Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Delicacy of Character

[@jkirstyn]

Can you do this for all the characters this is so beautiful please and thank you

[@meaningofthings]

jkirstyn Hey there! Actually, I did! (at least, most of them) :) kzbin.info/aero/PLkPyXCYVHqiITkzZ2p8_Szu1dsXBAZoVc

[@jkirstyn]

@@meaningofthings I just binged watched all of them! Excellent work man (: Gotta rewatch the series again for the 1000 time haha

[@IsaiahLapierre]

Nobody ever talks about Sokka and his development, thank you for really making me appreciate just how transformative his character was!

[@meaningofthings]

Stoked that you got a lot out of the video!

[@_hadoken]

Stupid to consider him seeking worth in manhood as a character flaw. It is simple development as he does become the man he wants to be - just not right away.

[@Dachusblot]

I don't think that's what the video was saying. Sokka's flaw in the beginning was more that he defined manhood, at least partly, as "being better than girls," whereas throughout the course of the show he learns that manhood is really about integrity, inner strength, and respecting other people. (Sokka has other flaws too, such as acting cocky to hide his insecurities, or blaming himself for not protecting people even when it's not his fault. But I think this is what the video meant about the manhood thing.)

[@meaningofthings]

Dachusblot Dachusblot You're spot on. I acknowledge that there might be reason for one to get confused about the point I was trying to make. The flaw is that Sokka pursues worth in masculinity in the wrong ways, not that the pursuit itself is a flaw. Also, even deeper than that, the flaw is that he pursues such value out of insecurity rather than virtue, and as a result, he often pursues such value to a fault.

[@ailinhernandez5004]

No one's gonna talk about how the show was total perfection but that the creators didn't give Toph enough screen time. She only got the runaway and blind bandit and one metal bending scene. She would of made some badass episodes alone. But in every episode Toph can't get the spotlight for a good 20 or even 10 minutes for herself. And that was in a full 2 seasons. Even sokka got more

[@ladyus8265]

me: sees a deep and well-phrased sokka analysis me: immediately starts crying because i love sokka so much and he's often forgotten or overlooked *cough cough lok cough*

[@meaningofthings]

I'm happy that you appreciate my analysis so much. Sokka is a great character.

[@kongqianfu]

ladyus i also immediately started crying

[@mr.boxerfrown-ray6871]

ladyus oh STFU Lance

[@ladyus8265]

LET ME LOVE SPACE SOKKA IN PEACE

[@arabelleh407]

Y E S

[@aroguebard]

"Unlike the 2008 movie though" The Earth King has invited you to Lake Laogai.

[@TheTororist]

Leo I am honored to accept his invitation.... LAKE PARRRRTY!!!

[@zyaicob]

There is no movie in Ba Sing Se

[@jb0258]

What you hear is merely a myth. No movie has ever been made

[@dziugaslapienis9038]

r/lakelaogai

[@alvinhagerman8164]

I am honored to accept his offer.

[@ivanrakaric9859]

My favourite character is Uncle Iroh, because he is kind, but still shows patriotism for Fire Nation. He always believes in Zuko and motivates him to go on every time, even if he fails. For me he is one of the best characters ever!

[@meaningofthings]

You're right, he is an incredible character.

[@ivanrakaric9859]

And I forgot to mention, he has sense of humor! :D

[@musicalarchery]

Iroh believed in what Zuko could become, which is what made him such an effective father figure. His patriotism for the Fire Nation was similar, in that it was focused on what could be.

[@rubensanchezramirez7028]

He is also very tragic. Being as he was a very renowned general, the war took from him what he valued most (his only son). That loss is what made him change his priorities in life and become wiser. That's why his nephew is the most important thing to him, before his own nation.

[@MyriadSkies]

There's a lot of great stuff about Iroh, but I definitely reckon the importance of him having been a fire-nation general, an enemy in the series in a way, and becoming such a good, lovable, wise and caring person. I do always love seeing people mend their ways and becoming better people =). Especially if then, after that, they help other people become better people. (Kind of reminds me of, for example, ex-gang members who start really helping those less fortunate)

[@nataliewang1587]

There are a hundred and one essays on Zuko's and Aang's arcs - thank you so much for drawing attention to Sokka!

[@nocktukdaze8256]

Natalie Wang Huh. I can find dozens of essays on Zuko's arc but almost nothing on Aang's.

[@sophieh.4097]

YES YES

[@eppoif1]

Where are you finding video analyses on Aang? I'd like to know.

