What is Azula’s Motivation?

[@lector-dogmatixsicarii1537]

_"The fallen leaves tell a story..."_ While the less mindful cry _"psychopath!"_ and let slip the dogs of war without further ponderance, this fall seemed familiar. A series of unfortunate events in which you could see the impending disaster with a world full of listeners and not one that hears. She had - A mother who abandoned her children to live another life when faced with committing regicide to save them; this while previously being rather deft and neglectful with Azula [e.g. "what is wrong with that child"] and spending that time with the other. A narcissist father filling the gap playing her as a tool feeding into negative aspects. A brother who got all the attention of her mother and the negative attention of father; the same brother that kept falling short, leading her to be her own keeper and not fail as such. Friends that allowed her to be alpha as her ego needed, but were doormats looking for their exit. Retinue at every beck and call [yes men] and father selecting their movements. Her Uncle which betrays their blood at war, all the while mentors her brother (i.e. the one failing everyone) to essentially take her place while she has nothing, but wants something while being unable to express it in terms people will hear. Then you come to the subject herself with specific military and statecraft proclivities among other sly things which is stuck buried in work to be the best and honor the house from which she comes, tainted by the remaining filial role model. It turns to a self fueling problem of repressed shut in true feelings with shows of position defending aggression through superiority [to be worthy, loved as such, and clearly so above all]. It's not good when everything collapses around such a person. You can see it when she loses the last bit she has in "The Last Agni Kai", and to the failure, no less. Even in the follow up crazy bits, she is just trying to make her brother worthy by being the monster she always perceived herself as so he will not fail. And so, in the end, the most driven and greatest among them became relegated to be remembered, if at all, as the worst by the hand of those that let it happen, no less. Fate at its most cruel - a special cruelty Even a single outside figure sharing in interests willing to be more than just another doormat would have made a world of difference. Just a simple outlet and auxiliary family/mentor is the difference between ends - the forlorn, and the good comrade. Just a small quote for the whole sad situation as it unfolded. If you know, you know - "Watch your brother, for his sin of heresy is thy sin of tolerance." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Leaving this storyline butchered at the end was a mistake. So much lost and missed out on. The threads of fate are incomplete. A festering wound. They could pick it back up with some future travel and a darker offshoot with something like "The Book of Azula" bringing back descendants of the old villains. Thematically it would be a bit '"Tanc a Lelek" hot grease covered, flash burns, and smoke inhalation worn out Sevastopol crew fending off a strike fleet bathed in heavy automatic fire' in feel. A heavier subject matter one-off with matters of shadow soul and black flame during times where elemental bending is staring down the future in technology advancement.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

First off, I appreciate you taking the time out of your day to reply with your thoughts. This really means a lot! Those are some powerful words...dang, I hundred percent agree with you there. A lot of people just look at her at surface level and comment that's "she's too intense" or "crazy." There is a lot more you can learn from such a character. Throughout the whole story she's screaming out for help, but no one hears. Either because they don't care or they could hear. They're blinded by their own problems, to really see Azula for what she is. A 14-year-old girl who had to grow up to fast because of her father's ambitions. With no guiding hand to help her, she suffers in silence. You could argue she had Lo and Li, but even she doesn't open up to them. All of her trauma she keeps locked away in her mind. Away for no one to see. She must stay in control for if she doesn't she'll be looked upon as a failure...like Zuko. She must be the prodigy, for her family and her nation. That's an interesting point that I didn't pick up on. I thought she lost herself completely in the mirror scene earlier, but that does make a lot more sense. Even in the Search, Azula can't find peace within herself. She's completely lost and doesn't know how to solve her problems. Not even her brother knows how to comfort her at this point. All she need was one person to see her suffering, but no one dared. Even if they kept the Azula story open end after the events of the comic The Search. I would be fine with that. But that's not what we got at all, which makes me really frustrated. In Smoke and Shadow, the writes undo her WHOLE STORY, just so they can make her a surprise villain. I would totally read "The Book of Azula" or do watch a special "Azula Alone" episode. Dealing with her past trauma to become a person that can find peace within herself. Someone NEEDS to write this Azula story it sounds epic! Thank you again for sharing your thoughts! =)

[@CuriouslyCute]

Are you an INFP?

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

No, I'm an INTJ, but all INFPs are pretty cool in my opinion...haha!

[@lector-dogmatixsicarii1537]

-INFJ(T)-

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

@@lector-dogmatixsicarii1537 I have a lot of respect for you INFJ individuals! You guys are awesome =)

[@patydeleon3288]

Although Ozai is a terrible father and he clearly doesn't care about Zuko or Azula I think he didn't even realize about how damaged Azula was and when he left her in the fire nation in the end he was so focused on himself that he could not see that his daughter was falling apart, which is pretty sad, Ozai just saw his kids like tools. Ironically, Zuko was focused on getting his father's love and never got it, Azula wanted her mother's love (and had it but never knew it).

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

You are one hundred percent right. I feel like it makes Azula, Zuko, and even Ursa's stories sadder in a way. Both Zuko and Azula never got a true family because Ozai was to control of everything and everyone. This does bring up a new question thought...Who was taking care of Azula and Zuko after their mother left? Maybe Lo and Li?

[@Gemnist98]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed Definitely Iroh.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

@@Gemnist98 Maybe he helped support Zuko, and Lo and Li helped care for Azula.

[@scp173...]

I think she knew about the possibility of the "avatar" being alive She needed a scapegoat so she told everyone that zuko killed the avatar And she just wants to go home and relax 😊

[@yorhaunit21o32]

She doesn’t have a tragic backstory she WAS living a tragic story

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Very True...When I rewatch the series sometimes I can't even finish it because I don't want to see Azula crying in chains. It's just too much =(

[@yorhaunit21o32]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed SAME she got no justice

[@Hoardling]

Remember kids! Azula was 14 at the start of the show..just a child with the pressure of an unloving father she would never get any real love from.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I feel like a lot of people forget about this. Her being so young is what makes her story even more tragic.

