people who have read about these characters in other books it might make sense however for those only reading from Young Avengers this comes off as pointless or rather confusing.

Loki does get a chance to redeem himself and finally come off as a decent human being for once.

The great positive to this book however is the moment that shines through and is the high point is the resolution to the Mother arch. The hearts of all Young Avengers fans can now rest and know that their hopes and prayers had been answered. Proving once again, true love conquers all in Young Avengers and shines throughout all reality.

The art work does well during the climax, however that is the only time the art excels and tries to become visually interesting. The rest of the time the art isn`t really that good. There are not backgrounds and thus making it look bland. The fights scenes aren`t that impressive or even dynamic, even with all the hitting or laser blasting. The art sometimes comes off as a bit confusing since Mckevel makes Alex and Hulkling look the same.

This story wasen`t terrible but it is a very big stretch to call it good. Even with the heartwarming climax and Mother over and done with it dosen`t make up for the rushed pacing and the art work. There are 2 issues left of Young Avengers however this book didn`t really come off as engaging enough to keep readers on despite being the resolution to the first arch.

Julz`s Doctor Who 50th Anniversary: The Day of the Doctor Review

Here`s to 50 more years! Allonz-y !

Julz`s Superboy (The New 52) Issue 25 Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julzchan

This month`s issue of Superboy comes off a very disjointed and cluttered while it takes part in the “Krypton returns” arch.

Despite Justin Jordan`s adequate writing, it is not enough to counter balance the cluttered writing of Scott Lobdell. While having all three kryptonians, the disappointing thing is that they don`t interact. And considering how the previous superboy issues have been able to fit in an adequate side story for Connor whenever something was happening with Superman or the Teen Titans, it makes this issue all the more disappointing.

The issue is cut into threes, isn`t exactly cohesive, not even moving the plot that far. So rather than give an interesting Superboy side story, this issue tries to shove in three that aren`t that interesting and don`t give fans that much to hang onto or engaged. Making this issue nothing beyond just a bunch of fight scenes. 

And while Lobdell can keep the story on target, somewhat, however dosen`t really explain as to what is going on in this issue and comes off as incomprehensible at this point.

And while this book provides referral text boxes to events happening in the other super-books, it dosen`t really provide an issue sourcing as to how Superboy regained his powers after the events with Physico Pirate. So those only reading form Superboy are going to be very confused.

However despite the flaws there were a few things positive in all this, however very few. One of them being, no huge amounts of displaced, cluttered, or unnecessary text boxes. For those following the Teen Titans books or the earlier Superboy books that was Scott Lobdell`s constant tendency. Where he would put great deals of text boxes even if narration wasen`t needed and even if it came off a distracting. And it is always good to see Justin Jordan continue to write Superboy himself as a clever young hero able to think on his feet.

The artist Ed Benes is a good a consistent it is almost enough to take our mind off of this chopped up mess. However while the art is pleasing, the use of splash pages is a bad choice in terms of sequential storytelling, trying to glorify the fight scenes, and an making the comic shorter than usual.

They alone cannot excuse the fact that this issue really forces an appearance of three kryptonians and could even make it interesting and making it look a tad contrived. 

Julz`s Green Lantern the New Guardians Issue 25 Review

By Julius Cantara aka JulzChan

As if outing an end to Relic wasen`t bad enough, with one threat down a new Challenge emerges with Kyle Rayner.

Following the universe threatening battle with Relic, we return with everyone`s favorite White Lantern Kyle Rayner. This new story isn`t as post apocalyptic as the one with Relic or with the First Lantern, however writer Justin Jordan still knows how to open up an interesting new chapter.

Kyle pondering the events of Relic and the entities is done very well and simple. With Kyle trying to contemplate his place in the universe, but still manages to maintain that refreshing cool and collectedness. And without it having to be the entire center of the issue`s story.

However this series ever since its inclusion of Carol Ferris in the Rise of the Third Army arch is beginning to hint more and more, little by little as to the nature of Carol and Kyle may be. Especially due to a line from the guardians in issue 22. Quite possibly bringing big controversy in the future among fans of Carol and Hal. 

