Julz`s Avatar:The Legend of Korra 3x09 "Stake Out" Review

It is hard to be a mover star!

Julz`s Avatar: The Legend of Korra Book 3 Ep. 8 "The Terror Within" Review

Bolin time!

Julz`s Legend of Korra Book 3 Ep. 6 "Old Wounds" and Ep. 7 "The Original Airbenders" Reviews

Siblings am I right ?

Julz`s The Legend of Korra Season 3 Ep 4 "In Harm's Way" and Ep 5 "The Metal Clan Review"

That was totally a banana!

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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 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 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 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. 

Julz`s Review of Legend of Korra 2x03 "Civil Wars Part 1" Review

Korra you have redeemed yourself for now, let`s hope you can keep it up as we get into greater trouble.

Julz`s The Legend of Korra Season 2 Premiere Review

The Avatar has returned !