[@Hoardling]

I’ve thought about this a couple times as well: while some of us grew up watching the show, it never really occurred to us how wrong some of it was. While we’re all cheering for Team Avatar to win, we forgot that they were just children ending a war that has lasted since their great-grandparents. We never really thought about how losing people would affect them. We were just happy Team Avatar won the war. Some of the things just blows my mine rewatching as an adult.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Watching this as a kid, I was just so infatuated by the bending and never really understand the war aspect of the show. Aang losing the Air Nation and Zuko's whole redemption arc hit a lot differently when rewatching as an adult. This show is such a masterpiece and I know that I'll enjoy it for the rest of my life!

[@Hoardling]

Yes! I’m so glad someone else understands!

[@NeoXist]

Great video! I agree with her motivation being validation, it's essentially confirmed in her new solo comic "Azula in the Spirit Temple". That comic also corrects her weird arc in The Search and Smoke and Shadows while further confirming she was never evil and only ever misguided, shaped as a weapon by her father and only wanting love from her mother but also seeking a healthy family environment. I truly hope that the comics will focus on Azula's path to healing and making amends with her mother, brother, uncle and friends, so that she can be truly happy again!

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I thought about it some more and I kind of like Smoke and Shadow, now. Azula redemption is not going to be an easy one. She's going to stumble back to her old ways a handful of times. But I feel she'll try her best to move on from her traumas.

[@MinecraftIsLoveMinecraftIsLife]

you're so right. when her dad abandons her to go burn the earth kingdom, that's when azula really breaks and becomes paranoid of more betrayals. azula wanting validation mainly rather than control and power just makes her story even more tragic. to the fire nation, the military and the royal palace, she is a master firebender with the ability to generate lightning, a genius strategist and an expert fighter. but no one sees her as a 14 year old kid who should just focus on being a kid. what ozai did to her mentally is made even worse by the fact that he made her cold and cruel, which pushes people away from her so then they can't help her. ty lee is too submissive to do anything and mai just goes along with the flow of things. azula's servants are petrified of her. her soldiers in book 2 ep 1 are terrified of her as well. they aren't going to step up and help her, so in the end ozai gets to keep his human weapon. another thing is that ozai never seemed to have any plan for azula's eventual collapse. he must have realized that mentally azula was going to lose it some day or the next, since is so in tune with her mental state in order to manipulate her. she is his greatest asset (since she was able to do what iroh in his prime could not) yet he has shown no indication of any means to help her get back to her prime when she eventually collapses. this means ozai sees her as disposable. on the day of black sun, ozai shelters in his bunker and leaves azula as the main line of defence against invaders. he's fully willing to risk her life. and also with him leaving her in the fire nation while he goes alone to burn the earth kingdom? he must have known that leaving her behind would mentally wreck her. he only gives her the title of firelord as it is meaningless now and uses it to placate her and get her to shut up. he doesn't care about what will happen to her when he leaves. it's heartbreaking that one of the two main people that azula craves validation from sees her as a disposable human weapon.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I'm going, to be honest, as a kid I never thought that Ozai was that great of a villain. Azula always felt like a better antagonist. After watching this show TOO MANY times, I've learned that Ozai is a truly evil person. He's a terrible father for both Zuko and Azula. And a terrible husband to Ursa. He's a controlling, manipulating man, who just wants everyone to bend to his will. As much as the show likes to paint Zuko as the victim in the family. The honest truth is Azula probably had it worse. Like you said Azula was trained to be a human weapon. That was her only use to him. Until the comet, something even more powerful than Azula comes along, and he throws her to the side like she's nothing. Causing her to have a full-on mental breakdown because all that praise that her father gave her was a lie. Which is truly tragic.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

I believe that anyone deserves a chance at becoming better. This is one ATLA themes. And Azula does show deeper side. The most heartbreaking scene is when Ursa as Noriko apologizes in comic book the search to Azula for not loving her enough. You can see Azula in tears. And also when Zuko tells Azula he will love her no matter what as a sister, you can see it made deep impact on her. It in my opinion has sawn seeds of possible redemption. Creators did say in an interview that Azula has a softer side buried very deep. I respect people who want her to remain a tragic character without redemption. But you cannot help but feel sorry for her at the end, when she was defeated. I personally believe her becoming a better person will be better. There are fanfictions which show this. Zuko wants to help Azula, but Azula will not change overnight. It is like expecting Zuko to abandon his honor and join team avatar immideately after seeing Songs burn scars in Cave of Two Lovers. Zuko redemption arc was long and with obstacles, Azulas will be also. Azula does care for Zuko in her own way. And also loves Zuko. There is more to Azula than some twisted villain.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

