It still disturbs me thinking how much Zuko must have suffered because of Azula to have a "Sanity Mantra" of "Azula always lies" even as a young kid.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

I didn't even really think about that, but you're right! Crazy

@blueteller

4 жыл бұрын

Honestly it's painful to even think about. Just imagine how many times she must have manipulated him and his emotions for her amusement. Zuko's openly emotional, unable to lie well and he had no friends. The ways Azula could have exploited that, every day... That hurts me.

@ladykocho9308

3 жыл бұрын

yall do realize that azula turned out that way because of ursa right?? read the comics please

@blueteller

3 жыл бұрын

@@ladykocho9308 That is incorrect. Both Ozai and Ursa each favored one child because they were more like them (one soft and struggling, the other vicious and talented), it's unfair to place all blame on Ursa for what Azula turned out like. Comics aside, the fact that Zuko didn't end up as messed up as Azula, is solely a testament to his own inner strenght and growth. Ursa's flawed parenting wasn't half as damaging as Ozai's.

@RF-mc8cx

3 жыл бұрын

@lei jeon I don't think OP was putting blame on Azula, but commenting on the habits she developed from being under Ozai's wing, which would have in turn damaged Zuko.

I have watched so many videos on this episode of Avatar, but I NEVER MADE THE TURTLE DUCK COMMENT CONNECTION TO THE GRANDPA'S DEATH-

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

It hit me while editing. This episode is so jam packed with things like that I feel like I'm still not done learning about it. Maybe I'll come back later when I finish the series.

@huskylicous7963

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV trust us we have all watched the show more than once

I think Ozai realized very early that Azula was a prodigy and began focusing on her, while he disregarded Zuko. This made Ursa shower him with love even more, to make up for his father's neglect. Azula probably saw that as Ursa loving Zuko more than her, and since her father gave her attention and praise, she gravitated more towards him and his "morals". At some point, there was probably little Ursa could do to correct Azula's behaviour. Her and Ozai's parenting goals are complete opposites: She values love and compassion, he only values power (particularly firebending) and obedience. Azula was probably never the most empathetic, but in a different situation she might have become a decent percon. Ironically, her power was her curse. If she had been the sibling that was worse at firebending and disregarded by her father, she might have developed very differently.

@heatyeet531

3 жыл бұрын

Wow I never thought that

@speedy01247

2 жыл бұрын

Ozai married Ursa for the sake of making a stronger fire bender (something the royal family did often) ozai assumed that the granddaughter of the last Avatar would prove good for their bending line (something he believes he was right about with Azula being that superior bender)

The realization of what Zuko's mom did!!! I felt the same, like OH SHIT

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

It's crazy. What hit me even harder is the final scene where Ozai is getting crowned and everyone and it truly becomes "Zuko Alone.' His face when he realizes that... unbelievable.

@kylepirigyi9347

4 жыл бұрын

That whole twist was very well crafted.

@rhian6459

4 жыл бұрын

It's crazy how he managed to guess exactly what Ursa did.

@ashyroy9454

4 жыл бұрын

@@rhian6459 I don't know how everyone does not. Like we with my siblings understood what happened when we were first watching and we were 11, 9 and 7.

@rhian6459

4 жыл бұрын

You're right. I also suspected Ursa had something to do with saving Zuko's life, but I couldnt imagine her killing Azulon until I read the comics. It's just that he is the first reactor I've seen to actually make the connection.

Zuko Alone! I just got that...

@hobopwnr1

4 жыл бұрын

Two things (not spoilers, promise) 1) been loving the reactions, your commentary is great and I promise there is almost no time where you can read "too far" into something in this show. The writing carries a great depth throughout the show that allows characters (like Zuko) to have the "personality" they do. 2) After you finish the series, consider checking this out (kzread.info/dash/bejne/hGhplpaThdXFl6Q.html) it is an in-depth psychoanalysis of Azula that, based on our seemingly similar thought processes, I think you'd enjoy. Hope you stay happy and healthy, and I'm looking forward to what's to come. ciao!

@EverythingHappens4AReason

4 жыл бұрын

Great analysis

@matthewmazzatto8003

4 жыл бұрын

At the end you said that you were hoping for a more light-hearted episode after this. Let me tell you, this season does not calm down and will soon get very dark and desperate for both the Gaang and Zuko. The next actual light-hearted episode comes in Season 3. The rest of this season just keeps hitting you and doesn't stop.

@CloudCollapse

4 жыл бұрын

Matthew Mazzatto can you just stop and think about spoilers? Seriously, STOP low key spoiling things

@bobbyhill7622

4 жыл бұрын

Im just letting you know, in toreba they have a new set of persona hanging figures. (if you are not interested then its ok)

So ur telling me that after 15 years of me watching this show I’m just now realizing from watching this video that Zuko really is alone, not just because the episode is centered around him but because his mom left- Just another reason why I love watching these!

@loganshang1155

4 жыл бұрын

Same here. Never thought about the sword thing either.