While it may not have been the most exciting issue ever, it is a decent follow up for events with Relic and is a breather form ancient, comic being trying to take over or remake our universe. And is still a refreshing start to a new chapter.

Julz`s Young Avengers (2013) Issue 12 Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julzchan

Young Avengers has now reached the first half of its climatic last stand against Mother, however writing scores well but the art not so much.

To be fair the writing is not terrible, the dialogue does sound funny with all the rich teenage geek humor that you can ask for. Best for readers to keep an eye out for these because sometimes they can be clever even. And given the sight of the preview pages the fight has yet to get interesting with some help from our good friends from Avengers Academy. And given Loki`s situation things are get really dramatic as his dirty little secret may be revealed.

 Now while Mother is a very threatening villain, she has indeed over stayed her welcome and hopefully the writer Keiron Gillen can put an end to this.

But the real problem being is the art. While the art is enjoyable and can go to a certain length to impress or shock, but this is not the case. How it is impressive how our Young Avengers each battle their personal foes in their attempt to save Hulkling, however a final fight like this needs to be visually dynamic or a visual spectacle. However no amount of jagged, overly dramatic lightning bolts can help given the lack of detailed backgrounds. It really looks too simple and makes it very disappointing to see a final stand with such lack of necessary energy.

Although on a funny note, the cover is strikingly similar to DC`s Titans issue #1 ? 

Now despite all the hardship Kieron Gillen has put the Wiccan/Hulkling fans through but in the letters to the editor page he does state, “All we can do is have hope.”

Overall there is a lot to like but there is equally enough to disappoint with the art.

And hopefully the Young Avengers can put an end to Mother`s plan, if Loki isn`t toasted first with what is to come.

Julz`s Thor The Dark World Movie Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julzchan

Thor returns for his third appearance on the big screen, bringing laughter, action and a satisfying Marvel story.

Following the events of the Avengers movie, Thor is now to defend Earth, Asgard and the love of his life from a new threat bent on bringing darkness to all of the 9 realms.

The overall story isn`t too complicated to understand, straight forward and at the same time entertaining. Doesn’t feel like it is trying to be too deep or has some greater meaning, just very satisfying superhero entertainment. As well as being great character development for both Loki and Thor, showing how much more intimate their brotherly relationship is.

Character interaction and the dialogue sounds natural, serious and at the same time able to inject a vast amount of humor, even surpassing that of the first Thor movie in that regard.

Thor 2 is a great change from your usual superhero movies where our heroes are usually troubled or very depressed characters despite being amazing. Superman, Batman, Spiderman, you name it.

Thor comes off as a true hero, showing progression following form the previous Thor movie and the Avengers movie. This time around Thor, once again played by Chris Hemsworth, comes off as more mature, wiser, restraint and recognizes that his actions have consequences. As well as being the knight in shining armor and with golden locks for his maiden.

And of course you can`t have Thor without everyone`s favorite god of mischief, Loki played by Tom Hiddleston. Hiddelston`s performance is one of the most attention grabbing things in this movie. It is noticeable that Hiddelston is really excited to be back as Loki and having fun with it. Before, that entire villainous charisma and snarky attitude was also present but was more composed in previous films. Here all of that enthusiastic energy from the trickster exudes so well with every word and action. Giving an all new meaning to the allure of darkness.

Jane Foster, played by Natalie Portman, since the events of the first Thor movie comes off as a scientific investigator while at the same time searching for her god of thunder. However that`s it, Jane foster does not have that much of a character or an active role in this movie beyond just the scientist infatuated with Thor. There was nothing expanded or developed about her character. Jane`s assistant Darcy, played by Kat Dennings, is more interactive and social however nothing much beyond the funny and enthusiastic assistant.

Our villains while intimidating are rather generic. They do have the whole kill, destroy, evil doer motif going for them however nothing really invested into them other than just being the bad guys. Making it is sad considering Christopher Eccleston, aka the 9^th Doctor Who, plays their leader. Showing that while the movie has a large cast of great actors it doesn’t make up for the lack of investment or connection to these characters. Or not giving these well experienced actors more to work with.

