Legend of Korra: Book 4 is off to a strong start with the season premiere. For those who have not seen the episode, the first part of my review will be spoiler free, and you can click here to watch the episode on the official website.

Often times, time jumps leave the viewer annoyed and confused, but this time jump actually works and it provides enough information for the viewer to understand what is happening. A lot of the episode did serve as setup for what is to come by reintroducing the audience to the characters and where they are three years since the events of the previous season. For the most part, we know the status of the characters' relationships, current whereabouts, and a general sense of what has transpired in the last three years. The exposition was actually delivered with a surprisingly degree of organicality, so as to not seem forced.
Tonally, Book 4 appears to be maintaining the fun yet mature tone that was present in Book 3. However, unlike the Book 3 premiere, Book 4's tone is decidedly darker and ominous, so as to make the viewer feel as though there is an impending war, which is likely. Prince Wu's scenes were the only parts that stood out as immature and unnecessary.
In terms of animation, the series is better than ever with Kuvira's action sequence being the highlight of the episode. The voice acting is as perfect as always with a few voices that seemed familiar, but unfortunately the information about who voiced who is currently unavailable.
Overall: 8.3/10- Book 4 is off to an excellent start with the premiere episode putting all the pieces in place for what should be an exciting and intriguing conclusion to the Legend of Korra series. Of the series to premiere this fall, Legend of Korra probably had the strongest first episode, and if the series continues its high quality, it is going to be the best of the year.
Before moving on to the spoiler discussion, my current plan is to review Legend of Korra episodes on Saturdays or Sundays, since it is one of the most fun series to review.
*Warning, spoilers for the episode are ahead.*

Kuvira appears to be a new foil for Korra and the gang, except, unlike the previous antagonists, Kuvira is not overtly evil or even antagonistic with her intentions at first (Bolin is even working for her!). Apparently, she has created her own army to unite the Earth Nation, and she is known across the land as "The Uniter." However, her tactics consist of strongarming the other cities with a "Join or Die" stance will result in some conflict later in the season. Actually, I would not be surprised if she ordered the bandit's attack on Kai and Opal to steal the supplies.

In terms of comedy, the episode was generally light on humor, which is a good thing. However, "Mello the boy, becoming Mello the man" was a hilariously animated scene with some strong anime influences.
My only problem with the episode is Prince Wu, who brings an unfortunate juvenile tone to the episode that detracts from the more serious political themes of the episode. Other than that, there was nothing bad about the episode.
What did you think of the episode? Please comment below and let me know.
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Great review! :) I agree, it was a good, solid opening to the season and I am looking forward to seeing how the story unfolds. I also really liked the Airbenders this season- the outfits look really cool and I liked the development of Kai and Opal's characters. Kai seems to have gotten some integrity and is now more likable to me and Opal seems to have grown from her timid nature and become pretty powerful, so that was cool! :) It was interesting to see Korra so weakened and I am curious to see what exactly caused it(I do have a few ideas, though).
ReplyDeleteThank you! :) I am really looking forward to the Airbenders this season. They are really like Jedi, and it turns out really cool. Can't wait to see where the series is going next.
Delete-James
Hope the new season doesn't disappoint, although I think it's a slim chance of that happening! I'm glad you're enjoying it so much!
ReplyDelete~Jamie
Yep, I seriously doubt that it will disappoint.
Delete-James