Also Zuko in spite of mothers and Irohs influences did terrible things. When he showed up at Western Air Temple, team avatars faces say all. Zuko betrayed his uncle and everyone in crossroads of Destiny. He played a role in Aang Injury. In addition sending a deadly assassin after team avatar. Uncle Iroh was called a war criminal by earthbenders in Season 1, and laid siege to Ba Sing Se for 600 days. Both Zuko and Iroh atoned for what they done. While it will be more difficult for Azula, with time and as she goes through different experience she might also be able to atone. It is a shame her story was left up in the air few years after ATLA with decades of unanswered questions about Azula by Korras time.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I truly love the development of Azula's character in The Search. It's a shame that they went and took that away in Smoke and Shadow. I agree with you, I think that Azula should have gotten a redemption arc. Even from Book 2 to Book 3 there is a drastic change in her character. She is no longer just a commander, she's a lot kinder. There are a lot of emotional moments in this show, but Azula's defeat is always the hardest thing for me to watch. Sometimes, I can't finish rewatching the show because of it. That's really cool that people have made fanfiction about Zuko helping Azula because I feel like it would help both their characters grow into better people. I know there are some new movies coming out for Avatar The Last Airbender...maybe one of them will focus on Zuko and Azula? I feel like there is a lot more to the relationship than just a sibling rivalry. Both need each other to help navigate through life.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed I agree with you. Though I take a different tone when it comes to Smoke and Shadow. I would not say it was erased completely. Azula does seem to care about her half sister Kiyi. When Kiyi was giving a piece of her mind to one of Kemurikage, the Kemurikage wanted to harm Kiyi, yet another Kemurikage stepped in and said not to bother. Commenting that fire is in her blood. Later that masked Kemurikage turned out to be Azula. It shows Azula does care for Kiyi. Yes I agree at first glance it looks like her arc was erased, but looking deeper it makes sense. I was watching a video the other day from great guy. Tim from Hello Future Me. Not sure if you heard of him. Should check it out. Anyways Tim made a video about redemption arcs for villains. He did say one of the best ways to do redemption is to make villain go through difficult winding road to redemption. I think in Smoke and Shadow you see Azula in some ways better. When at the end both Zuko and Azula fought, and when Azula had Zuko pinned down. Azula had a chance to kill Zuko, and yet she did not. Also it seems Azula has made a deep bond with her new group. So you can say she is getting there though not quite there yet. Azula carries a lot of emotional baggage. You have to understand she will not be able to get rid of it right away. Aaron Ehasz lead writer on Avatar did say few years back that Azulas redemption will be longer and more complicated that Zuko. This is how I view smoke and shadow. Please remember that Smoke and Shadow takes place only around 2 years after shows end. And to Korras time there are still 70 years. I often love to say who knows what will happen in this time. There are nevertheless encouraging news. The recently released Avatar cookbook which was compiled in universe sometime after the latest comics do show Azula on speaking terms with Mai, implying that Azula did get better at some point. My guess is that the book was put together in universe about 15-25 years. In the book Katara writes that whole new generation of water tribe kids grew up experiencing luxury foods which were rare during her growing up during war. Check it out. Also new RPG game does have small entry on Azula saying that Azula may care for her brother's welfare. Though the story in the game does not extend that far beyond comics. The frustrating thing is there are some many loose end in Legend of Korra. Not just with Azula. But with Kiyi, Suki, Ty Lee, Mai. It is simply unbelievable that after all these years we still do not know whether Sokka was married and had kids. Who did Zuko Marry? Who did Toph marry? Also side characters such as Haru are never mentioned. So many characters fates are not known by Korras time. Creators need to tie their stories. Hopefully new avatar studios movies, shows, content will answer these questions. Sorry for the long write, but this my view.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed yes Zuko movie is planned to come out in 2025.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

Along with Kyoshi in 2024 and Legend of Korra movie in 2026. Given dissapointments over the years, I am cautiously optimistic.

[@patydeleon3288]

In the comics we can actually see colorful flames made by Zuko while he protected his mother, his half sister and her father

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I completely forget about that. Thank you for reminding me!

[@paccinocappaccino]

This is why I relate to azula so much. She was always my favourite character along with katara. While zuko was betrayed by his dad he still had his uncle by his side. Azula was betrayed from birth by BOTH her mother and father. Her father just seeing her as a vessel for war and her mother (in her eyes) viewing her as a monster (for me it relates to my dad seeing me as a disappointment and my mother telling me to repent due to my transness and queerness plus other abuse involved with them).

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I'm very sorry, that must be very hard for you. I hope that you are or have been able to break away from the environment. To live your life the way you want to live it and embrace who you truly are! Thank for sharing your story =)

[@paccinocappaccino]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed yes I've been able to leave said environment and have began flourishing (as of October last year).

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I'm very glad to hear that! Keep living your best life!

[@CuriouslyCute]

Her motivation was that she wanted to feel loved and lovable. 9:39 This is all the bent up grief from when she was a child. Imagine her as a little girl again here.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Very good point, I can totally see that as her motivation as well!

[@arafhamid1785]

I also feel bad for Ozai because Azulon treated Ozai just like Ozai treated Zuko. Like showing favouritism towards Iroh. The only difference is that Ozai didn’t have an uncle Iroh. I know Azulon is a better father than Ozai but he still f*cked ozai up and made Ozai to everything to get his father’s love and turning evil in the process

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I see what your says and I agree! I do think the whole Fire Nation family is really broken. It really sad to see such a power family emotionally broken. But it's nice that Zuko and Iroh changed the narrative for the future generations!

[@arafhamid1785]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed I feel like Ozai and his family are ones who are most broken because other fire lords weren’t victim of favouritism and were not made to believe that the war was good(except azulon)

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I can see what you're getting at, that's a very interesting take! Thank you for sharing =)

[@StareachValcin]

Great Azula analysis with character insights that make sense and were overlooked.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Thanks! I had a lot of fun piecing together Azula's character! Honestly, I feel like there is still more to explore with her character...haha! She's just so complex.

[@StareachValcin]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed agreed. If anything, Azula was a better villain than Ozai.

