How Netflix’s The Last Airbender is Tackling the Challenge of Time
Hey there, fellow gamers! Today, we’re diving into the world of Netflix’s The Last Airbender and how the show is addressing a common problem in live-action productions: the issue of actors aging between seasons. Just like in gaming, where time can be a tricky element to handle, the creators of The Last Airbender have found an ingenious way to tackle this challenge.
The Problem of Time in Live-Action Productions
Think about it—have you ever watched a show or movie where the characters’ ages don’t quite match up with the time that has passed in real life? It’s a common issue, and it’s happened in popular franchises like Harry Potter, The Walking Dead, and Stranger Things. It can be a bit jarring to see characters who are supposed to be the same age, but clearly, the actors have grown up.
So, how is The Last Airbender dealing with this problem? Showrunner Albert Kim has the answer, and it’s a lesson we can all learn from. He acknowledges that fighting against time is futile, especially when it comes to massive productions like this. Instead, they’ve embraced the idea of time jumps to bridge the gap between seasons and allow for the growth of the cast.
Kim explains, “There was no way we could do that. So we had to design this first season, especially, to accommodate the possibility of some time elapsing between the first and the second season.” It’s a smart move, just like strategizing your gameplay to adapt to the challenges that come your way.
Time Adjustments and the “Ticking Clock”
In the world of The Last Airbender, time adjustments aren’t the only considerations. The creators also had to take into account Sozin’s Comet, a significant element in the animated series. However, in this live-action iteration, its arrival isn’t as urgent—for now.
Kim states, “We definitely thought about that going into season 1 so that we can accommodate for puberty, adolescence, time passing—all of those fun things that happen to real-life human beings that don’t happen to animated characters.” It’s like leveling up in a game, where you anticipate the challenges that come with advancing stages.
A Slightly More Mature Tone
But wait, there’s more! The Last Airbender series on Netflix isn’t just adjusting for time. Kim has promised a slightly more mature tone compared to the animated version. Just like when a game franchise evolves and grows to cater to a wider audience, the creators are expanding the story’s reach by including the attack of the Fire Nation on other countries, among other things.
This new direction adds depth and complexity to the show, just like how a game becomes more immersive when it tackles mature themes and explores new territories. It’s an exciting development that will surely captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Conclusion: Embracing Change and Rising to the Challenge
The Last Airbender’s approach to handling time jumps and adapting to the growth of its cast is a valuable lesson for gamers and creators alike. Just as in gaming, where we face unexpected challenges and need to adjust our strategies on the fly, the show’s creators have embraced change and risen to the challenge.
So, fellow gamers, let’s take this lesson to heart. Embrace the twists and turns that time throws our way, and adapt with grace and ingenuity, just like The Last Airbender. And don’t forget to mark your calendars—Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender drops on Netflix on February 22. Get ready to embark on an epic adventure!