Avatar: The Last Airbender - How To Write A Compelling Backstory

Use my link bit.ly/justwrit... to get a 30-day ad-free trial of the VRV Premium!
Support this channel on Patreon: / justwrite
I've talked about the movie adaptation. I've talked about the sequel series. Now, finally, it's time to dig into the one that started it all! In this episode, I take a look at Avatar: The Last Airbender and find one simple way to improve a character's backstory.
New videos every other Friday (at least in theory!)
Join the community!
Website ▶ www.justwritem...
Twitter ▶ / sagehyden
Facebook ▶ / justwriteyoutube
“Electric Mantis - Daybreak | Majestic Color”
• Electric Mantis - Dayb...

[@GreatFlamingEyebrows_]

Also worth noting that Zuko’s backstory has him turn into the villain by doing something good whereas Aang’s backstory has him do something bad that motivates him to be the hero

[@yasminraveh599]

Wow that's a great point

[@princessthyemis]

OMG you're right!!!! FANTASTIC point!!

[@cameronporter7987]

Whoah. That contrast juxtaposing the two characters. That's brilliant. Thanks for pointing that out.

[@Laroling]

agreed. it was kind of an ironic little 'chiasm' or ying and yang thing, where Aang chickened out like a child, and Zuko decided to finally grasp all 'mature' courage to speak up, both were punished for their actions.

[@sophiagomez5619]

*mind blown*

[@taranwanderer5914]

What's also fascinating is Iroh's ghost: the death of his son. It's rarely mentioned, but not only does he blame himself for Lu Ten's death, but it's also his primary motivation. He seeks redemption by "saving" his son surrogate, Zuko.

[@taranwanderer5914]

1 like = 1 hug

[@j.ackermann9110]

If someone ever makes another Avatar show it should be about Iroh, there is so much to tell (but the risk of ruining one of the best characters ever).

[@Sinewmire]

"Happy birthday, my son. If only I could have helped *you*." Goddamn smoke in my eyes.

[@eungeran07]

I some what agree, But i think Zuko isnt a surrogate son (well kinda at surface level). I think Iroh sees his younger self in Zuko. he walked the same path for the fire nation, but everything he once thought brought him honor, only brought him tragedy and despair. He realized the error in his ways. were with zuko, he cant just tell him, he tries but his main focus is for zuko to see it himself.

[@samueledwards5705]

@@eungeran07 Idk man. I know Iroh's history has been complicated, and he definitely feels guilty about that, but it feels pretty explicit that they are surrogate father/son. There's a conversation Between Iroh and Zuko when he leaves to infiltrate the North Pole: Iroh: "It's just, ever since I lost my son..." Zuko: "Uncle, you don't have to say it." Iroh: "...I think of you as my own." Zuko: "...I know uncle." And then there's the line that Zuko throws at the Firelord about how Iroh is the one "who has been a real father to me."

[@Beacuzz]

I love how Zuko's impression of Iro still makes sense even if he doesn't know how

[@pinkajou656]

“Zuko, you have to look within yourself to save yourself from your other self. Only then will your true self reveal itself.”

[@alliu6562]

I think the funniest part is that he’s actually right. That advice is what he really needed. He needed to look within himself, to save himself (Zuko’s true image) from your other self (the self that is perceived by others). Only then will his true self (self explanatory) reveal itself.

[@teeemtee5739]

Argubably the best American made cartoon ever. The definition of a masterpiece.

[@CheCheDaWaff]

I think Gravity Falls puts up a good fight to be honest.

[@teeemtee5739]

Modus Ponens oh I've never seen it but I'll believe you.

[@deathmetalpotato]

Clearly you've never seen Widget the World Watcher

[@teeemtee5739]

B. Jr. No I haven't. Is it good? And what is it about?

[@Plasmabolt64]

Modus Ponens gravity falls is great but I️ don’t think it deserves to be contended with Avatar. Tho I️ can see it contending with Rick and Morty. I️ think something like Bojack Horseman could compete with Avatar.

[@DrShaym]

I want to make another point about tragic backstories: a common criticism of "Mary Sue" characters is that they are often portrayed as always in the right or like anything they do is justified, no matter how bad it is. Bad writers will often give a character a tragic backstory and use it to not just _explain_ the character's behavior, but to _excuse_ it. They might, for example, have an angsty character do something that any sane person would call evil, but other characters will forgive them just because their parents didn't love them or something and we're meant to feel sorry for them. A tragic backstory should serve to establish a character's flaws and weaknesses so they can overcome them and grow as a person. If you're using it as an excuse, then the character isn't growing and you've completely missed the point of a backstory.

[@galwitprifor001]

Didn't expect you here.

[@shaz5200]

Leaves from the vine Falling so slow Like fragile tiny shells Drifting in the foam Little soldier boy Come marching home Brave soldier boy Comes marching home 😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@dr6559]

Sharlene Gray How dare you do this to me I didn't want to be sad today.

[@ralphparker4757]

Sharlene Gray Didn't expect to be crying this early today

[@jasonco2]

Heard the music... got feels. :-/

[@Imbedersup]

My eyes got a bit wet when that song started playing.