[@bdariamihaela]

I think Azula wanted Zuko to join her so as their father won't start to see her as weak. All of their childhood Zuko's efforts weren't validated, it didn't matter that he was a good firebender the only thing that mattered wast that Azula was better than him, Azula deffinetly knew that and she also knew that her image in her father's eyes will go down if she doesn't have anyone to compate her with. Ozai's standards were crazy high and Azula couldn't keep up with them for ever no matter how hard she tries, it would take just one mistake, one dissapointment and she would lose Ozai's approval wich she dessperatly needs, it was everything for her, the only thing that matter in all her life. I know it's a bit messy but I hope you understand my point

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

It's the classic story of a prodigy falling from grace... it's a really dare shame. It's sad but, it still happens in our society as well. Some parents put way too much pressure on their young kids. Telling them to repress their emotions and just work hard. Only giving their child love and praise when they achieve something. Forcing the child to think that to win my parent's love I have to be perfect. This is unattainable for anyone to achieve. These children become angry and unheard putting too much pressure on themselves and pushing friends away. If this child fails at any point all the love and support from their parents is gone just like that. The child is alone thinking it is all their fault that they didn't succeed. This is a very toxic parent and child relationship, but it's way too common. It is nice to see that Zuko got out of this environment. He had love from both Iroh and his mother. However, Azula has no one to help her. She's all alone thinking that her failure is all on her. When in reality it is more a failure of her upbringing. I'm grateful for the show that touched upon such a serious topic. I just hope that someday we'll see Azula pick herself up and move on from her troubled childhood.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Hello everyone! This is a question that's plagued my mind for a LONG TIME! I still feel like there are more answers to what her motivation is. Please let me know if you have any other ideas! Always love chatting with you guys! Hope you have a lovely day and till next time =)

[@darklightimages]

Before I answer and this is important. Azula is the little sister. She is 14 years old when all of this is happening. Remember that she is 14 years old she is only 2 years older then Aang and about the same age as Katara. Now for my answer. Azula wants her brother to be there for her. Fight for her. Out of everyone in the whole world her BIG brother should understand her brokenness her need for love. Big brothers are normally protective of thier little sisters. Zuko wasnt strong enough to protect Azula from the likes of their father so Azula got strong to protect herself. But she is still 14 years old and wants big brother Zuzu to help her. Example, the beach episode. Azula goes out of her way to find Zuko at the family beach home after he storms off and then bring him back. Azula cared enough about her brother to be there for him during his time of emotional need. Thats so odd. Hell had Mai showed up no one would have bat an eye but Azula showing this level of emotional empathy and getting nothing out of it except being there for her brother is odd. So yeah Azula flip flops because she wants help from the one family that she thinks gives a damn about her all while the trauma of dad tells her emotions are a weakness and conquest is all that matters

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

You're right she is 14 years old. I feel like a lot of people forget about that. That's a very interesting answer! Zuko is a very big part of it! That's a great example. Even during the bonfire, she was listening to what he had to say. When he says "I'm angrier than ever and I don't know why," Azula asks in a calm voice if she was the one that he was angry at. Now that I'm thinking about it...What if it is the other way around. What if all those years of solitude, made Azula grow up faster. All that time training was to protect herself but to make Zuko stronger as well. Maybe Azula wants to be able to protect Zuko? Kind of like Katara is with Sokka. I don't know. I always like to look at theory from all possible angles...haha! Azula does care for her brother, and if she was given a redemption arc, Zuko would be the one family member to help her onto the right path. Thank for sharing your thoughts =)

[@All-ze9cl]

Azula has empathy. People label her as a coldhearted psychopath, and to an extent she is. But when you look at the nature vs nurture theory you realize that it isn't all nature. She clearly was a little demented even from the start, but her actions were fueld by Ozais influence on her and that makes her really interesting, and even more tragic. She could of turned out like Zuko. If Ozai didn't instill his horrible ideals in her so young she could have turned out better. We see that she cares about Zuko even if she doesn't want to admit to it. She even shows weakness and humanity towards Ty Lee when she makes her cry. It's sad seeing someone who has the capability to be better be so far gone. Her empathy was so repressed from her environment and it never let that side of her thrive. It's honestly sad.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I do feel like she has a chance to be redeemed in the future, there is a new Azula-forced comic coming out soon. Which could explore her conflicting feelings. She is more than just the cold-hearted prodigy that everyone sees. There are more layers to her. Things that even she doesn't want to confront. Azula is honestly one of my favorite characters of all time, because of her complexities. I just wish people would stop typecasting her as just a "villain," and start listening to her side of there story.

[@All-ze9cl]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed I agree! Personally i want her to stay a villain at least in the canon universe, i just feel like it holds more weight for her to not get better, but it would be really interesting if she did

[@tabby842]

I hate that people call her a psychopath. If she was she wouldn't care at all about what people think of her. If anything she's a narcissist with sociopathic tendencies. Some professionals I've seen say sociopaths are incentivized to learn psychopathic tendencies, but they lack the robotic cold-blooded antisocial trait that true psychopaths have. Azula's main hubris is that she tries to pretend she doesn't care what people think, when she's the opposite. Disorder of self-esteem, textbook narcissism. So much so she gets hallucinations about her mom who may still live rent free in her head.

[@fermata3158]

You are a hidden gem of content! Ima binge your channel cause I love ATLA

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I'm really glad you enjoy the channel! It's still my favorite show...haha! Who's your favorite character (I know that's a tough question) Also, let me know if you have any unanswered Avatar questions...I would love to try and answer them!

[@antoniomariamacri7500]

"She's the best Fire Bender we see", ever heard of a guy called Iroh?

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Understandable, both can be masters of their craft.