[@judahlewis505]

I also want to know where the videos on aang are?

[@TehMomo_]

Like Zuko's first word was FINALLY... so much in ONE WORD.

[@curtiszyr]

That gives you 2 flashbacks worth of explanation and exposition .

[@quplet]

My favorite TV show of all time. Sokka is a great example for this, everything you said was very rich and on point. However Zuko, in my opinion, is the single best developed character. He goes from being a selfish, almost single minded teen who was only trying to get his life back to the way it was to a lost one, searching for answers and a purpose. Then eventually to a mature, caring man who truly deserves the title of Fire Lord. Zukos true personality or character is not shown in his first appearance or dialogue, but in his struggle throughout the series. "You can't quit because you're afraid you might fail" - Zuko.

[@meaningofthings]

Thanks so much for the feedback! I too believe that Zuko is probably the most well written character of the show. I felt that because it might be instinctive to talk about Zuko , I wanted to showcase the depth of the writing as it relates to a character that one might not automatically think about. Ergo, Sokka was a good subject for the video. However, I do think that Zuko's first word "finally" is a good foundation for his whole character, just as Sokka's first line is. "Finally" indicates longing and desire for something that has been out of reach for a very long time. In Zuko's case, it is his father's approval and love. When Zuko believes that this desire will soon be met (he says that his search is about to come to an end), his first word is "finally". He is not just searching for the physical person of the Avatar, but more than that, he is searching for significance, love, and purpose. In the end, he finally finds that. The word "finally" foreshadows the resolution of Zuko's arc in that he finally receives such things after incredible struggle and suffering.

[@quplet]

Weight Of Cinema You're right. I rewatched the first episode and I now see many foreshadowing lines in his first dialogue. "Set a course for the light!" is my favorite. :D

[@MrSophire]

As a Zuko fan i am glad he choose Sokka, Sokka has great development that is overlooked

[@ZerOrie]

I think the fact that he choose to pick sokka wich is in my opinion one of the weaker character of the main cast and manage to show how well written he is helps to make his point about the writing of the characters in avatar.

[@M.M.Y.B]

QŬPL·EŦ I feel like Zuko's character arc is so beautiful, that it would be a shame to spoil it for those who haven't witnessed it.

[@Pajman77]

Thank you for examining Sokka, most people (rightly) hold up Zuko for examination of character and story arc. By choosing a different character you go a long way to supporting the idea that ALL the major characters are fully fleshed.

[@voytek5550]

they really are to be honest. even Ozai has enough backstory to justify his ambitions.

[@M.M.Y.B]

Voytek Ozai if fully fleshed out and scary. I think that family has such a crazy and amazing dynamic that pulls you straight into it.

[@Elemental-Phoenix]

He basically took the character that had the least amount of focused development and showed how developed and fleshed out he was.

[@nightingale4786]

hell even auxiliary characters like Jet, Haru, Yue, Hama, the Mechanist and many others have more development than average side characters. The fact that I can even name so many side characters off the top of my head is a testament to that!

[@shineinouzen7412]

The cabbage man was the most developed character.

[@CarbotAnimations]

Now analyse the rest of the characters and plot and stuff!! That was perfect!

[@vianeyboruel504]

CarbotAnimations yes!

[@itachi0089]

Agreed!!!!!! :D

[@ruoweilim7334]

i think we can do that ourselves

[@mintbrownieangelfish-6114]

ruoweii I know for me it's hard to see things. I get a lot more from his videos than I've gotten from watching the entire show about 3 times.

[@ruoweilim7334]

well yeah these videos definitely enhance our understanding of the show and i'm not saying the creators of those videos should limit themselves or that we should try to achieve a holistic understanding of it all on our own; i was talking about how we should also try to take it upon _ourselves_ to learn to look at it with a critical eye and form our own opinions and not always rely on others to feed us insight.

[@voltaicdrake5968]

I started tearing up just from seeing that short clip of Sokka protecting Toph as that Fire Nation airship went down. Sokka grew so much as a character throughout this show and the amount of genuine concern he has for others and especially for Toph is wonderful to see. And knowing that Toph has feelings for him and that she actually felt helpless in that moment and allowed Sokka to hold her is so great. That whole scene with the two of them on the airships was emotional.

[@emikotagahushi941]

Jacob Walker did I somehow miss this? Toph has feelings for Sokka???

[@voltaicdrake5968]

Yea. The hinted at towards the end of Season 2 and made a mention of it in Season 3. Around the time Toph and Zukko had that brief moment of bonding.