The combined themes of magic and science have always been an interesting aspect of the first Thor movie. Here it is incorporated again however it may have tilted to more Sci-Fi, less magical or supernatural adventure. Even the villains from the Dark World, unlike the Frost Giants from the previous film felt less supernatural creatures and more like aliens.

Asgard gets shown off more, wonderfully detailed and beautiful, this divine crown jewel of the 9 realms with shining towers and majestic rivers. According to long time Thor fan Brevan Bliss, 23, “Fairly accurate to what Asgard looks like in the marvel comics and looks fairly decent in terms of aesthetics”.

The fight scenes, while not a visual spectacle were still well choreographed, fast paced, and little to no CGI or digital enhancement thus making it look more like a natural, physical fight.  “It was so exciting and even kept me guessing”, UOG student, Christpher Titano, 19.

Despite its faults, Thor the Dark World does its job as build up for future Avengers movies and being an entertaining, hammer smashing, lightening flinging, trickster laughing watch.

Julz`s Legend of Korra 2x13 "Darkness Falls" and 2x14 "Light In The Dark" Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julzchan
The midnight premier of the season finale of Korra starts off with hopelessness and despair and ends with a satisfying victory with boundless possibilities.

"Darkness Falls" really holds up to it`s title, with Korra really trying her best to put Vatuu back in his place. Korra trying to dig deep and over come each life threatening moment and blow after another. And the sight of the legacy of the Avatar begin ripped to shreds piece by piece and evil`s ultimate triumph really gives of an emotional resonance.That despite their efforts darkness prevailed and our heroes lay in utter defeat. 

But not everything was dark in this episode as it provided a Tenzin subplot in the midst of all this end of this battle for the world. Tenzin, Kaya and Bumi were very reminiscent of the original avatar team. Tenzin being the spiritual leader like his father, Bumi being comic relief non-bender like Sokka and Kaya bearing similarities with her mother in terms of comparison and calm personality. This only helped with the guest appearance and Tenzin`s strange plan to find his daughter. Making further comparison to the previous team and Tenzin and his siblings. 

And on another surprising not the episode tries to insert some happy, heart warming vibes with the reveal of Bolin`s true feelings. Makes one wonder if indecisiveness runs in Mako and Bolin`s family. 

Despite some flops with the animation it could not degrade the world-at-stake battle between Vatuu and Rava, never letting the suspense die for even a second. And the ending to this episode all the more crushing and soul shattering. 

"Light In The Dark" was the perfect continuation from the last episode, feeling like a perfect rise from the hopelessness and dread of last episode. Providing some very provocative and insightful philosophy as the overall solution to defeat Vatuu and some last minute but very insightful character development for Tenzin and for Korra. That it is not what they are that defines these characters but who they are, allowing them to dig deeper and overcome this ultimate darkness. Demonstrating the more outstanding qualities of the show, how this series can both entertain and teach. 

The fight was very surprising and might as well put "Siege of the North" to shame, since it was combined with a deeper meaning and with higher stakes. Gigantic amazon spirit Korra beats Godzilla fish Aang. Even giving Jinora even more time to shine in this fight, literally. 

Relationships between the characters also ends on a sad note, while they could have had some chance to develop now have been dropped due to various circumstances. Such as Bolin and Eska`s heart warming, newly rekindled love as well as Mako and Korra`s sadly but needed to be ended relationship. 

Despite the losses the series ends with boundless possibilities and new ideas as a new spiritual era. And despite the faults of our current team Avatar it leave more to be explored or even corrected in book 3.

Julz`s Legend Of Korra 2x11 "Night of a Thousand Stars" and 2x12 "Harmonic Convergence" Review

This week on legend of Korra  are two new episode that give Bolin a time to shine as well as bring the story ever closer  to it`s apocalyptic finale. 

Night of the Thousand Stars

"Night of the Thousand Stars" really redeemed Bolin and added a bit more to his character. The mover,

super-stardom arch for Bolin wasen`t at all necessary since it did not contribute to the main plot and it degraded his character. And was rather disappointing considering that aside form being comic relief there wasen`t that much to Bolin, nothing deep or complex. Thus making this arch for him more of a step back than a step forward. However this episode helped because it showed that Bolin can stand on his own, be a hero, take situations into his own hands and be taken seriously. Glorified by the parallel between his fight scene and the mover sequence. 

