(no subject)
I realized that I hadn't posted anything recently. This realization came during the finale of the Legend of Korra, which I finally saw today, so I figured that a good post would be a meta about Korra and her relationships.
Here's the thing. Mako is one of my favourite characters. I absolutely hate him, but he's interesting. As much as he's a total jerk bender, his actions make sense when you consider his background. He was a homeless orphan responsible for caring for his little brother on the streets. Given this context, stringing along the daughter of the biggest industrialist in the world and the most powerful bender in the world makes sense. I don't condone it, I think he's a jerk and several things besides, but it makes sense. He spent so long worrying about resources and how to feed himself and his brother that he is conditioned to think in terms of what option gets him the best results. Not in terms of what is best for everyone else. Not in terms of what is kind, or good, or reasonable. But in terms of what gets him and his brother fed.
It's Korra's actions toward him that concerns me. She's impetuous and headstrong. At first, when Korra backs off after finding out about Asami, I thought that she was a great role model: even if it isn't one you like, respect your friends' choices and emotions, and don't chase after someone in a relationship. But since then, she has neglected that initial display of character in favour of declaring her love for Mako and kissing him even though there hasn't been any clear Masami break up. Not exactly a good move. I really hope that they break up early season two (even though I know it's not going to happen-- they didn't spend an entire season setting them up for that) because that is not a healthy foundation for a relationship. Also, they really owe Asami an apology. A really big one. A "thank you for sticking with me against your dad even though I was an ass to you."
Bolin has shown himself to be very easy going and very loyal. Even after Korra rejected him, he still shows how much he cares. He cheers her up, he reminds her that she has friends and allies. I love how fluid and natural their friendship feels. Bolin isn't the type that would think of manipulating anyone, he's too earnest. But I think that's also because of Mako. Mako took the job at the power plant so that Bolin doesn't have to worry. Mako does the dirty work so that Bolin doesn't have to.
Korra's relationship with Tenzin, Pema and the kids is telling. She cares for them like family. She gets annoyed, frustrated and sometimes angry with them. But she still goes the extra distance for them. Beyond saving them from Amon, she talks to the kids like equals. She trains with them. She loves them.
Korra and Asami are complicated. On one hand, they have the worst love triangle ever. It's pointless and doesn't add anything to their characters. On the other hand, they work well together. They're amazing in a fight together and they could have been really good friends. I wish that were developed more. Korra was willing to let her live on Air Temple Island even though they didn't know each other well, and Korra considered her an opponent of sorts. Asami stuck with Korra and helped her fight, even knowing that keeping that allegiance meant fighting her only remaining family.
And that's enough for now. Part two next time, maybe?
Here's the thing. Mako is one of my favourite characters. I absolutely hate him, but he's interesting. As much as he's a total jerk bender, his actions make sense when you consider his background. He was a homeless orphan responsible for caring for his little brother on the streets. Given this context, stringing along the daughter of the biggest industrialist in the world and the most powerful bender in the world makes sense. I don't condone it, I think he's a jerk and several things besides, but it makes sense. He spent so long worrying about resources and how to feed himself and his brother that he is conditioned to think in terms of what option gets him the best results. Not in terms of what is best for everyone else. Not in terms of what is kind, or good, or reasonable. But in terms of what gets him and his brother fed.
It's Korra's actions toward him that concerns me. She's impetuous and headstrong. At first, when Korra backs off after finding out about Asami, I thought that she was a great role model: even if it isn't one you like, respect your friends' choices and emotions, and don't chase after someone in a relationship. But since then, she has neglected that initial display of character in favour of declaring her love for Mako and kissing him even though there hasn't been any clear Masami break up. Not exactly a good move. I really hope that they break up early season two (even though I know it's not going to happen-- they didn't spend an entire season setting them up for that) because that is not a healthy foundation for a relationship. Also, they really owe Asami an apology. A really big one. A "thank you for sticking with me against your dad even though I was an ass to you."
Bolin has shown himself to be very easy going and very loyal. Even after Korra rejected him, he still shows how much he cares. He cheers her up, he reminds her that she has friends and allies. I love how fluid and natural their friendship feels. Bolin isn't the type that would think of manipulating anyone, he's too earnest. But I think that's also because of Mako. Mako took the job at the power plant so that Bolin doesn't have to worry. Mako does the dirty work so that Bolin doesn't have to.
Korra's relationship with Tenzin, Pema and the kids is telling. She cares for them like family. She gets annoyed, frustrated and sometimes angry with them. But she still goes the extra distance for them. Beyond saving them from Amon, she talks to the kids like equals. She trains with them. She loves them.
Korra and Asami are complicated. On one hand, they have the worst love triangle ever. It's pointless and doesn't add anything to their characters. On the other hand, they work well together. They're amazing in a fight together and they could have been really good friends. I wish that were developed more. Korra was willing to let her live on Air Temple Island even though they didn't know each other well, and Korra considered her an opponent of sorts. Asami stuck with Korra and helped her fight, even knowing that keeping that allegiance meant fighting her only remaining family.
And that's enough for now. Part two next time, maybe?