[@PixieLovesItAll]

It's interesting, my best friend and I equated it to the kind of crush you might get on a friend's older sibling when you're around her age (like 12). It's very innocent and innocuous, mostly because there's no hint at reciprocation despite Sokka caring for her a lot, as family. Yet, her baby crush is still a great example of emotional development and her growing dependency on the group as her support system. Sokka's Master 3x04 has a fun example of her being super tsundere and blushy over nothing in a "I didn't miss you" kind of way, and The Serpent's Pass 2x12 has a more overt example when Suki rescues Toph from drowning, and she kisses Suki assuming it's Sokka in a traditional embarrassing adolescent moment "you can go ahead and let me drown now". Despite the fact that she's the most skilled Earthbender in the world, she still falls trap to the embarrassing human experience of adolescent crushes. And that is what we call a balanced character.

[@voltaicdrake5968]

Exactly! That's what I love so much about the show. All the characters feel like real people, despite how much or how little skill or power they may have. Sokka becomes one of the most matured characters of the show and becomes a real leader that even the Avatar and the Prince of the Fire Nation respect.

[@hunormagyar1843]

@@emikotagahushi941 Yep, it's sure been hinted at. Serpent's Pass or sumthin'. Toph: "I can't swim!" Sokka: "I'm coming Toph!" Suki: **jumps in before Sokka, lifts Toph above the water** Toph: "Oh Sokka, you saved me!" **kisses Suki on the cheek** Suki: "Actually, it's me..." Toph: "Oh. Hehe... _You can go ahead and let me drown now."_

[@reading101]

This video/essay is great! I teach high school English and I used the pilot episode of Avatar: TLA in a media studies unit. The majority of the students had never seen the show because they brushed it off as a "kid's show," but they were all surprised by how much they enjoyed it. It's sophisticated for all the reasons you mentioned: the writing, the direction, the score, etc. I agree 100% with how the delicate treatment of the characters' development is just one of the many reasons why this show is worth watching (and rewatching). A+

[@nyangela4133]

Justin De la Cruz Sir I wish you were my teacher

[@ahmedabusabib5424]

Justin De la Cruz Kids'

[@ginge641]

Really? I saw the first few episodes as fairly basic kids show stuff, to attract audiences before the crazy shit went down.

[@ludwigsolomona9607]

Coolest comment I've ever seen on KZbin

[@God_3712]

you are a legend :)

[@trayccammy186]

Side note : your voice is so relaxing coupled with the score just gave me chills

[@oliviar7819]

Trayccammy18 I started crying lmao

[@braydenk.8348]

I agree! I got literal chills.

[@God_3712]

I felt it too

[@legomoviesstudios8822]

Anyone else notice that the episode titles of the first and final episodes show how Aang's character has grown from " a boy in the iceberg" to " avatar Aang"

[@nicholas-wg4cy]

I love that sokka is the humor relief character but that doesn't mean that he is only the humor relief character. A lot of shows will add characters for humor and that's all they are good for

[@eloujtimereaver4504]

'Come back after you are done crying over how good it is.' I will never stop crying sir.

[@IsraeliDino]

I am with you, hahahaha this show will truly be a part of me forever.

[@carola2358]

Tearbending! Thank you so much for this awesome video. ATLA means so much to me.

[@meaningofthings]

Thank you for watching!

[@shaydawn7376]

Mee too :,(

[@FrankLeeWillis]

I love that you focused on Sokka for this example, even though he's often described by the audience as the comedic relief. And, to top it off, he plays an even bigger role than just in the story. Sokka is essential for the audience because we can relate to him. He's the only non bender that's really important to the series. He doesn't understand bending because, like us, he's not a part of it. The audience's skepticism and confusion towards bending is related through Sokka so we don't feel so out of depth. He's a really underrated character.

[@UTU49]

I think it's some of the strongest story telling I've ever seen. Specifically long-form visual story-telling... meaning television and film series'. If you watch any of the reactors who started watching ATLA this summer, I think they've all found it extremely satisfying. I think the writers put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into it. They took great care designing the world, the characters, the story, the plot, and the themes... and everything else.

[@m3lissr]

Idk why but that "1 to 61" line gave me goosebumps

[@williamdragon9415]

You're introduction is very true. Avatar is a wonderful show but is very often overlooked. Wonderfully done. I especially like how you used text in a visually engaging way. And I am impressed at how well you showed your points through Sokka (who is normally overlooked for an examples of a good characters). Do you have any ideas of what you'll do next?