[@DrAlchem01]

Has it started raining indoors for anyone else? Cos me too thanks :)

[@johndalenino]

What line that struck me the most was when Katara told Aang that there's is hope now that the avatar returned AND when uncle Iroh said the avatar also gave zuko hope (that he can finally go back home if he captured him.) Both very opposite context but very clever about how hope was used.

[@andrewmurphy1290]

What a my favorite things about this episode, is that the ghost of the antagonist was caused by standing up for the innocent, but the ghost of the protagonist was caused by selfishly neglecting responsibilities. This plays with the audiences expectations and brings surprising depth to the show.

[@Mark.mp3]

Zuko and Aang have such a beautiful connection of intertwining destinies. That is why the show had such beautiful character development.

[@24FramesOfNick]

Man I remember seeing the skeletons of the airbending tribe as a kid and being so genuinely shocked. It was one of the first times as a child where I saw something with that mature and dark of an image in a cartoon

[@AgarthaFan]

24 Frames Of Nick This is so true

[@arturofernandez4058]

That's the best part of this show and Korra. It IS a show for kids (despite how much or when have we here watched it), but it doesn't dumb down. Even though it is directed at kids it treats the audience as inteligent people. It's far from an R rating but it doesn't shy away from grimm mnaginery or dark and complex themes

[@arturofernandez4058]

Ugitzu That is the thing. That expresses it better. A show for kids can still horrify its audience or make them cry. Usual shows are afraid of inspiring emotion to kids, they're afraid it's gonna traumatize them. The end result is fluffy and bland

[@EstherHulst-Artist]

24 Frames Of Nick i was an adult when i saw that, i wasnt shocked but i didnt expected it and i cried out in sadness that aang had to see that.

[@jacknapier9042]

Aw, man, you had it easy. Once when I was sick at home from school I went through the old VHSs we had and didn't want to watch the movies I'd seen 7855567 times, and saw one I never heard of, 'The Lord of the Rings' the animated one. Holy shit, those orcs may look dorky to an adults eyes, but I'd never seen rotoscoping so horrific. I didn't sleep well for like a year after that.

[@helenawave]

dont you DARE play leaves from the vine without warning again oh my god dont do this to me

[@iriagomez5269]

Dyo read the comment before I got to that part... So I guess I received a warning from you😂

[@helenawave]

i cried for ten minutes straight

[@dr6559]

Andreas Scott If it's filler, it's the best goddamn filler ever.

[@shaun7824]

The fact that the first few seconds when that song started playing almost made me tear up says quite a lot

[@bowietwombly5951]

@@Sco10 It's also 1000% more devastating when you know that Mako, the actor who played Iroh, passed away before the series was done, and that episode is the last time you hear his voice. They dedicated that episode to him and it destroys me every time.

[@dragoniraflameblade]

"Leaves from the vine, falling so slow..." *Ugly cries*

[@kata1261]

Still the only thing that can bring me to tears just by thinking about that vignette.

[@tactilcalhorize]

I honestly teared up a bit just because he was playing that song.

[@TheLionPear]

I completely lost track of what he was saying at that point because I was trying not to lose it

[@JamieFVidz]

Scrolling the comments to make sure i was not the only one. phew

[@redhood3952]

same here

[@WowlxX]

I am 30 years old and I only recently watched Avatar and wow I have to admit this is one of my favorite shows of all time. I can't believe it took me so long to watch it. Masterpiece

[@shaz5200]

There's also the sequel series Legend of Korra which is worth a watch. Not as high quality and there were budget issues with the final season but still covers some complicated topics.

[@WowlxX]

Sharlene Gray Good to know you liked it. I have been hesitating because I heard some harsh critics of the sequel and I usually find it hard to watch a follow-up of lesser quality to something I thoroughy enjoyed. But I might give it a try anyway since you and other people think it's worth it!

[@timothymclean]

I remember watching the first season and enjoying it. I don't think I saw it for the brilliant show it was at the time...but I _did_ remember it long after many other cartoons had faded from my memory.

[@shaz5200]

WowlxX I think because Korra was a fully realised Avatar by the end of the first season, there just wasn't as much drive to the other three seasons. But they still cover some decent issues. There's a reason Nickolodeon took it off TV and put the episodes online instead after the first season. There's also a few comic books out that cover what happened to Zuko's mum, how the world recovered after the war, etc. Worth a look :)

[@WowlxX]

Sharlene Gray Awesome! That's good to know I'll give it a try :) Thanks!

[@vicenteortegarubilar9418]

You bring HONOR to the memory of Avatar. Well done Mr just write

[@lukeskywalkerthe2nd773]

Vicente Ortega Rubilar I strongly agree man :)

[@15oClock]

HONOR.

[@stormiethedark6355]

+

[@EstherHulst-Artist]

Luke Skywalker the 2nd me 2♡

[@shineinouzen7412]

HONOR. (Aren't Avatar memes the best?)

[@vicenteortegarubilar9418]

You need to fight yourself to save yourself from your other self to become your real self. BRILLIANT!!!

[@Beacuzz]

Some how makes sense even when it doesn't

[@angelikaskoroszyn8495]

trust nobody, even yourself self

[@jessicav931]

What episode is that one?

