10 Iconic Episodes Of Avatar: The Last Airbender
These episodes represent the best of what Avatar: The Last Airbender has to offer...
Avatar: The Last Airbender is one of the most popular kids shows of its time and has garnered a strong following by dedicated fans long after its series finale.
In a world where people can bend the elements to their will, the show is centred around Aang, the last survivor of the Air Nomads and the current Avatar, and his friends Katara, Sokka and Toph, as they strive to end the war with the Fire Nation and help Aang master all four elements.
From February 2005 to July 2008, Avatar was incredibly successful with audiences and critics. It earned immense praise for its writing, which featured subjects rarely covered in youth entertainment. It also combined traditional anime and western cartoon styles that earned the show even more praise for its eye popping animation, particularly during the show's many well choreographed fight scenes.
With sixty-one episodes to choose from, it is hard for fans to pick their favourites as all three seasons have very strong contenders. But the following list will cover ten of Avatar’s most iconic episodes that stand out as the best the show has to offer in terms of writing, animation and pay off.
10. The Warrior’s of Kyoshi (Book 1: Episode 4)
Not long into their journey to the Northern Water Tribe, the gang decides to take a short break on Kyoshi Island. Although they are initially attacked and captured by the island's protectors, the all female Kyoshi Warriors, they are freed once Aang proves he is the Avatar.
Sokka is embarrassed after being bested by the Kyoshi Warriors and sets out to prove he is a better fighter. But after being humiliated multiple times, he swallows his pride and asks to be trained by their leader, Suki. Meanwhile, Aang lets the fame and attention he is receiving from the island’s inhabitants get to his head, which creates a rift between him and Katara and at one point puts her in danger.
It’s a great early episode of the show because it results in Aang and Sokka learning vital lessons. Aang learns he must take his role as the Avatar more seriously if he means to end the war, while Sokka learns he has a long way to go before he is the warrior he strives to be.
Plus, the episode includes Aang riding a giant sea serpent to save the inhabitants from the attacking Fire Nation.