@sub4rctic

4 жыл бұрын

@@loganshang1155 or the duck thing

@CJAmara

3 жыл бұрын

I literally just realised this aswell. Just when you didn't think this show could get better, it just keeps on giving

0:55 “that’s your favorite word, no?” “No” haha top tier commentary

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

😄

I think that Azula was mostly taken in by her dad and due to the nature of their parents relationship(it's discussed in the comics which I recommend reading after this) it may have been off-putting for her mother to approach her. It seemed like her mother care for them both but she spent more time Zuko because he needed a lot more attention since he was not prodigy that his father wanted him to be. However to Azula it may have seemed like she did not love her like she loved zuko, causing her to develop more of her father's personality and making him her primary source of parental affection.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

That was my sense as well.

@PatrixBest

4 жыл бұрын

Azula's belief that her mother does not love her is the source of much of her personality. Childhood emotional trauma, basically. This will be explored in further episodes so I won't say more.

I've always thought that the series shines the most during its serious moments. This whole episode is pretty serious and depressing, so it's always been one of my favorites

@HarukaLPs

4 жыл бұрын

As we've said all along, "Not a kids show"

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

This episode is pure excellence from start to finish. I can't think of that many moments I've seen on TV as gut wrenching as the part where Zuko realizes he's truly alone. They packed more meaning and value into this one 23 minute episode than most shows do in an entire season.

"there are two conflicting forces that are playing out inside of him"

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

"two halves of the same whole"

@katshik2282

4 жыл бұрын

Lol, he'll get it eventually💀💀💀

@sub4rctic

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV I'm so glad you made the parallel between the swords and zuko's inner conflict. I actually cheered out loud when you popped up in the corner of the screen to mention it. Good stuff, man. Also, good on you for connecting Azulon's "untimely" death with the threat against Zuko's life. most reactors don't get it right away.

It’s a bit ironic that the knife says “never give up without a fight” and it was gotten from a surrendering earth kingdom general The link between what Zuko says to the earthbenders and possibly his view on Ozai’s reaction to Iroh’s son’s death isn’t something I’ve thought of before, but I think you might be right that it’s intentional There’s a lot to draw from the abusive upbringing of Zuko and Azula. The differences between the two despite being raised in the same household are interesting. I think your idea that Azula is just better at appeasing Ozai. She’s constantly praised as the golden child which means those that don’t fit that golden standard are unworthy. I have some experience with the dynamic of the two, though not nearly on the abusive level of Azula and Zuko. Being the golden child is safe and also terrifying because one wrong move feels like you have doomed yourself to be like the less loved child. Not to mention the whole nature vs nature thing going on. Azula could very well be a medical sociopath and having those tendencies rewarded by one of the most important authority figures of your life and country don’t make it easy to turn into a socially normal and functioning member of society. Maybe she knows how much of her dad’s love is based on luck and that probably terrifies her. It used to scare me a lot when my parents would build up high expectations of me. I was terrified of failing because they’re love felt like it hinged on my success. Sorry for the long rambling.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Azula is an interesting case. Now that you mention it, she has been shown to be a perfectionist (when she's training), which fits into what you're saying about feeling the need to be perfect for your parents. The pressure to succeed is a big deal, and for Azula, it's not only parental pressure but societal pressure, because her father is the leader of that society. For her, it's the entire world. You're right, it really does come down to nature vs. nurture, and we'll never know exactly how much either plays a role, but I think it's safe to say that the answer is, to some extent, "both." High expectations are terrifying 😂 I can definitely relate.

@adamvialpando106

4 жыл бұрын

The general did fight before he gave up so the saying still stands.

@iamdavid2095

4 жыл бұрын

Never be sorry for sharing your thoughts. It's always interesting to make these kinds of parallels and share them amongst others.

Wow, Zuko Alone..This episode is pure gold. We have seen Zuko's back story at this point, but this just adds to his already incredible character. First off, the scene where he rides by that pregnant women and doesn't rob her. It's such a good way to show that even though his morals are twisted from his family, he stills has some. But enough about that, his back story. Wow, it's just pure beautiful. It adds more to his and his sister's tragedies, and it's amazing. I'm not going to go into the back story much though, because there isn't much to say that isn't understood. It's simple, but it's important and it's beautiful. It's funny, sometimes, even the most simple episodes are the most well received. Lastly though, I like how Azula says in his back-story "Maybe you can find a nice earth kingdom family to adopt you" and in the present, that's kind of what is happening, he is with that Earth Kingdom family. Overall, what this episode does, is that it shows Zuko that even if he tries to help, bias and race division will continue despite his good intentions, and people from other nations will find it diffucult to accept his royal family blood and nation. However, this episode also offers Zuko a perfect example that the fire nation has done awful things. By seeing how affected this family and town is by the war, he's able to start determining that things aren't as black and white as he has been taught, and the fire nation isn't mistake free. This episode is a masterpiece, and will always be one of the most regarded in the show. Chapter 7: Zuko Alone: 10/10 ALSO, it may have seemed confusing, but you will get a bit more detail about what happened later, so just be patient, a lot of people are confused at this point.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

I didn't catch the earth bending family thing! That's a nice touch. This is without a doubt a masterpiece, I couldn't agree more with your 10/10 rating

@brianjohnson3795

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV also there was something else that occurred in this episode. Saying it now is a spoiler (s). Let's see if you can catch it later. It is for this season.