[@dominikvolzke2827]

Book 3 Episode 12

[@sofivear]

Vicente Ortega Rubilar I never realised it actually made sense!!!

[@enzmondo]

Probably the perfected and realised form of Aang and Zuko’s characters is Uncle Iroh. Uncle Iroh’s story is one of the most compelling actually. He was a formidable general and leader. But he had the unfortunate opportunity of having his only son dying in battle. This totally broke him. He lost his title as heir to the throne. He lost the respect of his own blood and family. But all of this was lampshaded by the fact he feels regretful for the death of his son. He blamed himself for that tragedy in his life. I say perfected and fully realised because he had overcome this part of his life long before the show started. He needed to be a perfected character so that he can teach both Zuko and Aang of his past experiences. He even had some interactions with the other protagonists like Toph. He’s able to pass down wisdom because of all the lessons he’s learnt in his years of growing up as a royal, training, and fighting in the army. The reason he rarely made mistakes in the show is that he already went through that before. This is why Iroh is my favourite character in the entire show. And what made me sympathise with him more is the fact that he tries to raise a good nephew, prince, and person but constantly keeps being rejected by Zuko. You really feel for Iroh in the show. And that one glimpse of his weakness and “ghost” in the Tales of Ba Sing Se just broke me. He still sees his ghost (his son) but has learnt to be at peace with it.

[@Arkylie]

Iroh truly is a properly formed mature character, and it's interesting that this entails him being silly, and at times seemingly unprofessional, and so on. He's not caught up in trying to prove himself. As a character in ElfQuest once said (paraphrase) "You ever see a wolf pick a fight to prove it's no longer a cub? Those who keep fighting through the years are trying to prove their place. I know who I am; I need resent no one." I forget which writing resource had it this way... possibly Power Screenwriting and/or The Seven Basic Plots?... but the idea was that you see the story, the true plot, from different points of view. And seeing it from outside or after gives you the Mentor, a character who has already gone through the hero's journey and emerged out the other side, and now is there to pass along wisdom to the next generation going through the same journey. Iroh has had his journey; now he calmly waits for his wisdom to be called upon, and offers hints of it to see whether Zuko is ready to receive it. This is also how Iroh can be a character who exists without direct enmity toward the main team. He even shares tea with Toph, and in a later episode talks to the team (I forget why, I just remember their surprise when he was at their door). He is not precisely free of ties to nation, family, etc., but he is free to think outside the box and to accept that those not directly attacking him can be interacted with as friends, without fear or tension or resentment.

[@jonathanraecrisanto5912]

There should be a short series of Iroh's story

[@noonebossesthegarnet2890]

He liberated Ba Sing Se with the white lotus to completely redeem himself. If you ask me, Ba Sing Se's liberation is one of the most underrated battles in the show.

[@keyan1219]

@@Arkylie I also like how the show makes him seem as just a unimportant comedic character whilst also giving hints as to his wisdom and power

[@wolacouska3698]

@@Arkylie The point where he goes to the team was actually to beg them to help save Zuko, which shows how deeply he cares about him.

[@kmcfadden6136]

I only wish we had the backstory of the “MY CABBAGES!” man

[@joaocaju3061]

Think it prob would have a deep meaning behind it and would made the whole thing less funny ("Great, now I am feeling guilty of laughing of the cabbage man, since his dead wife used to plant cabbages").

[@AJJr-hc5lz]

João Caju dude Issa joke

[@mreverything7056]

You talking about rip off Adachi?

[@wesleypatterson2989]

Ah, yes, the TRUE main character

[@Lycanthromancer1]

Cabbage Merchant's ghost? Huh. He blames himself for not being able to patch up his cabbages to fix them. He left his cabbage patch at home.

[@TheSchaef47]

Zuko is a tremendous character.

[@IamMyselftification]

We just don't see character development like his anymore...

[@AliceDiableaux]

I'd definitely dare to say he is the best character ever written, period.

[@EsmeeAnnamarie]

Unpopular opinion here: I like Aang better than Zuko. Zuko's too angsty and in the beginning of the show he was too moody and (honestly) acted like a spoiled brat a lot, while towards the end he became a bit emotionless. I just never felt a connection with him. As a child I could relate to Aang's Optimistic and pacifistic lifestyle much more easily, and I still can. Aang lost everything he'd ever known, but he was able to remain true to himself in spite of that. It would have been so easy for him to become bitter and resentful, but he didn't, he never sought revenge against the fire nation because he knew it would cloud his judgement. And he didn't get stuck in his ways either, which is another thing that would've been so easy to do. Instead he continued to grow and take on his responsibilities more and more seriously. That takes incredible strength. Although it made his character growth a lot more subtle, instead of a long series of more specific, very obvious moments that defined Zuko's growth. Where Zuko had to fight through his other self to get to his true self, Aang remained true to his true self while his true self grew, if that makes sense. And I just related to Aang's way of growing more easily. I also like Iroh better than Zuko, because he faced adversity (at least as much of it as Zuko) and he came out a kinder, wiser man. He was able to learn from his past in a way no one else on the show did. His story touched me more than any other. Of course I love Zuko too. I love all the characters of A:TLA.