[@meaningofthings]

Thank you for the kind feedback! And yes, I have many essays written about different movies that I would love to discuss. However, through the creation of this video I have found that the harder work of the process is getting the essay edited. This channel will be a side project of mine, and so I have not taken the time to continue with editing just yet. I do hope and plan to release content as much as possible though. I also have a number of different videos regarding ATLA in addition to this one that I plan to create at some point. So be on the look out for another video soon!

[@voytek5550]

have you uploaded these essays in full anywhere?

[@ahmedabusabib5424]

William Dragon Your*

[@williamdragon9415]

?

[@korpakukac]

Your*

[@evilazulan]

I still remember how heart broken I was when I watched the finale all the way back in 2008. ATLA is a masterpiece.

[@sourcesymbiosismetamorphis2228]

evilazulan, Same. The show was and in some ways still is ahead of its time.

[@Pikminiman]

Too few people talk about Sokka as a character with real depth. He's usually brushed off as the comic relief, which is a huge disservice, so thanks for this video.

[@meaningofthings]

Friends! I'm so glad that you all have enjoyed my video. Thank you all so much for watching. I've made an effort to respond to all of your comments below, but since this video has been picking up speed in the number of people watching and commenting, I will refrain from doing so unless there is a comment that specifically catches my eye / that needs addressing. You all are wonderful! I love being able to build a community here with you all, and I'm excited for you all to see what's coming next. That being said, what would you all like to see next? Something on ATLA again, or would you be interested in commentary on other works of cinema? Thanks again for your viewership and comments!

[@isaacmartinez2359]

I would love to see more videos on ATLA and other works maybe recent movies?

[@VivianStorm]

A comparison between ATLA and TLOK would be interesting, pointing out what works in the first that doesn't in the second. I'm convinced it was mostly due to problems with Nickelodeon and not knowing how much time they would get, but Aang's story is beutifully and carefully woven, an example of good storytelling, character and power development and buildup, while Korra's is a mess. I'd love to listen to you talking about RWBY or any other good series I may not yet know!

[@bluecat16475]

Wonderful video, it will definitely help improve my "You must watch this" argument. I have one small piece of advice for you though. When you cut to audio from the show, stop your background music, especially when the show already has background music (such as 1:33). It can be very confusing to hear to pieces of music going on at the same time. Look forward to what you have next :)

[@joselyngonzalez7128]

Weight Of Cinema Never realized how fully developed sokka was until I watched your video. I always thought he was just a comic relief character. THANKYOU so much for making me realize these hidden details and making this unforgettable show more meaningful to me.

[@thawizard5947]

Hey! Perhaps a video about Zuko and other characters? Would love it!!! thanks for the wonderful vid!!

[@brace110]

This show is masterfully done, to the music, to the life lessons, the inner conflicts of morals and growing up.

[@AvatarCritic]

Nice video, it's a shame that some people don't notice Sokka's character development. I've known people who said he didn't have any development and that he was "just the comic relief" character. I was like *facepalm* I also make videos about Avatar, if anyone is interested.

[@Ari33sa]

:o I always thought, that Sokka (zuko aside) had some of the best and most character development. Even compared to Katara, Toph and even Aang. I mean, he was not my favorite character, but how can you not see how much he matures.

[@Ari33sa]

:o I always thought, that Sokka (zuko aside) had some of the best and most character development. Even compared to Katara, Toph and even Aang. I mean, he was not my favorite character, but how can you not see how much he matures.

[@thetraveler7368]

People are trippin’ if they think Sokka has no character development. It frustrates me when people only see him as comic relief, he’s so much more than that.

[@AsherDrums_]

The Story Teller i would say team avatar development in terms of most to least goes zuko>aang>sokka>katara>toph. this is not to say who is better as a character cuz they’re all great it’s just how much they get developed in the series

[@thetraveler7368]

thrasher asher you’re reply seems like it’s completely unrelated to my comment.

[@OlleeEllieAndAlice]

Everytime I try to introduce people to this show, I can't help but mention the amazing character development, and how you grow to love each character. And quite often people will say 'isn't that a show for kids?' to which I reply it's a show for everybody. I've watched this show from beginning to end at least several times and I never get bored of it! I never stop grieving with Uncle Iroh when he does that memorial for his son. And I never stop cheering for Zuko through every mistake, and there's just countless other times you know exactly what the other characters are going through. ATLA is more relatable then most live action TV today. I'm really glad you made this video!

