Somehow stuffing the first season of the animated series into eight episodes, Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender is brimming with awaited cameos, subtle references, and Easter eggs for fans.
And in the second episode of the live action adaptation, there’s a sweet reference to the original Nickelodeon series’ iconic opening credits.
In episode 2: “Warriors”, when Aang (Gordon Cormier), Katara (Kiawentiio), and Sokka (Ian Ousley) visit the warrior community of Kyoshi Island, the gang are settling in as guests. Following an absolute feast of a breakfast, Aang is approached by one of the curious children of the village, who asks him if he’s really an Airbender (they’re more than rare these days). After showing off his bending skills with a neat levitating spoon, Aang heads outside to play with the rest of the kids — remember, he’s one too.
In this scene, Aang conjures up his signature airball, zooming around on it before slamming into a stone statue with an “ooft”. The moment is a satisfying Easter egg for fans of the animated series, who will recognise the scene from the opening credits.
It’s the part of the credits when Katara, in voice over, explains, “Although his airbending skills are great, he has a lot to learn before he’s ready to save anyone.” It’s almost a sick burn if it wasn’t so true, and it’s proven as such as Aang slams face first into the statue.
There are plenty of moments like this for fans of the series, whether cabbage-related or otherwise. We’ve written a giant guide to which episodes are covered, so you don’t have to do the yarn-walling.
Avatar: The Last Airbender is now streaming on Netflix.