[@WhiteExorcist1]

Esmée Bruinsma It‘s not necessarily about who you like more, I prefered Aang as a kid too, but rather about appreciating how very fleshed out zuko‘s character is. Especially emotionally. But of course Aangs is as well. They‘re both amazing. Most characters in this show are honestly...

[@dune1774]

Zukos arc is a masterpiece!

[@yuxie3048]

I'm shocked you decided not to talk about the other thing that made Avatar's backstory so powerful; the comparison of our hero and villain who have mirroring stories and thus give a stronger reason to both characters, creating more tension in the conflict.

[@Mark.mp3]

Dude one of the best moments in Avatar is when he is talking with the guru and he shows Aang how gyatso's love transformed into new love a.k.a katara, such a beautiful analogy about grief turned into new love

[@Mark.mp3]

No story has ever been at Avatars level, it really saddens me because it's such a great example of a perfect classic story that lives on for years

[@lugbzurg8987]

If you like Avatar, I would STRONGLY recommend looking into a series called "Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood"! And I can tell... you DO like Avatar!

[@OliverHeikkinen]

You know you have a good show when just hearing the song melody from a certain scene makes you tear up.

[@markephraim7349]

i love how ppl still talk about avatar even after ending a decade ago

[@holyX]

most overrated show ever probably. not bad, but definitely far from perfect.

[@Ratchet2431]

@@holyX There is practically not a single bad episode. What, according to you, doesn't make it perfect?

[@ILLTAKEAPIKACHU]

SPOILER ALERT! Though you think Jet's story is one dimensional, there is an immense layer of irony. He hated the Fire Nation and justified his revenge driven actions as a form of protection. Yet in the end it was the Earth Kingdom that killed him.

[@fridolfk]

Oh man, I haven't thought about that. You're so right

[@josesosa3337]

Liam Jones I understand what your trying to say but maybe its like a cycle, jet wanted to destroy that fire nation village using water but Ang beats him with air, later jet dies at the earth kingdom.

[@AvatarCritic]

Wow, I've watched this show dozens of times, its my favorite show, and my youtube channel is even about Avatar and I never realized that irony. I feel like there's always something new to notice or realize about this show. Update: I made a video based on this comment kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWKXg6p7h7OIgbc

[@LightTrack-]

It was one man that killed him not the Earth Kingdom as a whole though.

[@matthewbrown5464]

AvatarCritic that's one of the things that proves how amazing Avatar is. The show has such a level of depth and complexity that it not only warrants analysis videos like this very one, but it also requires several plus viewings in order to fully realize some of the small thematic snippets in the storytelling that make the show's overall narrative and everything that contributes to it that much more masterful. Truly the best work of fiction that I have ever experienced

[@nvwest]

I love how Zuko is the antagonist even though he isn't a bad guy.

[@youngcanuck5397]

Envy West that would be because an antagonist opposes the protagonist. He or she doesn't have to be a "bad guy" or even the villain of the story.

[@Hakuu_A19]

Every time I see a video analysing ATLA I just have to watch it, especially if it's by Just Write! My favourite universe and characters of all time!

[@lukeskywalkerthe2nd773]

Arif Ahmed Ikr :)

[@KylerRamos]

Interesting, it's kinda like the spider-man dilemma. He blames himself for his uncle's death, with great power comes great responsibility. Also avatar the last air bender is easily one of the best tv shows, zuko and irohs arc is sooo gud.

[@tariqthomas9090]

Great video! One thing though: Aang and Zuko are great examples of this subject, but I'm a little surprised Katara wasn't mentioned. Her tragic backstory makes her a little different because she acknowledges that she did all she could, but it's so deeply rooted into her flaws and character growth. For instance, she becomes a much darker, hateful person when she's triggered by her past (which is a complete 180 for her), and I personally find that just as interesting as being haunted by the "ghost".

[@drfifteenmd7561]

Ah yes, the narrative trio.

[@meris8486]

One of the few episodes of Avatar I managed to watch while scrolling through cartoon channels as a kid. What I liked so much is how it makes you sympathise with Zukko. After this I didn't see him as a villain but a complex character that I hoped could be redeemed

[@youngcanuck5397]

headbite alien yeah, I know what you mean. I watched this show blind at 18 years old and I was blown away. This episode thoroughly convinced me that Zuko was not a bad person. The Agni Kai scene really surprised me. It wasn't the blatant child abuse, which would have gained my sympathy anyway, that changed my view of Zuko, but why it happened. These bad things happened to Zuko not because he did something bad but because he did something good. And he was punished for it.

[@Arkylie]

"No good deed goes unpunished" is key to the backstories of any number of tragic figures. I'm glad that Zuko was able to grow beyond it. I didn't think about Zuko defining honor the wrong way until this video pointed it out, but yeah, absolutely. That scene was so key to Zuko's growth. There's this principle where the hero (or any character, really) is seeking a Goal that he thinks will make him happy, but his goal is mistaken, and at a crucial point he's going to have to decide between seizing the original goal (and ending up with unhappiness or frustration -- a bad ending) or accepting that the goal is not his to take, and changing to a different goal (but ultimately winning the thing he thought the goal would bring him, thus ending up with happiness and completion -- a good ending). For example, in "Arms and the Man" by George Bernard Shaw, the character Raina expects to marry her fiance, Sergius, but in the end ends up losing him and marrying instead Sergeant Bluntschli. She thought that happiness was to be found in Sergius, but in fact her future was to be different, and she still found fulfillment in the end. Same thing if the hero has to give up on a treasure -- or accept a finale where he doesn't get the praise he rightly deserves for saving the world. He can still find meaning and happiness within a different sort of ending. Zuko let go of his father's approval as a goal, but then, in the end, took his father's place and led his nation into a true prosperity -- a far more worthy goal, and one that provided him with happiness and peace of mind, without the kind of internal conflict that he had while he was trying to be a good little boy for his warmongering dad.