[@2govneta]

true. as i watched the show from beginning this year (after 3 years) for the 4th or 5th time, i still cried on uncle iroh's scene from "tales of ba sing se" and i still went crazy and couldn't believe, what zuko did in the end of season 2! i knew what would happen, but it still got me :D

[@dog8438]

I rewatched it for the first time since it ending recently and it's so much better when you're older because I actually completely understand all of messages in the show that went over my head as a kid.

[@Cat-nb5qs]

This is such a wonderful breakdown of sokkas character. Another thing I really appreciate is that Sokka is the comic relief character who's usually the butt of most of the slapstick humor especially... And in another show that's all he would be, but even just a few episodes into Season One it starts to become clear that Sokka is also really smart, and the strategist of the group. Hell, later in the show he ends up being the person who literally invents hot air balloons and submarines at the age of fifteen. And he doesn't lose the traits that make him funny through any of that.

[@TaylorTano98]

This is one of my favorite video essays on KZbin. And that means something, because almost everything I watch are video essays. Avatar is (undeniably) one of the greatest television shows of all time. It's the closest thing to a perfect show I've ever seen. Zuko's character is easily one of the most complex ever put to screen and I can say that I've watched Avatar over twice a dozen times. More than any other show. And it makes me so upset that it's often undervalued on the basis of being animated. I'm a blogger who writes about animation and I want to discuss and analyze Avatar more than any other show, but I'm not sure I can do it justice. I'm sure I will someday and if my writing is half as excellent as yours, I'll call that a success. Fantastic work! Looking forward to your future work! 500 Subscribers on your first video is amazing!

[@cesardanielramosnavarro1677]

I still remember getting this on my recommended feed 2 years ago. I still come back here time to time and cry on EVERY VIDEO. 4 videos wasn't enough, I love your work so much.

[@cesardanielramosnavarro1677]

Here we come again

[@animationlover2944]

You're right. Everyone keeps talking about zuko's character development. But not many people talk about sokka's development

[@bulmasan6331]

I think that's because Sokka doesn't have any bending abilities

[@YunJaeGDLuv]

Unfortunately, not everyone will know how amazing this story is because people misunderstand animation and don’t take it seriously but this is one of the best things I’ve seen in my life. The characters are so incredibly well written it still gives me shivers. I’m the type of person that just can’t read or watch something more than once, it’s sooooo so rare. But with avatar... I’ve maybe seen it 20 times already and I can still go in and watch it again. It has the best characters, the best dialogue, the best story, the best development. It’s truly mind blowing how these writers were able to come up with something so incredible. I’m running out of adjectives describing this magnificent story. Everyone needs to see this honestly. And if you’ve seen it already as a kid watch it again as an adult because it’s soooo different and much more heart breaking.

[@alphaalpacapack]

I think this is the only video essay I've seen on Avatar that genuinely articulates the brilliance of the show. Seriously fantastic stuff.

[@CJayin]

Character development is what brings you back to the show time after time. Great video

[@BadWolfRT]

I don't know what else to say but amazing video. Seriously, it was awesome! Avatar is my favourite show, I've watched it many times (it is a yearly ritual with my brothers), and yet you were still able to shed a new light on it. It made me want to cry out of love for this show and how truly great it is. Also, I really like your voice. Would you be interested in doing more videos on Avatar? I'd love to hear your perspective on other characters for example.

[@meaningofthings]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm super glad that you enjoyed the video. Yes, that has been something that I've thought about doing. I have considered perhaps doing an in-depth analysis on Zuko, as he is known to be a lot of people's favorite character and there is a lot of material to work with regarding his character. Otherwise, I plan to release content revolving around a number of feature films. Stay tuned!

[@BadWolfRT]

You're welcome! I would love an analysis on Zuko! He used to be my favourite character. Oddly, that's shifted towards Aang recently. Though I do think that an analysis of Zuko might be more interesting. Whatever you're doing though, I can't wait to find out! Good luck!

[@meaningofthings]

Thanks again!

[@Ganychan]

The fact that you chose Sokka, with his apparent shallowness and comic-relief aspect, to illustrate your point, makes me even happier.

[@naufaladen2401]

Am I the only one who think that this show is way too underrated :/

[@joelaporte7217]

Sokka's arc always gets overlooked. There are obvious reasons but it's one that needs to be mentioned every now and then.

[@yoloswaggins7121]

I think he has the best character arc besides Zuko of course. Funnily enough Aang probably has the weakest character arc despite being the main character

[@cryptomancer2927]

I am always looking for tips and techniques to develop my own writing. This video has been the single greatest help on creating fictional characters I have ever run across. Well done. Just well done! Plus you are so right about the series. It is one of the greatest animated series ever!