However the bad thing about this episode was that while Bolin was able to shine Mako only became even more of an unlikable character. Repeating another problem present in the last season where his is indecisive about his feeling between Korra and Asami. Not telling the truth about his and Korra`s break up only furthered how spineless he is. Further more this episode pushed Asmai aside and returned her to the position of being Mako`s ex and side supporting character statues. So pretty much a step back even further for Mako and another for Asami to her annoyance.

However despite the forced love triangle aside this episode had the generosity of allowing Bolin to not only entertain but be the real star of the show. And then we progress into the battle everyone is waiting for, the Harmonic Convergence. 

Harmonic Convergence 

The second half of the episode still has some of the lingering vibes of the first half with Mako`s utterly betrayal and it is good to see that he will most likely not get off so easily. And that his utter fear is his own suffering, making it very enjoyable and funny to watch. And was amazing how Asami was not bothered being pushed aside once again and stayed focused. However it is still a happy sight to have seen Team Avatar back together, but still needing more work on the dynamics of their friendship. 

Our villain, Unalaque, brings up a surprising twist to his plans involving Vatuu , further demonstrating how insane and corrupt he is. If control over the dark spirits wasen`t enough he wished to become the epitome of darkness itself, a Dark Avatar. That reveal alone raised the stakes even further. However while his plan is insane Unalaque hasen`t been a very invested character, due to all the focus of the sub plots.

 It was clear as to what his goals were and it was seen clearly in this episode that he is out of his mind, however there was still barely any emotional connection to him. As opposed to Varik who is a slightly more comedic relief villain even in this episode, however there was still more invested into him. However despite the lack of depth to Unalaque`s character he was still a legitimate threat.

The spirits were just as scary as they have ever been, possibly more considering how many of them there were. 

 This episode also allowed everyone to get a piece of the action. Especially the crazy non-bender Bumi, his

comedic and heroic antics are enough to actually believe his ludicrous battle stories. Bumi really resembles his uncle Sokka in so many ways from his constant shrieks of terror to his ability to save the day with sheer dumb luck.

And while the animation at times looked as if it were lagging the fight scenes were still exciting and  well paced. 

But all attempts had failed and evil had risen after 2000 years.The sight of the world engulfed in darkness really captured the dread and malevolence befitting for the apocalypses.Quite literally this arrival of the Harmonic Convergence  made Souzen`s Comet pale in comparison as all the world is instantly in Vatuu`s grasp.

Thankfully due to Nickelodeon`s Tumblr poll they had decided to allow their viewers to see the finally early. Of course the end of the world does not wait for a week. 

Julz`s Legend of Korra 2x10 "A New Spiritual Age" Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julz-Chan
This week`s Legend of Korra is both beautifully done but some repeated, typical problems with the series as the Avatar enters the Spirit World.

On the good side of this episode, a journey into the Spirit World takes a very symbolic representation or more of a metaphor of Korra as she is right now. Not exactly fully developed and not fully matured, which is why she appears as child. And it is very commendable to the writers for the addition of Iroh, Zuko`s uncle, and as always Iroh provides very deep and helpful advice for Korra and all the while being his usual calm and funny self.  Which is what made this part of Korra`s journey so beautiful and was the high point of the episode.

Jinora`s character kind of shined through in this episode, she was very wise and clever, very smart for her age. Making her very befitting to be the Avatar`s guide through the Spirit World.

As for the Spirit World itself, the original Avatar series has dipped into the Spirit World before but it is always something wonderful to see as new things are explored or discovered. For example, the ever changing landscape and why bending isn`t normally accessible in the Spirit World.  As well as familiar things such as Won Shi Tong and the Spirit Library. Apparently if the writers were going bring up a blast from the
past then why not two?

Now onto the bad things, while Korra`s experience with Iroh was very well done and could have really helped to the character`s development, however our Avatar continues to make mistakes. Korra`s behavior problem was in fact what got her separated from Jinora and as a result has put Tenzin`s daughter in grave danger. Korra desperately needs to take more responsibility otherwise she will continue to be a disappointment especially considering that she has had so many chances for redemption. Even if Korra`s behaviors or mistakes can be attributed to her being a teenager or simply scared, yet Jinora is completely calm and collected while being in the Spirit World? So by comparison it makes Korra look even worse.

