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.