[@razbuten]

It amazes me how well-crafted Avatar: The Last Airbender is. There is just so much to love in this series, and the fact that pretty much every character has a satisfying arc throughout the show is a testament to the writing. It is hard to even give one character a good arc, let alone the entire main cast. Like, even the cabbage merchant has a decent character arc, which kind of blows my mind. I really enjoyed this video. Sokka is such an interesting character. His role as comic relief really makes some of the serious moments way punchier, because if Sokka is getting serious, then it is probably time to be serious (especially in the later seasons when he drops that machismo thing). The scene in the finale where he his holding Toph on the airship after they get surrounded and he says, "I don't think boomerang is coming back Toph. It looks like this is the end," makes me almost cry just thinking about. Anyway, solid stuff.

[@JoelWilliam]

I have watched this series over and over and over again and it never gets boring! Honestly one of the best shows I have ever seen!!!

[@AkairuNoAme]

Anything I could possibly say has already been written in the comments; so I can only add to the numerous praises. Very well done, well verbalized, edited etc. The characters have always been the show's strongest point, and that says much since there are almost no weak points - and if there are, at least one can admit that they are very easy to overlook and simply be happy for what Avatar is.

[@10yearslater_]

This is amazing, one of the best analysis I've seen so far, if not the best. I'm sad it's only 7.50 minutes long, I'd love to see more, maybe explaining more characters of this beautiful show, both TLA and Korra, since there are some good characters like Amon there too! Wish you the best with your channel, and I suscribed. Looking forward to more quality content!

[@dragoninthewest1]

I love the fact that clip of J. Jonah Jameson laughing was in there. Very appropriate as he is Aang's son.

[@bobber1165]

I actually cry at the end, i've never thought that a show will ever gave me any kind of tears.. well it did, and that's how i know that it was incredible. Neither Dragon Ball, Pokemon or Naruto who I consider masterpiece never gave me those kind of emotions.. avatar did.

[@DretFosria]

I've seen this series several times and you surprised me with your beautiful evaluation of Sokka's character. I never realize just how deliberate Sokka's early lines were to demonstrating his character. And in regards to him looking down on woman due to his own masculine insecurities? Brilliant eye.

[@andrewlynch8777]

This is NOT a kids show

[@iaxacs3801]

But it is a kids show, but unlike other kid shows the writers understood that kids could understand the development in character, complex problems, the weight of decisions, true challenges, and the bonds made through friendships. Honestly this show should categorized as a show for all ages though.

[@jelayace]

It's for all ages

[@ShaunRF]

Ok Nahid lol.

[@limeyfigdet7460]

It's not JUST a kids show. I enjoyed it very much as a kid, and it has appeal to children. However, now that I'm older, I love and appreciate it even more. It's so refreshing to have a clean, fun, and memorable show that can be enjoyed at any age. It has the depth of mature shows, but ATLA is bogged down with gross sexual content or any of that "mature" stuff.

[@ginge641]

@@limeyfigdet7460 *cough* Titans *cough*

[@vampirematt101]

your feelings and love for the show really translate very well into your video this video deserves much more recognition than its got

[@Hardcover1]

I have always loved Avatar, and have even rewatched it 3 times. But now I can truly appreciate why it is I keep falling in love with this show again and again. Thank you for this insight into one of the MANY amazing aspects of the show, you've got a new sub.

[@theREALAmmeLeep]

Have watched all 4 of your Avatar videos. Excellent, insightful essays.

[@zenko8073]

And he uses music from the legend of Korra, this proves how great that music really is

[@Panzer_John]

Avatar the last airbender was really well written and portrayed very well. from characters, to lore, to a vast amazing world it truly is special.

[@theoneenigma7735]

This video was done so bloody well. You did an excellent job making this video and outlining these points to the people. I'm a huge fan of the show myself and I don't care what people say about me loving this show even at the age of 18. It's a work of art and I can't stress how badly people need to watch this video to realize this. I'm guilty of not paying attention to Sokka to that extent as well so you did very well in that. Please please please do one on Iroh. He's definitely one of the most notable ones but seeing one for Uncle Iroh would be perfect.

[@totallyjerd1751]

Sokka and Zuko were my favourite characters in the show. Zuni had a gradual change in character that was awesome, but Sokka had a really subtle change that was never directly addressed. This change occurred after he met, and lost princess Yuaeh (probably misspell her name xD).