[@lukeskywalkerthe2nd773]

Avatar is such a Masterpiece and has some of the greatest writing for I show that I have ever seen and it truly is a lesson to aspiring writers on how to write excellent Backstory but anyway I absolutely loved this video Just and can't wait for the next one!!!!! :)

[@Reality-Distortion]

Greatest writing is quite an overstatement tho. Book of Fire was pretty entertaning but in writing terms it was lame.

[@BratzRockAngels]

I aspire to write an animated show or movie as great as Avatar one day.

[@thenightingale3347]

the second I heard "Little Soldier Boy" you had me in tears. Well done sir, well done.

[@tomboy2980]

See the thing is that after rewatching Avatar over a year ago with a friend and being reminded of how truly great this show from my early childhood was, it's... basically consumed my life since. Avatar, to me, is the greatest show of all time, or at the very least my favorite show of all time. But I also came back to it so many years later as an aspiring storyteller, so I've been analyzing it's techniques and nuances for a while now about what makes this show so great to me. Borderline: anytime someone talks about it I'm always a bit too passionate in terms of listening and responding, so when this popped up in my feed- a video from the creator of a separate video that helped redefine my love for the Legend of Korra- I was really curious to hear your thoughts. AND I CAN'T BELIEVE I NEVER NOTICED THAT SUBTLE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A 'TRAGIC' AND A 'COMPELLING' BACKSTORY. I just wanted to comment thank you for A, helping me with my writing, and B, talking about this show in a way that does it justice to me. I absolutely love your channel man, keep writing.

[@bethanymathews5392]

Julie K AHHH SO GREAT TO SEE SOMEONE AS CONSUMED BY THIS SHOW AS I AM

[@holyX]

It's a 7/10 show. Nothing too special.

[@ayandak47]

How's your story telling going?

[@MrBKainX]

Awesome, great to see you make a video on the greatest tv show of all time.

[@appledough3843]

Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood, Death Note, Cowboy Bebop, One Piece, Rick and Morty. Need I go on?

[@si-vt1rt]

All great, but all have their flaws. Death Note is considered the best anime by many yet it falls so flat after (you-know-which-episode). Avatar seems like an ageless masterpiece although FMA Brotherhood does come close.

[@georgegeorgex]

Its just one of the greatest cartoon series there is, not the greatest.

[@125loopy]

Alex Majin It's the greatest TV show of ALL TIME.

[@JM-us3fr]

Definitely my favorite kids show so far, but Avatar has its shortcomings. The Fire season could have been written better, the romance between Aang and Katara wasn't believable, and the Fire Lord didn't feel like nearly as good a villian as Azula. Those are my biggest gripes. I also wish Legend of Korra had MUCH better writing, but that's a different story

[@lilpoteto6486]

Why would you end it with "Leaves from the Vine"?? You tryna make me tearbend? :'(

[@cardle9952]

I know, it's just fucking evil :'(

[@voidify8963]

Yoooo are you taters, from the chat?? I didn’t know you’d watched Avatar! (If you aren’t the person I think you are, pls disregard lmao)

[@EmpireSun]

This video essay much explains why Suicide Squad is such a train-wreck, the backstories for the characters is almost completely abandoned and has no semblance of relevancy.

[@manuelaag99og]

Good video, but I think you're making the common mistake of looking to how a particular case worked rather tan the big picture. It's excellent in both Avatar and Batman Begins, don't get me wrong, but the lesson to be taken away is not to do exactly what those two works did --making the characters blame themselves (imagine how repetitive that would get) --, but rather to make that backstory have a purpose, and a direct relation to the character's current state. As a previous commentator said, it's more about doing something that gives a character opportunity for growth, rather than it specifically being self-blame.

[@antiquatedannomaly]

This is a great episode, but I think you're overly focused in on a few points. Yeah, a character blaming themselves for something bad having happened is much more compelling than something bad just happening randomly to them. But I think the take away isn't that particular formula, but the dynamic of introducing an opportunity for character growth and showing how a character changed and why they act the way they do through their backstory. Let's say that a character (Maggie) is in a car accident at an early age and her parents die. Well, that's sad and is already a decent backstory, but let's also say that because of this random accident, they refuse to ever get in a car ever again. Maggie isn't blaming themselves, she wasn't driving, but there is still a consequence of the accident that reaches into the present narrative and an opportunity for you to show their growth by, say, having them get in a taxi at the end of the story so that they can do something important in time. Them blaming themselves isn't as important, what's important is the Ghost. That whatever happened in the backstory still has a hand on the steering wheel of their life.

