Coming to Netflix next month, the live-action adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” promises to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved animated series. One significant change fans can expect is the toning down of Sokka’s sexism, as revealed by cast members Kiawentiio and Ian Ousley in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
According to Ousley, the live-action show aims for a more realistic approach in every way. As a result, the element of Sokka’s sexism from the original show has been deliberately removed. Kiawentiio added that there were several moments in the animated series that raised concerns.
The decision to address Sokka’s sexism comes as no surprise, considering the discussions it has sparked among fans. Many have highlighted instances where Sokka made sexist remarks, such as stating that girls are better at fixing pants while guys are better at hunting and fighting.
However, the changes in Netflix’s adaptation go beyond Sokka’s character. Showrunner Albert Kim has shared that the show will deviate from the animated series’ beginning. Instead, it will depict the genocide of the Airbender people and the rise of the Fire Nation, which were only alluded to previously.
Kim believes that this conscious decision to differentiate the live-action series from the animated one will provoke various reactions among fans. By remixing and unraveling storylines for a serialized drama, the show aims to deliver a fresh experience while maintaining its essence.
The live-action adaptation of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” has faced its fair share of challenges. Creators Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino spent two years developing it for Netflix before exiting due to creative differences. This left Albert Kim as the sole showrunner.
Undoubtedly, taking the helm without the original creators was a daunting task for Kim. He acknowledged feeling both excitement and hesitation, stating that improving upon something beloved by millions of fans required careful consideration.
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” is set to stream on Netflix from February 22. Fans eagerly await this refreshed adaptation of the iconic series, ready to discover how it honors the original while exploring new territory.