However ending was enough to bring in enough excitement for fans to stay tuned in as to how Korra will rescue Jinora. And hopefully not mess it up again for the millionth time.

Julz`s SPBD White Ranger Vs Scorpion Review (+playlist)

Go White Ranger !
http://www.youtube.com/v/uQ8H8d3oBSc?version=3&list=UUzlPG38qYL9Fg_-NCj2ytUg&showinfo=1&autoplay=1&attribution_tag=S6o89HH5OZKtEbHzXyF86g&feature=share&autohide=1

Julz`s Legend of Korra 2X09 "The Guide" Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julz-Chan

This week`s Legend of Korra brings us a good follow up from the last episode by fleshing out a lot of our characters with more step forwards than draw backs.

In terms of characters, it`s a safe bet that this episode was more to Tenzin`s character development. Considering he is the son of the Avatar, it would make sense that he feels an obligation to live up to expectation and a desire to know as much as he could about the spirits. However even with his discontent it was good to see that Tenzin took this situation with humility and at the same time be proud of his daughter.

Korra so far is on continues her steady path to redemption as she makes up with Tenzin which is a sort of heartwarming scene combined with Tenzin being proud of Jinora. Also Korra demonstrating her ability to transform spirits succefully is a good indicator that she is improving as the avatar.

Now the only problem that can be said about this episode, or at least in terms of characters is Mako`s revived/forced relationship with Asami. There was hardly any build up to this rekindling of their pointless relationship outside of the two sharing an awkward kiss. So now, even though Mako has been doing his best to prove Varick is the bad guy, our discomfort is now directed from Korra to him.

And before this is glossed over, the episode dosen`t expand Bolin. Just reminds the us that they are fighting and he`s being a goofball superstar.

As for our villains Unalaque demonstrates how corrupt he`s become, caring more about his goals more than the safety of his children. As for Varick, while he didn`t have that big of a scene here, he still continues to be a very shady character all the while knowing that he is indeed one of the bad guys. And he is still as gunny as always, making him a unique villain who isn`t just mincing.

Now visually it`s nice to see how the art style from the previous two part special, “The Beginning”, converts to the regular art style of the series. Vaatu still being as evil looking as before and the battle ground where the Harmonic Convergence happens still looks detailed. Also the little spirit creatures are as cute as all can be! Flying Bunnies, it’s hard to argue!

And the animation style seems to have improved, rather similar to that of Studio Mir.

 The only downs side while everything was very vibrant in the Spirit World, for the most part things are a lot darker in this episode. Although that`s not a big problem considering the current state of the spirits.

Overall, a good follow up to last episode and very little to complain about. 

Julz`s Halloween Comic Recommendations

Halloween is almost upon us my fellow freaks and ghouls, so here is my treat to all of you !
Happy Halloween everyone !

Julz`s Young Avengers (2013) Issue 11 review

By Julius Cantara

This month`s issue of Young Avengers prepares us for the climax, Mother is just as evil as ever.

Mother`s threat knows no bounds as she sets her sights on our hero`s home dimension with evil versions of our Young Avengers as her army. Along with our hero`s evil exes.  Despite not having a story arch she is indeed sparing no expense in her evil ways.

Dialogue wise, this issue has some funny moments with Noh-Var`s beard and Loki admitting to his misdeeds. As well as Mother`s cheerful evil talk. However what dosen`t work is how Prodigy explains their plan. Rather showing how much of a troupe Kieron Gillen`s understanding of teenagers is. But then again the dialogue in this issue also shows each individual`s personalities more in this issue, even very relatable. This was needed considering Kerion Gillen has been trying to balance out each member of the team with each issue, which has been a challenge for him.

A few plot twists here and there with Loki partially revealing the truth to his actions, Mother`s plan and Noh-Var`s secret online chat making, which are very interesting and possibly will be expanded in future stories.

