nickmaclaughlin

Avatar has an extremely high rating of 9.3/10 on this site, which puts it as one of the highest rated shows ever. However, unlike most of the shows rated that high on this site, Avatar isn't overrated, and is fully deserving of being rated this high. In fact, it is fully deserving of a 10/10. That doesn't mean that the show is perfect in every way, as no show or movie can ever achieve that, but it crosses off all of the boxes of what's needed for an excellent show. And its greatness outshines its minor flaws. The writing is very strong overall. There's a good balance of depth, high-level humor, and action. It's blended well to tell a coherent, compelling story that is very unique. What also makes the writing sharp is compelling likable characters, all of the main characters in this show fit that. That's also completed by very superb voice performances by the cast. The animation is also solid, especially in the context of a mid 2000s show. And the score is also decent. Yes, this is a show aimed at children (contains many gags), but there's complex themes and thought that can also satisfy an adult audience.

This episode despite not being rated as high is a good example of what this show does well. It layers characters through well-written drama, while still often delivering good lighthearted comedy. The well-created drama is juxtaposed with Johnny's comedic dating adventures. This episode is well-names too as the name is a call back to the famous song from Karate Kid II, and a theme of the episode across the board is romantic relationships. Everyone might not enjoy love drama, but this episode is a great example of well-written, scored, acted, and edited drama.

This episode, which is one of the strongest of the first season does a good job of delivering payoff to the arcs which have been setup so far. Especially with the Miguel character, we see great growth with him. Johnny has great nuance here. And characters such as Robby, Aisha, and Sam are given more prominent roles connecting them to the main plot line more. Daniel's searching for balance provides a nice emotional touch that helps balance the general comedic feel of a lot of the moments. Another highlight is the score, in which old pieces from the karate kid are woven with new ones. The ending is a perfect way to wrap up midseason and set the course for the direction of the show.