[@jjmaster322]

Zuko has one of the best character arcs.

[@thelittleredhairedgirlfrom6527]

I'd like to add that in the comics Batman blames himself because he was the one who told his mother to wear the pearls Joe Chill killed her to get.

[@violacrb]

Well done! In a world in which so many writers insist on telling us every boring detail about their characters, this brings the focus back to what actually makes a story interesting.

[@memicoot]

We didn't deserve TLA. Such an incredile show, I feel honored and lucky to have had it in my life.

[@R3natavids]

Loved it! I feel like another reason The Storm is so uniquely awesome is that it sets up these dove-tailing backstories between Aang & Zuko, AND it shows the audience the parallels before the characters are aware of it in-universe. So in addition to inciting each one's character development it creates this huge anticipation where we can't wait for them to realize how similar they are. These two lines always blow my mind- Katara telling Aang "You give people hope," vs Iroh saying "The Avatar gives Zuko hope." Talk about 'two sides of the same coin'!

[@svenservette4197]

The Zuko scene at the end was fantastic with the flashbacks. Great video!!!

[@josesosa3337]

In regards to jet it might be like a cycle. He tried to destroy the fire nation village using water and was defeated by ang using air bending, he was then killed at the earth kingdom.

[@RagnarokMic]

Is an amazingly told story start to finish, with the greatest "clip show"-esque episode of all time. Took a trope and made comedy gold.

[@josephdakin1400]

The episode "The Fortune Teller" is one of the best written...anythings ever. It has comedy, it has heart, it tackles the idea of fate/self-determinism, and Aang tries many different ways to avert catastrophe - only at the end does he need to use his full powers to protect the village. Sublime storytelling.

[@MeatyGorak]

oh man you just had to play that Leaves from the Vine music, always hits me so hard in the feels

[@Aezeus]

*Best animated series ever*

[@OwnnOfficial]

Good one

[@lukeskywalkerthe2nd773]

sum CLINT I strongly agree :)

[@Aezeus]

BK only one there that comes close for me is Rick and Morty, but their latest season was pretty shit so yeah nah

[@appledough3843]

Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood, Death Note, Cowboy Bebop, One Piece, Rick and Morty. Need I go on?

[@poeterritory]

Rick and Morty might make me laugh but I don't give two craps what happens to the characters or find their backstories compelling. Not like Avatar TLA.

[@JC19021]

I adore this show so much. I'm constantly asking my friends to watch it, no one understands how great it is until they actually sit down and watch it.

[@common_undead]

Zuko's Uncle Impression gets me every time. Haha. Great video. I wish I had found this channel sooner. Through your videos I have learnt so much more, than what I thought was to storytelling

[@lobenzo9342]

That’s the thing about current cartoons these days. I feel like they are lacking maturity, you know? I get that it is meant for kids, but when we were kids shows like this actually taught lessons with good storylines. I feel like that is an aspect that is forgotten.

[@Chook181]

Another great example of masterful backstory completely informing character interactions, opinions, and relationships is the whole of the Golden Age arc. It may be a flashback that lasts upward of 50 chapters, but there is a good reason it's considered one of the greatest stories ever told in fiction. This video's thesis on back-stories perfectly encapsulates why the Golden Afe arc us so good.

[@AlexLove631]

This was great. Loved this show as a kid. Wish more were like it today. And yea, Batman blames himself for everything lol.

[@borjankosarac3645]

And it's why I don't care for the Joker/Jack Napier being the killer of his parents, as in "Batman (1989)" - it does tie them together in a personal way yes, but it doesn't really challenge Bruce/Batman beyond making him fixated on his nemesis; not only does he outright kill the Joker in the end (unlike in "The Dark Knight", where he still saves his ass), not only does it arguably validate personal vengeance... but it ends his arc there. It's not a bad idea in theory, but in execution there are many better ways to go about it.

[@dviproductions3493]

arrow too

[@TechNomad]

Best animated show of all time, no exceptions. Edit: Probably gonna delete this comment because people are getting really triggered by it.

[@deathmetalpotato]

BK Those all suck

[@TechNomad]

None of those have the compelling story telling that this show does.

[@RogierVJ]

Have you watched all of them? A couple of the shows he listed are some of the best examples of storytelling in animated television.

[@bored_person]

+TechNomad Many of them do.

[@AlexLove631]

Batman TAS, JL/JLU, Spectacular Spider-Man, etc., are all up there

[@brewxx]

I've watched Avatar a couple months ago with my 14 years old sister (again after 10 years) and could not be more perfect, such a great journey. Great video!

[@ThesmartestTem]

Avatar actually serves as a big inspiration for my current WIP. Even the way magic functions in the universe I am building is a nod to it.

[@Kekkersboy]

This is another reason man of steel failed. There are two main ways to have Superman's family in the story. Have them both be alive and a constant loving connection to his humanity. Or have any death be from natural causes teaching him that powers or not. People will die and you have to cherish every moment and every life. Sometimes people die and it's not your fault.

[@frankwest5388]

Kekkersboy I know this is late but I have to agree. In a way his “backstory” was something incredible avoidable. If he went to save the dog nothing would have happened. Is someone would have seen him he could just say: yah I was lucky we all made it. I hate that movie so much.