[@LazerzZ]

I've never seen a video worded so well, I completely agree with everything you said, exactly as you said it

[@Milan-tp4wc]

LazerzZ Holy shit you watch Avatar.

[@Jamie-wh3kd]

wow your analysis on sokka legit made me cry

[@meaningofthings]

Jam Thats amazing!! Have you seen my other videos on Avatar: The Last Airbender? You can do so here: kzbin.info/aero/PLkPyXCYVHqiITkzZ2p8_Szu1dsXBAZoVc

[@Jamie-wh3kd]

yes baby im watching them through right now, just started the third one on development through relationship 😭👌

[@benjaminfirth2890]

This is a great video. I saw the length and frankly thought "There's no way this guy can give justice to ATLA in under eight minutes." I was completely wrong. I can't wait to see what other videos you'll make!

[@ashstolley]

I have often said that I don't watch avatar because it has amazing plot, rather I watch it for its truly amazing characters. And it is so good to hear some else not only agree with me but gave the same thought on their own.

[@gavinzhou3168]

LOK soundtrack get me every time :'(

[@dylanpastore]

Can we take a minute to appreciate the beautiful assortment of scenes starting at 6:49.

[@MiracleWinchester]

I just finished Sozin's Comet and now you've brought me more tears.

[@thedanceoftuila6999]

I love that you've chosen Sokka, it's not everyday people talk about the amazing character he is. I myself don't spend as much time exploring his subtleties as other characters, even though I love him too. THANK YOU.

[@shineinouzen7412]

That was great!!! Id love to see this for other Avatar characters.

[@meaningofthings]

Perhaps you will!

[@xxp1n0ypr1d3xx]

wow, im a huge fan of ATLA and this narrative of the character development was amazingly put together. Props to you and your hard work!

[@GreatWonderMoose]

0:56 That shot of Katara gets me every time. Maybe the best episode in the series outside of the finale.

[@hannahb9885]

I love this series. Every once in a while I go back and rewatch every episode and pick up things I overlooked or just didn't even think about before. Avatar will never get old for me ♥

[@paraplegiccowboy4950]

Aaaaaaand subscribed.

[@Jcampoverde27]

I totally thought this video would be about Zuko or Katara but wow Sokka's development is so subtle that it just seemed natural and flawless within the story...

[@conradkai9705]

Who put these tears on my pillow?!?!

[@janes2130]

Thank you so much for eloquently describing the greatness in the writing of this show. The Sokka example was so well described, and the visual montage moved me. I really need to rewatch this series ;w;

[@HienNguyenHMN]

Can you analyse the other main characters in the same way?

[@amurita...]

Seconded! Would love to see your analysis on other characters as well.

[@parepidemosproductions4741]

Congrats on your first video! My brother sent this to me and I had to take notes. Great analysis!

[@bijoubaybee]

This video was amazing and enough for me to subscribe. It's great to see Sokka getting love; Aang and Zuko are rightly praised but Sokka's story is also one worth retelling. I hope to see more videos from you about Avatar specifically. I feel like you have a lot of good analysis to share.

[@itsmay97]

This show was my childhood. Rewatching this show as an "adult" has made me realize how much depth Avatar really had. Forever will remain with me. Thanks for your great review

[@zray3]

I started watching this show because of nostalgia, finished because of love

[@marvelousmrsnunya]

I did not realize how wonderful and well developed Sokka's character was, as well as all the characters (even small supportive characters), until I watched the show a second time a couple of years after. I'm about to watch it all again for the 3rd time and I already know, I'll find new gems in this extraordinary show. ATLA withdrawal no. 3, here we go!

[@amberbeam4248]

Why am I smiling? .... Why am I crying?

[@curtiswfranks]

Please talk more about this show. I could listen to this sort of analysis forever.

[@HighlandViolinist]

This is awesome! I look forward to future videos!

[@meaningofthings]

Thank you very much!

[@scally9341]

I actually got goosebumps in the end jeez man. this show means a lot to me and it makes me so happy that there are more people that feel the same

[@reflectionist]

Dude... my wife got me the DVD set for Valentine's Day, and I literally laughed like J. Jonah Jamieson. But I just finished it, all three books. Ho. Ly. Fuck. This was such a beautiful story. I seriously thought nothing could top the ending to The Dark Knight Rises... I freaking bawled for the last few episodes.