Visually this issue steps up in terms of designs by restoring Loki to his adult form, or rather young adult form. Needless to say this design will be drawing in more female readers to Young Avengers. Our Penciler, Jamie McKelvie and Colorist, Matthew Wilson have been consistently pleasing throughout  this entire series run. Despite the ending being a nightmare fuel for any Hulkling fans, be warned of the disturbing images you will see though very few.

Great to see the story finally reaching its climax after seeing such heart breaking events lead up to it, Gillen`s writing actually becoming more interesting and filled with more possibilities and the art work still having its surprising and impressive. Making this comic a very good read for any Young Avengers (or Loki) fans and is not without its merits.

Julz`s Teen Titans (The New 52) Issue 24 Review

By Julius Cantara aka Julz-Chan

Proceeding the event of Forever Evil Issue 2, the Teen Titans are thrown into a roller coaster ride along space and time only to end in a victory for Raven. 

Writing wise this story wasen`t perfect given the shoddy pacing, due to the time hopping.Still there were some moments that were significant to many of the Titan`s history such as Miguel`s reason for coming to America, Wonder Girl`s armor, and further info on Bart`s tragic past involving his crimes in the 31st century. Those alone give the time jumping some enjoyment however the other didn`t have much reason to be in this story or not even made that much sense. 

Visually this comic is very lazy. Angela Unzueta bears a lot of similarities with Brett Booth`s art style. Not only are there more faulty bits with the art itself but the constant use of splash pages after splash pages. Really disappointing to see a creative team take the easy way out. And while the text boxes are actually sort of helpful this time, they are also a distraction. The over use of text boxes and dialogue bubbles are very crowded and ruin the splash pages individually. 

Like the Wonder Woman comic it is thanks to the cliff hanger that makes you want to keep reading and makes it significant. However unlike the recent Wonder Woman comic this one didn`t make the ride to the end as enjoyable. 

Julz`s Wonder Woman (The New 52) Issue 24 Review

By Julius Cantara 
Villain`s month is over and we return to the main Wonder Woman story proceeding after the climatic events of last issue. Wonder Woman is now declared the new God of War, however she herself does not wish to acknowledge it or take up her responsibility as the newest of the Olympians.

This is not the most excitingly written issue Brian Azzarello has put out but it is a good follow up to last issue. Opening up a new chapter in Wonder Woman`s life with new challenges, especially given the cliff hanger.

The dialogue however doesn`t have that much uniqueness, there are some funny bits. But these few funny moments either come off as a miss, such as the gods referring to Wonder Woman as War, or disturbing when seeing Hera`s new center piece.

While not all that unique, it is still a good issue following the battle with the First Born and it is interesting to see how the gods are taking it with Wonder Woman being the new God of War. And given the cliff hanger Wonder Woman`s reign as the new God of War may be challenged. What will the gods have in store for her ? 

Julz`s The Legend of Korra "The Beginning Part 1 and 2 " Review

By Julius Cantara
This week`s hour long special of the Legend of Korra not only sets Korra back on the path of redemption, but lives up to its title(s) as a must see look into the Avatar Universe.

The series gets back on track into the main plot of the story after dedicating it the subplots involving the civil war. It really expanded the Avatar Universe revealing how the first Avatar, Wan (Voiced by The Walking Dead, Steven Yeun) came to be, how the art of bending was introduced into the world, the Avatar`s purpose, mankind`s relationship with the Spirits prior to the Avatar, and what exactly made the world it is today.

Thanks to this episode it is known why the Avatar is the "great bridge" between the Spirits and humanity and  how vital the Avatar is to the rest of the world. Basically, nearly  everything made sense after watching this episode while not being overwhelming with the information.

In addition, this episode provides prospective for those discontent with our current Avatar. Showing that even the first Avatar made bad choices when he first started out, but eventually owned up to his responsibilities and set things right.

However it will remain to be seen considering this isn`t the first time Korra has had a chance of redemption due to her regressed characterization early this season. However this episode left just as strong impression as seen in "Civil War". One can only hope that this has reminded Korra of her duties as the Avatar. And that she can continue staying on the right path and not disappoint by making more rash decisions.