[@syd8010]

hearing that atla music makes me want to cry :( a masterpiece of a show in every way possible: characters, plot, voice actors, soundtrack, animation, humor, etc.

[@tlightning8383]

I never realized just how spot on Zuko’s impersonation of Iroh actually was. That is indeed probably exactly what he would’ve told him. Goes to show how Zuko truly did take in everything Iroh taught him, even if he rarely chose to listen.

[@icywinterof88]

The song at 6:50...know irohs song.....god that one brings me to tears every time. This show is still one of the most amazing pieces of art I have ever seen. It's so near and dear to my heart. Well done video good sir.

[@HDRTeam]

The last airbender is one of the few things I'd consider a masterpiece

[@MarkFilipAnthony]

In BvS there is also an emotional core, as Bruce feels powerless in comparison to his father to not be able to save his parents, this feeling of powerlessness haunts him through out the movie, and gets triggered into toxic rage when superman shows up. The feeling of powerlessness haunts him through out the film through different aspects in nightmare sequence, and ends up in a finally when superman seemingly causes a big explotion and many deaths. His fear of not being strong enough consumes his mind until he's so blind that the only thing that snaps him out of it, is the moment superman sacrifices himself for his own parent. Despite being powerless, superman never stopped fighting emotionally. And as long as superman lives, Bruce has sees hope again in the world, Bruce feels powerful again.

[@Dan_d00d]

Have watched endless ATLA discussion/review/commentary/analysis vids, its hard to encounter anything new to chew over these days. It is one of the most complete and balanced series ever. But you did succeed (as usual) on delivering a new and nuanced point of discussion on the character dev side. Nice. and also , so deliberate, the use of 'leaves from the vine' music at the end, to bring in nostalgic emotional response. ;)

[@KoiPuff]

*starts playing Leaves from the vine* I thought I was past this! It's been over ten years! ... nope... still hurts. *openly weeps*

[@JoshuaFagan]

Thank you for these videos. You really understand what makes a narrative work. Your videos are better than most writing classes, and they're totally free. You're doing all the writers of the world, aspiring or otherwise, a great service.

[@tomstein7131]

i only just realised how great zuko’s imitation of uncle is. the advice he gives himself is exactly what uncle would’ve said, only in simpler and more abstract terms. not only that, but it’s also exactly correct advice!! god i love this show so much we truly don’t deserve it

[@Mark.mp3]

Aang went through so much, amazing character

[@resolutionpictures8478]

TLAB truly is one of the best, well paced, well written shows in existence. And it actually got BETTER with age, as I appreciate the show and its themes so much more as an adult.

[@urjits25]

ok, fine! 😂 I'll read that book 'The Anatomy of the Story' It's referred so many times, in every film-writing channel I follow!

[@thelittlewoman]

Urjit Sardesai It's great and so insightful! My writing feels like it's growing from a seed into a flower whenever I follow the steps in the book. I highly recommend it!

[@reneelucero2923]

OMG I KNOW RIGHT!

[@carmena.gonzalezrios8372]

www.pixellized.com/assets/the_anatomy_of_story.pdf

[@urjits25]

carmen a. gonzalez rios Thank you 😊

[@yanshero42]

Wow thank you!

[@ezraross6792]

That bit where you played leaves on the vine was absolutely BRILLIANT about another fine example of character conflict

[@CarlosRodriguez-dh7mm]

Been waiting for an Avatar episode. Honestly, this is my favorite show of all time. I still remember the sorrow I felt after the Day of Black Sun airing. Such effective storytelling for children and still compelling for adults.

[@blindOni]

Leaves from the vine... Falling so slow. Everytime that plays I get teary eyed.

[@polnaszek5]

Avatar: The Last Airbender is one of the most special things to ever exist. Please give it a watch if you haven’t, if this video didn’t do a good enough convincing you it’s qualities. (SPOILERS: It should’ve)

[@GirlWithHeadphones18]

as a writer, i physically had my head in my hands like!! i could never quite express what makes up a good backstory other than “that action changes them,” but its never felt quite right. noting how a character does not just have to change their actions and desires as a result of an event, but also has to feel responsible for it before they can change explains so much

[@questman7799]

Uncle Iroh was THE MAN.

[@davidnobre5660]

leaves from the vine, falling so slow... great video, subscribed

[@Teel217]

Anyone else get annoyed when anime fans come to flex their muscles on an Avatar related video? These superiority complexes are strong man. Nothing touches Avatar. Nothing.

[@shineinouzen7412]

You ain't never lied Hippie Ganjalord Zuko

[@StaySomniaaa]

When leaves from the vine started playing in the background... I'm not crying, you're crying!

[@quinterbeck]

6:51 YOU CAN'T JUST PLAY LEAVES FROM THE VINE WITHOUT WARNING LIKE THAT

[@ScreenSlayr]

Tugged right at my heart strings when I heard Iroh’s song at 6:51

[@77777Spooky]

I wouldn't agree with the notion that Avatar should be called an anime just because it was awesome. There are a few examples of Japanese animes that stink but are still considered anime. The term "cartoon" has a negative connotation to it, but that's what Avatar is, one of the greatest television series ever that just happens to be a cartoon. Think of it this way, Avatar gives cartoons a good name.

