Netflix’s live-action rendition of Avatar the Last Airbender was released on February 22, 2024. Audiences were initially unsure whether this version of the iconic series would hold true to its magic, after the live-action movie, directed by M. Night. Shyamalan was received poorly by both the audience and critics.
It seems Avatar, The Last Air Bender, by Netflix, has started on a better foot, being praised for its imagery and acting. In this article, we’ll explore the cast and how they portray the beloved characters of the animated series.
Aang (Gordon Cormier)
Rating: A+
In the beginning seasons of the animated series, Aang is seen as a vivacious young boy (who is technically over 100 years old), and full of innocence and hope. Gordon Cormier was a great pick for Aang’s portrayal, as he’s the spinning image of Aang if he were to step out of his animation and into the real world. Cormier perfectly taps into Aang’s carefree spirit and passionate mission, making him the perfect pick for the Avatar.
Cormier is a relatively new actor, only previously appearing in Christmas Under the Stars alongside Jesse Metcalfe of John Tucker Must Die.
Katara (Kiawentiio Tarbell)
Rating: A
Kiawentiio Tarbell makes for an excellent Katara. The Katara character plays a pivotal role in the series, being the sole character that taps into Aang, unlike anyone else. Her strengths come from her empathy, commitment to developing her abilities, and resilience. Tarbell encapsulates these traits, paying homage to the OG Katara and giving her the justice she deserves. Tarbell is also the spinning image of katara, down from the bright eyes and hair beads.
Tarbell is also a relatively new actress, with past features appearing in Anne With an E as Ka’kwet, and 2020’s Beans, as Beans.
Sokka (Ian Ousley’s)
Rating: B-
Ian Ousley portrays Saka in the Netflix original series, brother to Katara. Ousley’s acting is less extravagant than other cast members, but maybe that was strategic for Netflix. In the animated series, Sokka brings the comedic relief often needed throughout the heavier themes the show portrays. In the Netflix adaptation, Sokka strives to bring in a sense of humor, but the lack of charisma and body language sometimes makes it fall flat. That’s not to say he isn’t a good pick for Sokka, but adding a few more vocal inflections and movements would be a more accurate portrayal.
Ousley’s most notable past project is an appearance in MTV’s infamous hit series, 13 Reasons Why.
Zuko (Dallas James Liu)
Rating: A++
Dallas James Liu shines as Zuko, embodying his fiery spirit and fierce desire to win. A more perfect actor couldn’t have been chosen to play such an important role in the Avatar series. Liu is relentless, intense, and a spinning image of the iconic animated character. In the Netflix series, Liu does a much better job portraying the human side of Zuko from the start, making him a character that Avatar fans can see past the facade and see the part of him that’s still fighting for his own sense of freedom.
Liu has appeared in the hit TV shows Pen15, the Motor Kombat: Legacy, CSI: Cyber, and Tekken.
Other Cast members include:
- Iroh – Paul Sun-Hyung Lee
- Fire Lord Ozai – Daniel Dae Kim
- Azula – Elizabeth Yu
- Ty Lee – Momona Tamada
- Avatar Kyoshi – Yvonne Chapman
- King Bumi – Utkarsh Ambudkar
- Yukari – Tamlyn Tomita
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