Now on another note, it was clear to see that there had been a change in art style for this episode. The backgrounds may not be as detailed and intricate as the regular art style in comparison, however it is still a sight to behold bringing in some traditional Chinese landscape art. As for the design of the spirits, well they seemed more of a cross between the spirits from Princess Mononoke and Adventure Time characters, however still very other worldly and even whimsical as befitting for spirits. If there is a problem with the art it is that the era in which this story takes place does not appear any older than that of Aang`s era as the Avatar. Simply put, it is not convincing as a time 10,000 years ago. However is this so much a detriment considering we may never know what ancient china was like 10,000 years ago.

The animation was also more exceptional in this episode was well with Studio Mir taking the stand, a bit more fluid. 

In terms of voice acting, Steven Yeun delivered perfectly as the lowly thief who would then become the

world`s first Avatar. And hearing Jason Mardsen, playing the strange, spiteful, and highly condescending Aye-Aye as just a bonus. Mardsen was hilarious. 

This episode is a treat to any Avatar fan, old or new, to whomever wishes to explore the genesis of the Avatar. As well as giving speculation as to what is to come once the Harmonic Convergence arrives. 

Julz`s The Legend of Korra 2x06 "The Sting" Review

This week`s episode wasen`t outright terrible however highlighted a couple of problems with this series.

Problem one in particular to this season is the problem of keeping to the main plot. While there were a few filler episodes that didn`t contribute to the main plot last season, this season so far has the habit of shoving the main plot aside and expanding on subplots. the main plot is that concerning the Avatar and the dark spirits, which is why the season is called "Spirit". But no, we are being presented with more to the elements of the civil war case and took us even farther away from the main plot.

The second problem is one that has occurred throughout the series, forced character conflict or relationships. there was hardly reason for Bolin and Mako to be fighting. Even if what Mako said to Bolin was kind of mean it shouldn`t have been enough to offend him to this level. Or perhaps Bolin is still sore since Mako`s break up advice didn`t work. As for relationships, the Mako /Asami was really obvious that they wanted to get their old Mako/Asami fans back at the expense of a
relationship that was also forced and was hardly expound upon. Basically, trading in one forced relationship for another.

Ok, so what are the positives ? This episode did expand on our characters Mako and Asami, especially Asami expanding on her situation due to her father being thrown in jail. Giving Asami more to do by having her part of a plan. Same can be said for Mako, giving him more to do than just being Korra`s punching bag.


And then there is the Varik situation. This was a very big shock, very unexpected. A character with so much

potential to bring some great humor and being a big help to the team, is in fact one of their enemies.
At first he seems like he`s here to help but in fact Varik is here to profit from the conflict between the North and South. Now that was how you build up a villain in a not so obvious manner. Unlike how they did Unalaq!

Now while there is no Tenzin subplot and it turns out one of our comic relief is a back stabbing weasel, there was no need to fret as Nuk-Tuck, the Hero of the South, came to provide so much  needed comic relief. Taking up 3-4 minutes of the show possibly.
One could have harped on the fact that due to the technology shown on this show compromises the kind of era in which they live in, however one has to shut his mouth after seeing Nuk-Tuk!

As for Korra, while it turns out she didn`t have journey with the spirits to better herself as the avatar, however this amnesia situation opens some possibilities as to improve Korra as she gets her memories back. Hopefully she`ll rediscover some manners when recovering her memories and realize how much of a big jerk she has been. But still we can only hope.

Julz`s The Legend Of Korra 2x05 "Peacekeepers" Review

This of Legend of Korra was definitely polarizing, in a political sense. For  the first part was sort of an example of political disputes and issues. The people on both sides who support the avatar and those who support Chief Unalaqu. Even a terrorist attack, however that aspect dosen`t go so far since we see more of how Korra is dealing with the situation in the south.

However in this episode it shows that she is not dealing it well or at least not in a smart way. From her stand point she is doing this for her home and her people, however the way she approaches it is very rash. Even if it means she is stabbing the president of republic city in the back.

The president while it does seem like he is being stubborn you can`t argue his reason for why he wishes not to be involved in this war. Politically it will not look good for him to strike at the Northern Water Tribe`s forces without seeing the possibility of a diplomatic approach first.

