Netflix’sAvatar: The Last Airbenderincludes a devastating death that retcons the original story, revealing a harsh reality about the Gaang that persists throughout the entire franchise. The first season of the remake lays the groundwork for the epic story that builds inAvatar: The Last Airbenderseason 2and 3 (which should correspond to Book 2 and 3 of the OG show).
This includes introducing the entertaininglead and supporting characters inAvatar: The Last Airbender, who will help Aang along his journey. However, the Netflix show makes a daring change to the story by killing one of the best characters. Ultimately, the retcon reveals a harsher truth about Team Avatar in theAvatar: The Last Airbenderfranchise.
Momo’s Death In Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 1 Is A Devastating Change From The Original Show
I Will Never Forgive Them Killing Momo (Even If They Brought Him Back To Life)
In the original Nickelodeon show, Momo first appears inAvatar: The Last Airbenderbook 1, episode 3, and he continues to be a (very alive) presence until the last episode. In fact, he lands on Aang’s shoulder after the avatar defeats Ozai. However, the Netflix series takes a sharp turn towards the tragic at theend ofAvatar: The Last Airbenderseason 1.
In the finale of the first season, Momo swoops in to save a Water Tribe girl, sacrificing himself in the process. It was absolutely heartwrenching to watch for me becauseI fully believe that he’s the most underrated member of Team Avatar.
Luckily, Yue and Sokka bring him back to life with the help of the Moon Spirit because I would riot if they killed off Momo permanently. However, this, in conjunction with the decreased presence of Momo in the Netflix adaptation, points to a harsh reality: the non-human members of Team Avatar aren’t appreciated nearly as much as they should be. This is especially true in the Netflix remake, but it is also true to a degree in the original Nickelodeon show,The Legend of Korra, and the comics.
The Non-Human Members Of Team Avatar Don’t Get Enough Recognition, Despite How Integral They Are
Appa, Momo, Pabu, And Naga Are Central To The Avatar: The Last Airbender Franchise
AcrossAvatar: The Last AirbenderandThe Legend of Korra, four prominent non-human characters take on member roles in Team Avatar: Appa and Momo from the OG team and Pabu and Naga from Korra’s team. Even though they’re just as developed as the human characters,the story treats these four almost as pets instead of characters of their own.
Momo and Appa should be included with Sokka, Katara, and Aang when we discuss the OG Avatar group.
Additionally, the animal characters are given less appreciation as proper members of Team Avatar – especially Momo and Pabu, who are treated as comedic relief – despite having an integral role in the story. Momo pretends to be the avatar, warns Aang about Azula, and helps them practice manners as Lord Momo of the Momo Dynasty. Pabu also repeatedly offered Korra emotional support.
The fact that Momo’s death in Netflix’sAvatar: The Last Airbendercan cause such an intense emotional reaction is a reminder to give him and the other non-human members of Team Avatar a little more love. Momo and Appa should be included with Sokka, Katara, and Aang when we discuss the OG Avatar group. Even King Bumi, the eccentric King of Omashu, knew this.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Cast
Avatar: The Last Airbender follows a young boy, the Avatar, who embarks on a quest to master the four elemental powers. Tasked with saving a world engulfed in war, he must confront a relentless adversary determined to thwart his mission.
Avatar: The Last Airbender, released in 2005, follows a young boy in a war-torn world of elemental magic as he reawakens to embark on a challenging mystical quest to fulfill his destiny as the Avatar and restore peace to the world.