[@fridolfk]

Same.. It leaves a bad taste in my mouth when people call it anime because it's good. Especially since, I, myself aren't a particularly huge fan of anime overall. (There are still anime's that I absolutely adore though, it's just that just because it's anime doesn't make it great. Same of course goes for cartoons, but yeah). Cartoons can be just as good. It all has to do with the creators, not whether or not it's anime or a cartoon. And it makes me kind of sad that people seem to view it that way.

[@reneelucero2923]

Yep, and cartoons don't suck either. Steven Universe, Adventure Time, Rick and Morty, Bojack Horseman, Batman, Teen Titans, etc. Cartoons are actually, in my opinion, better than most animes.

[@boredfangerrude]

Anime is short for animation therefore, Avatar IS an anime. On the flip side, what we consider anime are just Japanese cartoons. So really, they are not that completely different types of entertainment.

[@calcumalators]

Plenty of anime is utter shit. I don't see why the title of anime is a title at all. It's like considering "TV Drama" to be an honorary; there are good TV dramas and terrible TV dramas. It's just a genre.

[@boredfangerrude]

Did you not read my comment? It's short for animation as in animated. It makes sense.

[@leostarrs-cunningham8576]

Love the insights. Plus, Aang and Zuko's backstories are intertwinned. Fantastic writing.

[@opposumness3107]

When Leaves from the wind started to play, I got chills down my whole body. Goosebumps too. That performance of the song is almost unobtainable, if not impossible. His low tones are just barely a semitone too high. And it works brilliantly You hear Mako pour his heart out and deliver straight from his soul. How does one replicate that?

[@Lenny-ue8hk]

4 words: Leaves From The Vine

[@happysun101love]

Goddamnit... how dare you play leaves from the vine when making the conclusion of your point PLUS it's a love letter to the writing of my favorite show I'M CRYING NOW

[@nathanhogan6873]

btw for all the people who do still say: "Avatar isn't an anime because it's not made in japan" When asked, people in japan said that anime and manga is a matter of style, not nationality, so avatar IS an anime! great vid Just Write, i love your channel, keep up the good work.

[@MangaMarjan]

The "ghost" is not only a tool in story telling, it's the real life. The break-up with my gf still haunts me. And every decision I make is based on this open wound. I blame myself, I blame her. I'm conflicted and so are my actions. I can relate to Suko in so many ways. I don't know what I want, but I still believe I know it. Avatar is the greatest series of all time. It just feels like life.

[@MangaMarjan]

XxD3c0y26Xx ._. It's going up. I have great plans (which are in the making) and I'm meeting a lot of great people. I even think I'm falling in love again. Have a great day ^^

[@joeyjerry1586]

I love your explanation on why Batman Begins’s backstory on Bruce’s parents death is so compelling. That movie deserves to get that same amount of praise as The Dark Knight. Going back to avatar though, this episode is what truly hooked me into the series, I knew it’d be something special

[@Im0nJupiter]

That song near the end is from when we learn about Iroh's dead son. God damn that hit hard.

[@YotYotFive]

I love how this video is more lively than your other video essays. Your new vids are fine, but the tone of this video (and your old Hobbit and TLA analyses) are so much more distinctive.

[@KomodoDojo]

My favorite show of all time. Unfortunatly it has the worst film adaptation of all time.

[@Superiorer]

KomodoDojo and the worst sequal

[@notsoawesomeguy8253]

Legend of Korra was pretty good. Could've been better if Nicklodeon didn't screw over the creators.

[@Superiorer]

Not so awesome guy would have been better of the creators didnt screw over the writers.

[@poweroffriendship2.0]

Don't worry. The original creators of Avatar confirmed there was another live-action version of the show and it's going to be on Netflix. (Without the help of M. Night Shymalalaladingdong)

[@drfifteenmd7561]

Creativity comes from struggles. They just weren't as good writers.

[@wildwesley9328]

This video is a testament to how powerful the Soldier Boy (Leaves From the Vine) song and that part of the episode are, that I got chills and started tearing up as soon as the first few notes hit.

[@totally_not_a_troll]

I am just so happy when my favorite show gets attention :)

[@justin6113]

When "Brave Soldier Boy" started playing in the back round I got goosebumps. Excellent soundtrack.

[@PanRysownikRysuje]

Oh, come the hell on, it shouldn't be allowed to play with my emotions in such a way, playing "soldier boy" in the background.

[@jonedvinz]

Holly shit! You just made Zukos blabering in episode ...51(?) into an writing tip? My god you are a genius!

[@tonyberrigan8347]

I think Avatar seekers would also work for, “how to write a compelling soundtrack “

[@TFconfused]

When that music kicked in I got tears in my eyes thinking about how amazing this show is

[@orppranator5230]

There are few stories that I like as much as Avatar: The Last Airbender. Sure, pacific rim had some of the best action of all time, The Dark Knight had a godly villain. The Incredibles was ahead of its time. But ATLA takes the cake

[@balinttoth9287]

6:55 "Feelings of guilt and regret are probably the most common emotions evoked in any good story because they are absolutely crucial to character development." *plays Leaves from the Vine* NOICE