[@dwightChase]

These Characters.... literally my favorite show of all time and whenever I hear about Aang, Sokka and Katara it's like literally hearing about old great friends of mine that I always want to hear more about... Thank you for this

[@logananglin8476]

Thank you for this. I'm really glad you chose to show Sokka's development and not the expected Zuko's, since it is considered to be the best of any show's. Would love to see a video on Korra. I don't think TLoK's greatest strength is it's character development, but in that it is stronger in other ways, which is off-putting to a lot of A:TLA fans, making it even better than it's predecessor. Would love to hear your thoughts.

[@rei_cirith]

This show was just amazing. The relationship between Iroh and Zuko alone is worth watching a million times. I was introduced to the show in my early 20's, and have watched the entire series twice since. In the entire show, there was nothing out of place about any of the character's personal journeys... every mistake, every victory meant something. It's really too bad that Legend of Korra didn't really live up to that, but it was a pretty high bar to set. I don't plan on having kids, but if I ever do, you better believe I will be watching this with them. It's a story that has something for everyone of every age.

[@meaningofthings]

Hi all! Thank you so much for watching my video on Avatar: The Last Airbender. My lastest video, an interpretive analysis on Alejandro G. Iñárritu's The Revenant, can be viewed via this link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZ6phJSIbteIjq8 (or my channel page). Please note: if you haven't viewed The Revenant, please refrain from my video if you care about spoilers. Be sure to wait through to the end of the video for some closing remarks directly addressed to you. There’s a little information there regarding the future of this channel, as well as a treat for you Avatar: The Last Airbender fans.

[@cloggedaorta]

This was perfect. I believe part of the appeal in Sokka is also that he is the only one normal in a team of heroes with superpowers. That often makes him go overlooked but, the way I see it, it makes him even more interesting. I always tear up when I watch the first chapters of Korra and remember that Sokka and Aang are no more...

[@BigBadWolframio]

I wish you made one video like this one for each character :)

[@oskar2253]

I am honestly so thankful you made this video, none of my friends really get's how deep rooted this show is and you just showed it up so perfectly i had to cry a bit

[@albanvidal7502]

THANK. YOU.

[@meaningofthings]

YOU'RE WELCOME.

[@bebegirI]

I want to cry, seriously; avatar was such a big part of my childhood and talking about it so preciously is so touching. Plus the bgm!!!

[@DrawQuick2014]

A character analysis that isnt about zuko?! wow

[@meaningofthings]

Maybe the next one? (Stay tuned)

[@lisyoubeengone]

I just rewatched this series and I fell in love with it again, its such an amazing and well-written show. Of course I have minor complaints about it but overall its so great and underrated

[@thegeekclub8810]

Great video! Didn't know you could get so much content out of those few lines. I love it. :) I'd recommend you work a bit on your sound quality. I hear the software Audacity is good for that, and it's totally free.

[@meaningofthings]

Thank you for the feedback and the recommendation!

[@thegeekclub8810]

Weight Of Cinema No problem-o. Can't wait to see what you do in that future!

[@Alex-pj9jc]

i honestly loved sokka and felt like he never really got the amount of credit he deserves. as a non bender he fought against benders, founght armies, and even lead one on his invasion and even succeeded.

[@KamikazeChinaman]

Avatar: The Last Airbender is a masterpiece, and so is Sokka.

[@hparkes93]

I'm so unused to people taking the effort to understand Sokka that this literally drew me to tears. Very well done.

[@meaningofthings]

Pssst! Follow my twitter account to get a sneak peek regarding my next video: twitter.com/weightofcinema. (This video will be out very soon!)

[@robotux7316]

Weight Of Cinema. Thank you

[@Winterseeker]

Weight Of Cinema Thank you so much for your eloquent thoughts and analysis. It was perfect (and I agree with your intro, to my own experience, 100%).

[@lillyofthenorth8798]

I was that person who wrote the show off. I was a "grown up" in high school (LOL past me) when it came out and would tease my younger sisters for watching it. Then one day, I sat and watched an episode from season 3 and not only was it funny, but I became intrigued in characters I didn't know ANYTHING about in a 25 minute span. That's heartfelt and concise writing. I try to tell some older folks that this is a great show to expose to their children or grandchildren and one to watch with them, by explaining the themes that appear, the non-pandering writing, and, simply-put, the heart of the show.

[@Teel217]

Great video.

[@meaningofthings]

Thank you so much!

[@Teel217]

No problem. :)

[@graphicmeebee4858]

Oh please oh please, make more of these. I love your way of talking about my childhood favorite show :)) Really awesomely done analysis of Sokka, my mum never understood how I always seemed to care about the "comedic relief"