[@SupremeUV2122]

When your father loves u 10x more than ur brother but 10x0=0

[@SupremeUV2122]

“He said I was ‘lucky to be born’, my sister was ‘born lucky’”~ zuko Nah switch that around 😂. Zuko is the one born WAYYY luckier. Not to mention Zuko is more favoured overall and yes, love beats fear. Mai even lampshades that with the ‘I love Zuko more than I fear you’

[@tylersmith9465]

Nice work

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Thanks so much =)

[@abrahamedelstein4806]

4:06 Well, to be fair, you could always read that part from her. I mean, in the Chase when she introduces herself to Aang, Aang must be thinking, "Am I so sleep deprived I'm imagining Sokka's words coming out of his girl's mouth?" Anyway, pretty good analysis, though if I have to nitpick, you could have gone and dunked on Smoke and Shadows a bit more.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

That is true, I forgot about that scene. There is also the other scene within Appa's Lost Days, where she sarcastically says to Suzi " Who are you the Avatar's Fan Girls" She's always had a sarcastic sense of humor...haha. I'm sorry about that. Smoke and Shadows has a lot of problems that solely do not focus on just Azula's story, and I didn't want to go off on a tangent. I'll talk more about it in future character videos. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I really appreciate it =)

[@abrahamedelstein4806]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed There were a few other scenes in Book 2 that had be sensibly chuckling and it was her wit that made her so endearing, not her being a flame-throwing Terminatrix in all but name and in hindsight, I think it would have been much cooler if Azula was the non-bending wise-cracking tactician of her team and Mai given the qualities of an unstoppable killing-machine, but that's just me, since I subscribe to the thematic idea that the Fire and Water siblings are mirrors of one-another and that Sokka and Katara would have been like Azula and Zuko if raised by Ozai and vice versa.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

@@abrahamedelstein4806 That really would be interesting to see Azula as a non-bender! I always loved the battle in "The Day of Black Sun" when she just toys with Team Avatar. Mai as an unstoppable killing machine would be so cool as well! You're right, there are a lot of similarities between the two pairs of siblings. I'm going to have to look at that more closely on my next rewatch...haha!

[@abrahamedelstein4806]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed In hindsight I think it would have worked better thematically, have her and Zuko's rivalry for their Father's affection be less about pure Fire Bending, and Ozai perhaps valuing ruthlessness, strength of leadership and will more than who can cast the biggest flame. Another thing that I've never really heard pointed out, is that Sokka and Azula have mirroring scenes of their Fathers leaving them behind to take care of the homeland. And Katara and Zuko have their reunion scenes with their father back to back in episode 1 of book 3. Of course there are the more obvious ones such as both pairs having grown up without a mother, etc.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

My question is, would Ozai be okay with having a non-bender as a son or daughter? Sokko and Azula have a lot of similarities. They search for the Father's approval. Both are brilliant strategists and have good leadership skills. Katara and Zuko always felt like their stories mirrored one another.

[@mellemadswoestenburg1296]

!!!!BIG SPOILERS FOR AZULA IN THE SPIRIT TEMPLE!!!! I got the comic the day it came out and i immediately thought of you and this video. You talked about how Smoke And Shadow did her really dirty and completely ignored Azula's core motivation and character. Validation, love and wanting to be seen as powerful. You mentioned that the future comics probably won't salvage that. But it did! The entire comic is about Azula's secret wish for validation and she has so many moments where she clearly knows what she truly wants. I think her story hasn't been ruined and i'm so happy! Could you maybe do a follow up video discussing the comic? It fits right in with everything you discussed in this video.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Nice to see you! How's life been? I read the comic as well, I mean I had to Azula is one of my favorite characters of all time...haha! I agree I like the way they handle her character as well. Funny enough I'll have a video talking about Azula in the spirit temple on Thursday so look out for that! Take care, my friend =)

[@tylersmith9465]

A little part of her wanting her brother back so she can make up for the pain she caused him in the past⬆️🧑

[@trapadvisor]

This is the second video of yours I’ve seen and I’m now a fan. You’re welcome lol

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I'm glad you enjoy the content and thank you for your support! Let me know if you have any Avatar: The Last Airbender episodes or questions you would like me to chat about =)

[@trapadvisor]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed okay this might be too much but I think we need more videos about how fan perception of Katara is more negative than the way she really is in the show. Other characters complain and go on about their tragic past but don’t get looked at negativity, but Katara stands out in the fandom in a not so good way and the only major difference, I can think of, between her and the others is she’s one of the most feminine characters. which makes me feel most of her criticisms are somewhat if not totally based in sexism. I might just make the video myself lol I’ve thought about it a lot

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I didn't know that the fandom looked at Katara so negatively? Don't get me wrong, I was indifferent to her at first, but after "The Waterbending Master" I respected her so much. In my eyes, she is a feminine iconic. Her journey only gets better from there. Beating both a Bloodbender and Azula. She truly is a master in her craft. That kind of makes me sad that people criticize her so much. At some point, I was going to make a video about how the show breaks away from stereotypical "feminine" and "masculine" character traits. However, it was going to be more of a broader look into the show as a whole. It sounds like you are very passionate about this topic and I would love to see you make your own video about it!

[@trapadvisor]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed yeah I’d love to make Lindsey Ellis type content. Look at media through a political, social, and emotional lens. If I do you’ll be the first to get the link.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

That's awesome!

[@thunderbirdizations]

Azula’s love triangle: 1. Earned love (Father) 2. Unconditional love (Mother, Zuko, NOT Iroh, NOT her 2 best friends) 3. Forced love (her 2 best friends)

[@thunderbirdizations]

Head canon: she brought Zuko back for a shot at unconditional love, because no sane human can love her unconditionally after the sh*tty human she’s been. E.g. Her mother loved Zuko unconditionally after he hit innocent baby ducks with bread.