Korra`s plan with General Iroh does seem brilliant however again it is very rash.

Now if Korra being rash or the government not supporting her endeavors to fight back at the Northern

Water tribe wasen`t enough to hurt you I think something else will.

This is the biggest problem with the episode aside from the inclusion of political conflicts. The relationship that was pushed from near the beginning of season one, has now ended without even expanding upon it beyond Korra putting down Mako. This is another example of how the government and the avatar are at odds with the situation with the North, however it hurts most of all.

Considering how rash Korra has been this season, you kind of feel more for Mako.

The Tenzin subplot was cute however nonexistent. Normally this subplot this season felt as though it was

supposed to balance out the dark tone of the series with some happiness, but considering what had transpired it is not enough. However that didn`t stop the episode from having some comedic relief, though very little, with Varik. As I said before in my previous review there is a sense of Sokka humor coming form this guy. So thank you Varik for adding in some comedy to this dark plot.

oh and in terms of plot, the civil war plot is more of a subplot here and now the main plot involving the spirits is completely chucked aside.Thanks writers. 

Another problem being is that this episode`s pacing was really fast, so much happens and it is a lot to take in. We went from Korra trying to get support from the government to her breaking up with Mako and being attacked by a spirit.

Hopefully on her journay out at sea and with the spirits, assuming she`s still alive, Korra will be able to learn a bit more about herself and possibly be a less rash and impulsive Avatar. Because it really shows how much Korra has not developed. Even with what happened last episode, this episode negated almost any chance at redemption for out Avatar.

Hardly any feels just a lot of hurt. Whether you are for Korra or for Mako and the government. It doesn`t matter.Hopefully things will lighten up with episode 6 of season 2.

Julz`s Male Star Sapphire Lantern

Since Kyle Rayner`s brief transformation into a star sapphire disappointed me, I took it upon myself to draw this. Behold ! Full on male star sapphire! I haven`t exactly given him a name.

Julz`s Legend of Korra 2x04 "Civil Wars Part 2" Review

This episode really feels as though the series has gotten the series on track, which is a relief since it felt as though the show was meandering. However that is the price you pay for introducing new characters.And in return we get long overdue action and things get shaken up even more. 

While Unalak`s motivations were predictable form the start and very weak, it is good to have them out now. And the series progresses in plot.

And thus forcing Korra to break her neutrality and take action, even though said action does seem a bit rash however civility and neutrality don`t seem to be cutting out for Korra. Giving her some needed development as the avatar.

The Avatar can`t stand idly by as injustices occur you know, especially when loved ones are involved. So being rash is ok for Korra given the situation, as questionable as her methods are.

Bolin`s comic relief with Eska was funny at first however at this point it has served its purpose and become dry. Seeing as how Bolin is completely been drained of all sense of manlyhood.

However that does not mean that the comic relief is gone from the show

.Varrick the salesman/platypus-bear was able to save the comedic aspect of the show with a trick that was unsightly at first but suddenly became funny the second time around. Varrick may possibly be this seasons equivalent of Sokka.

And although the twins may be as creepy as all can be, Eska, in her marriage proposal of death to Bolin, seems to show traits of that of both Mai and Azula. Mai board persona and Azula`s sadistic nature.  Now remember that as that will be important later.

Now while it may be possible that the writers are possibly secret bronie fans given the names of Ikki`s bison friends, it is very nice to see Tenzin and his daughter bond with these baby flying beasts. As they realize that while their relationship with their siblings may not be perfect they are still there for each other. This subplot really brings up a lot of sentimentality for Tenzin`s family and is totally relatable. The baby bison were just the added bonus to an already adorable and touching subplot. 

Ever since season 2 started there was a longing our other main cast ( Mako, Bolin, and Asami) to do more than just stand around or be comic relief.  So it was very refreshing to see them all in action again. Since this episode was able to pick things up, it is very possibly they`ll get more of the spotlight. 

And while things do end on a good note for both Tenzin and Korra`s families.....

.....yeah remember when I said Eska was gonna be important later?

Bolin can`t catch a break. Eska has officially become nightmare fuel. Let`s just hope Bolin will make it out alive next episode.