[@thunderbirdizations]

She probably can’t even love herself unconditionally unless we see a redemption arc (though most people probably have trouble loving themselves unconditionally, so it’s not a special situation to be in; but it’s relatable)

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I would agree with your Azula's love triangle idea. This would explain why she's so inconsistent throughout the series. Thanks for your explanation, it was very helpful =) Honestly, I would love to see a long redemption for her. She's fourteen she still has plenty of time to make up for her mistakes. Do you think she can be redeemed?

[@thunderbirdizations]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed I hope they redeem her and they do it right (not sure how it’s possible though, writers will have to figure that out). I think it would help a lot of people

[@cynicaloptimist970]

Do you listen to Meat Loaf? Because you took the words right out of my mouth... I don't know how many times I said "thank you" throughout this entire video. It always warms my heart when someone has the same views on Azula as I do. Thank you for this.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I know some Meat Loaf songs, but that one I have not had the pleasure of listening to yet. I'm glad that you enjoyed the video! Azula has always been one of my favorite characters of all time. I just relate to her a lot. Especially, in the episode The Beach...hahaha! It took a lot of brain power to figure out, but I had a lot of fun looking more in-depth at her character! Let me know if you have any other unanswered Avatar: Last Airbender questions =)

[@uche_the_author]

The one thing I really hope for from the Netflix series, is that Azula and Zuko's relationship is more explored. I want more dynamics in their relationship, i hope we see more of their bond and not just their rivalry. Let their sibling relationship be given more depth, especially on Azula's end

[@uche_the_author]

And Sokka and Kotara, their relationship is mostly full of banter for comedy but I love those few times when they are genuinely worried for each, like when Aang burnt Katara, i love how Sokka was so protective and caring of her, i would like to see more of that, from Katara's end as well.

[@uche_the_author]

I wish siblings relationship was explored in general. It's always ignored.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I never really thought about this before, but yeah a agree. I want to see more with Azula and Zuko. Some of the reasons I love the first filler episode of Book 3 is that they finally get interested in a neutral setting. One of my favorite moments is in "Nightmare and Daydreams" where Zuko wasn't invited to the war meeting. Azula advises him to go. In my opinion, it's an underrated scene, but it's one of my favorites...haha. If I'm really being honest, what I wish the series did, is have Zuko write a note saying goodbye to Azula instead of Mai. Or have Azula beg for Zuko to stay. Really hammer home what starts Azula's downfall.

[@Universeknight10055]

I fan of azula and ty lee and mai. I look see next videos.

[@PrimeMinisterRetsuko]

2:22 she gets a lot out of it, actually. she gets to accomplish her original mission and then some, and she gets to bring down her nations greatest threat while also saving herself from any possible consequences if some avatar woowoo causes it to go wrong. By bringing Zuko in, she can’t possibly face repercussions. At best, she completed her mission, took over the last major earth kingdom stronghold, and the avatar is out-of-the-way. Worst case scenario, she still gets those first two things, and Zuko takes the fall For the avatar surviving she knew there was a chance that killing the avatar wouldn’t be so easy, but she wasn’t going to give up the chance to do it either. This way, she gets to have her cake and eat it too. If it goes right, it goes right. If it goes wrong, it’s not her fault anyway, so it doesn’t matter. She still gets to look good. She was playing a long game and thinking strategically, knowing to expect the unexpected.

[@rawdasalmataman7908]

I don't think azula wanted zuko back I mean she wanted to kill her brother in an episode in book 3. In book 2 I don't think she told him that because she wanted him back She told her father that zuko killed the avatar even though it wasn't him it was azula and the avatar is probably not dead. That is actually manipulation Azula won't gain anything if she gold ozai that she killed the avatar because ozai already loves her and respects her but if she told him that zuko did it she can have zuko in her hands she can control zuko. Maybe some part of azula cared for zuko but I don't think really. Don't get me wrong I love azula but still she does some things that makes you doubt she loved her brother or cared about him.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I one hand you are correct. Azula does manipulate Zuko. The whole Avatar being dead thing is a power move for sure. However, Azula is also kind to her brother in the beach. Checking on him and asking if she has angered him in some way. It's a very confusing relationship that can be looked upon both ways.

[@rawdasalmataman7908]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed Yeah but still Her moments when she bothers zuko or wants to kill him are more than her moments being caring towards him That does make sense and all but I am just disagreeing with parts of your argument. I personally like their realionship it was more expanded on in the comics . Azula cares about zuko if he is not one her way In the beach episode that was a vacation they were here as teenagers so they acted normally ( or tried since these poor teenagers don't know how to act like teenagers) In the southern raiders azula tried to kill zuko maybe that's because after she got betrayed she went crazy and wanted to kill zuko. She also manipulated him to betray iroh I mean it was zuko 's choice but azula still manipulated him she was a part of his choice. Don't get me wrong zuko was the one who made the choice I don't blame him for that. Azula is one of my favourite villans and zuko is one of my favourite characters of all time I like all of their moments together. I liked how zuko wanted to help azula in the search. The search is probably my favourite comic because of their sibling moments together .

[@TheUnknown-yx8zc]

As a huge avatar fan I think azula did love zuko but in her own weird way. She still felt the need to have constant control and advantages in her relationships cause of her own insecurities. However I think she genuinely loved her brother

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

My favorite episodes are the filler ones before the Day of Black Sun because you see Zuko and Azula dynamic. Sure Azula throws a lot of sarcastic comments at her brother, but you can still see you care about him.

[@capricino451]

Why does this make so much sense to me 😂

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Haha, It took a lot of brain power to figure this out, but I'm happy that I finally found an answer.

[@deandredukes95]

The essence of being human is that one does not seek perfection.

[@xerhat5100]

this video is underrated

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Thanks! Azula's one of my favorite characters of all time!

[@rawdasalmataman7908]

I do think azula wants validation but I dooubt she thought her mother leaving is her fault. She never thought of that. However she thinks her mother see her as a monster which is not true but she thinks that way because that is what she thinks of herself.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I see what your saying! That's an interesting point!

[@tabby842]

I think everyone in one way or another wants validation. Humans don't like unknowns, we seek validation or a means of understanding to fill the void. I think Azula's last appearance in the Kemurikage arc still doesn't demonstrate that she's settled in her anger. The very act of trying to turn Zuko into a tyrannical ruler is her desperation to validate her own beliefs about how people react to fear. It's the saying 'misery loves company'. Negative people who like to spread their own negativity because in a way it's all validation, they need to know the things that make them upset will have the same effect on others because it justifies their negativity. People who do this still aren't sure about themselves and their beliefs. Otherwise she wouldn't be dedicating her life to trying to prove herself right. As for her redemption, if we mean it in the general sense, you would have to answer how to cure narcissism. Azula IMO is a textbook narcissist, and having grown up under one and seen professional opinions discussing this topic, it's really really hard, some therapists and psychiatrists think it's basically impossible to cure. I used to share this opinion but in short, I wonder if it can be done by putting the subject into an environment where none of their tools work. They'll essentially be forced to relearn how to live life in order to survive, and this environment MUST incentivize this individual to socialize and cooperate with others in a positive manner. My opinion is that narcissists turn to their tools of manipulation because they don't know how else to navigate social environments, so you have to break this line of thinking. There's an Azula focused comic later this year (Azula in the Spirit Temple), that people suspect could contain either a redemption arc or a final say in her fate. ATLA writer Aaron Ehasz said in a twitter thread that he wanted an Azula redemption arc but it would involve Zuko's unwavering support through her recovery as the main point. As said before I'm not sure this is would work, it sounds really fanservicey to me, though I won't deny the importance of support I don't see it as THE reason she heals. I'm not sure how involved he is in the writing, but the fact that a SPIRIT temple is even mentioned holds a lot of potential. Because you can't bend in the spirit world, Azula having to make do without her bending will be the first step in forcing her to face her fears without all her tools. And spirits can't be manipulated like people can, so this is the scenario I mentioned above, where she'll have to start over and develop skills she should've earlier in life. I'm holding out hope that her story ends on a bittersweet note at least, because in LoK Katara (why would Katara even know?) mentions Ursa's story in a positive tone. So that means it must've ended somewhat well knowing how intertwined her development is with Azula. Also Azula must've failed her mission statement if Zuko seems to have reigned benevolently in LoK, meaning she had to figure out a new outlet for her anger.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! This probably took a lot of time to write so I appreciate you taking the time to do so. Now, I might not see Azula as a narcissist. Honestly, never thought about it. I do agree that the best thing for Azula to do is get out of the environment she was living in before. Away from the palace, and her old friends. Too many raw emotions reside within these walls. For her to stop trying to take control getting away from the throne is the first step. I'm very excited about this new comic, to see her steps at redemption. I'm going to be very bummed out if they end it with her fully redeemed. Because quite frankly I do feel that her path is going to be far more difficult than Zuko's. She's ambitious and has no motivation to fuel her efforts. For fire benders, inner motivation is a big source of their powers. If Azula is at rock bottom or close to it, there is a high chance that her abilities will be lesser or gone altogether. Forcing her to go to this temple or people find her and bring her to this temple. Where she'll have to, like you said "break her line of thinking," in order to move on. After visiting it don't think that she'll a different person, but she'll heal some of the pain, and have a better understanding of herself. Those are just my hopes for the story. As for Zuko and Azula. I do think it is important for both to heal their relationship. Helping Zuko grow wiser, like Uncle Iroh, and helping Azula find validation with someone who understands their broken family. I do feel like this is the final step in the journey which shouldn't be explored in this one comic. Whatever happens, it's just nice to have another look at such an interesting character! Thank you again for your thoughts =)

[@theddae]

2:18 Of course it feels out of character, it’s manipulation.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Understandable, I can see it both ways.

[@fyevalentine7670]

Both of her parents were bad parents

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I would agree that Ozai was a terrible father, but Ursa had her own problem to deal with and she was trying her best. I will say she didn't understand Azula, but everything she did was out of love to make Azula a better person.

[@yorhaunit21o32]

This hurts….

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

It really does...Azula is a character I just wish I could give a hug to.

[@naturalinstinct4950]

Really draws a parellel between Azula and Katara

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

It really does! I know there's a nice video explaining that. Here is the title: How Azula and Katara's stories mirror each other in Avatar: The Last Airbender You should take a look at it if you haven't already =)

[@naturalinstinct4950]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed i did watched the video. Both of them just wanna patch their broken family together...

[@tylersmith9465]

The characters were complication but very interesting and the family should’ve tried more to understand each other’s feelings about their relationships🤨

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I feel like there were a lot of factors that caused this family to fall apart. It's truly pretty sad

[@tylersmith9465]

What did azulon think of sozin as a kid who was he competition for the throne👦🤔💭

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I don't know? I would really like to see a House of Dragon-type show that just focuses on the Fire Nation royal family. I feel there is still so much information we don't know about them.

[@JabamiLain]

The following question is related to Azula. Kurama was neither manipulative nor patient enough to corrupt him (which is a real shame given the fact he's based around the Kitsune). But let's imagine that the Nine Tails was actually Azula. And like Pain, she managed to make enough sense through out his life. What would the end result be ?

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

That's an interesting question! I'm not sure I can answer. I don't know much about the lore of Naruto. If you have any theories I would love to hear them =)

[@JabamiLain]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed prepare yourself for a long read: -Well, he did admit that through out his life there were multiple moments he actually did consider leaving the Village. The only thing that kept him from doing it was because by the time he was ready to do it, people like Ikura started getting closer to him, not to mention before that, he had been shown kindness every now and then. And... I don't think he would be very fond of the creature that destroyed his life. Buuuuuuuuuuut... Azula knows exactly how to press buttons and maneuver people's infrastructures. She can convince him that his happiness is only a temporary thing, because from the then on, as a ninja, he would need her. Zabuza and Haku showed him and the rest of the team what being a Shinobi really meant. And Sasuke almost died. Regardless if he liked her or not, they had to work together. He had to learn from whatever she could give him, otherwise his ideals would end right before they could impact his future career/path to become a Hokage. He liked to jump ahead into the battle and make up the strategy as he went along ? Well, he needs a strong armor if he intends to entertain that lign of thought. After all, she was the one who had allowed him to defeat Haku, who was a much superior opponent to Naruto. But it's with Orochimaru and Sasuke that things get tricky. Even if he starts allowing her to come out more in order to not repeat that little gamble in which the prize was the loser's life, seeing Sasuke's lack of care for what Orochimaru's little gift might do to his body could have him be more reluctant in using her further. However, the reinforced seal put on Naruto before he started training under Jiraya for the first time did cause him some difficulties in using his own chackra, as it was tightly conneced to Nine Tails. If Kurama was Azula, she could convince him to not allow others to shut her down like that again, unless he wanted to go again through that humiliating struggle to hold his techniques and jutsus together due to the lack of her own chackra to help his. The rest is a bit more ambiguous to say the least. Even though I can picture him letting her out more, as she would make him understand just how much he really needed her and therefore there was no point in burning bridges, seeing Gaara and his Tailed Beast, and later Sasuke's first acts of rebellion and betrayal, both potential allies she could use alongside this Orochimaru in order to hopefully with take full control or find release... Azula sees friendship and alliances as asserting your authority, something not even Naruto is above of. She could try to convince him to take a somewhat gentle approach towards Gaara after his defeat, since she knows better than destroy all your rivals, so maybe the fight's outcome against Gaara won't change much. But Sasuke is the tricky one. Naruto did agree to fight Sasuke when the Uchiha was just recovering from the emotional, psychological and physical toll his would-be fight against Itachi had on him. That doesn't sound much like what a concerned friend would do. Maybe Azula would encourage Naruto's lack of understanding of friendship even further. To distrust him further and further, in the hopes Sasuke would be taken care of, since she had enough of the Uchiha trying to control her in the past. That... Or, given how practical she tries to be in spite of her own trauma, she might try to convince Naruto to investigate Itachi's story further in order to find the right arguments and get close enough to Sasuke to take away from him the only thing that catches Orochimaru's attention (he did say he would break Sasuke's bones if that meant he would stay in the Village, and the Sharingan is similar to a bone). Who knows, if their non-Uchiha sensei had one, maybe Azula could convince her Jinjurichi to get one. That would certainly give her an edge. I am unable to go further than this. I do not know just how possessive Naruto can get, and given the life threatening properties of the Orochimaru's gift alongside the Snake's other sins, I don't know how things will play out for both boys in the "Deserter" arc.

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Dang, this was a very detailed explanation! I really appreciate your taking the time to write your thoughts down. Honestly, this seems like an interesting crossover I would gladly read if someone were to make it! Thanks again for your time =)

[@JabamiLain]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed you're welcome. Honestly, I've been considering making a fanfic in which the world of "Naruto" actually is a time period of "The Last Airbender's" set WAY after the events of our favorite cartoon. But I still need to decide how much interest I have on this project in order to know if I'll actually go through with it.

[@louiswalusimbi8006]

Growing up is realizing that Zuko was born WAAAAAY luckier than Azula. Literally everyone who mattered favored Zuko over her (not that we can blame them. Zuko has far superior mental health).

[@bdariamihaela]

I don't think Azula loves Zuko, cares about him, yes, respects him, sort of, he is her older brother after all, idk for sure it's hard to say, she is for me the most complicated character in all atla

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

It's complicated...I think she does care, but her loyalty to her father is stronger. Zuko was banished, her mother left and Ozai was the only person to stay by her side. It is a tough call but from the scenes, Zuko and Azula have together in the early episode of Book 3. I think we see a more light-hearted side of Azula. One that's trying to tease her brother. Azula is one of my favorite characters in this show. There are some many layers to her character =)

[@bdariamihaela]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed Azula is like an onion, she has layers and it makes you cry

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

it sure does...haha! Sometimes I don't want to finish the show because I don't want to see her downfall.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

I would say read the search comic if did not read it yet. There is a scene of Zuko telling Azula that despite how messed up their relationship is she is still his sister. You can see it had deep impact on her.

[@AndalusianPhilosopher]

Also Azulas story is not finished and remains unwritten for the most part. There is no information as to what happens to her in Korra.

[@bdariamihaela]

Ozai and Iroh are deffinetly stronger than her

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I think all are great firebenders in their own right, but I'm personally biased towards Azula...haha!

[@bdariamihaela]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed We all kind of are, mostly 'cause we see her more than Ozai and Iroh, I mean when I first saw the finale I was more worried for Zuko than for Aang. I was 100% sure Aang will defeat Ozai but I wasn't so sure about Zuko defeating Azula

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

I have to agree with you. I was definitely more invested in Zuko and Azula's fight. However, I was more concerned if Azula was mental okay...she was not....haha!

[@dumdumbb]

AZULA IS THE BEST

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

She's one of my favorite characters of all time!

[@dumdumbb]

@@CinemaOverAnalyzed yah mine to and BTW u did amazing job I actually didn't notice all of this when I watched it...... But then u explain it so well

[@CinemaOverAnalyzed]

Thank you that means a lot!