Zuko really was alone after his mom was gone

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Yes! I keep realizing new things about this episode after the fact.

@dm_dude

4 жыл бұрын

But he‘s got uncle Iroh, they have a really deep connection, I think.

@God_3712

3 жыл бұрын

@@dm_dude yeah but I think the uncle bit came after he was banished b4 it he was still stuck with his dad and sister

It took me a long time to realize this. When Ursa said to Zuko to never forget who you are, she didn't mean he should always remember that he is the crown prince of the Fire Nation - like what Zuko had inferred. No, she simply wanted her son to appreciate that he is someone who always keeps fighting even though it's hard.

"It's so tempting to boil large groups of people..." Tell me about it. But they don't make cauldrons big enough.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Thankfully

Dude I am living for your reactions and wisdom

@thebluecreeper5102

4 жыл бұрын

same

@fujioka1207

4 жыл бұрын

same x2

So I've been binging your whole "reaction" series, and I've kind of been putting it off because of how short they were, but I'm glad I gave you a chance. It's nice to see someone actually discuss the show and not just mug at the camera, especially when it's just you. I love hearing your thoughts and seeing your insights. I'm also laughing my ass off at some things you said. I'm going to try and remember to remind you of a ~specific~ thing you said here when you reach a ~specific~ episode.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Too SHORT? I'm always worried they're too long 😂 Thank you though. Please do remind me!

@NeroDracolith

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV time honestly flies when watching these. Your insights are very informative and it compliments the show so incredibly well!

@aamiw99

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV i don't think they're too short, but most Avatar reactions are in the 15-40 minute range. I usually skip a lot of them cause their time might just be spent speculating what I already know to be true or false. I know that's part of reactions, but I'd rather do something else with my time. You don't make it too long and you pack your reactions with insight. That's what makes them so great!

@Herpestidae

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV in general, when I see how long a reaction video is, I mentally subtract 10 minutes and go "okay, so they'll be talking for so and so minutes after watching. Can they say anything worthwhile in that time?" So then, when I see a 11 or 12 minute video, I assume 10 minutes of the show (with some mugging for the camera) and then 1 or 2 minutes of simple one-sided conversation. That's kind of why I put "reaction" in quotes with respect to your videos because I'm seeing you actually engage with what you're watching and try to start discussions. It's refreshing.

@210rebelboy

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV honestly, one of the main things that does it is you pause the show when you want to talk, as opposed to just letting the show run and talking over the jokes or information dumps. On top of that, you're incredibly insightful, and don't rely on cliche answers. Other reactors don't always dig in for deeper philosophical meaning and ideals, they're more content with the surface level, what is immediately happening. Character development is totally missed.

You are literally one of the first reactors I have ever seen that connected the dots with Zuko's mother and the death of firelord azulon. Props to you. 👍for some reason no one really bothered with it, but it's probably because they never bothered to analyze each episode. Your reactions are amazing

Reducing people outside our circle down to the lowest component is called out group homogeneity. We have to fight that tendency. You are so wise!

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! It's great to have that term now.

I love zuko and azula’s character.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

The whole family is incredible

When you pointed out that Zuko spoke out of turn, brilliant! Never even thought about that!

I need to know what your secret is to being so enlightened. Like you always can always breakdown the scenes and have insight into the meanings of them

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Haha I appreciate the compliment. It's funny because "how do you become who you are" is one of the big questions of this episode. Some of it is just who I am, but most of it is the fact that I consume A LOT of media, and I love discussing it with others.

@otezzy12221

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV Well I really try to see things as you do. Im not on the same level by any means but hopefully one day I can learn how to keep my mind open!

Another amazing reaction! Btw Azula does have more depth than this episode lets on. She isn't just a 'bad egg'. You'll realise it more in season 3. Many reactors simply write her off as an evil child who seems to be evil for no reason. But a few rewatches and paying attention to the people in her life really bring to light why she became the way she is. Can't wait for more!

So there is this sweet video created by Hello Future Me called "the Psychology of Azula." It's an interesting dive into why Azula acts the way she does. It takes a good look at Ursa and Ozai's parenting styles. While Zuko received praise from his sweet and caring mother, Azula only received praise from her fear-inducing and power-hungry father. Thus, she grew to become more like him even as Zuko grew to become more like his mother. I'd definitely recommend it after you have finished the series.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

That is similar to the conclusion I had 😀 I will be sure to check it out

@spongekeks

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV it might contain spoilers tho, you shouldnt watch any avatar analysis videos like that when you havent finished the show yet

@melkor3496

4 жыл бұрын

A Goodwin TV Hey since your done now have you seen the video? It’s really good

In my opinions Azula was soo attached to her father and independant from early age because she was a prodigy her mother didn't really give her the attention she gave Zuko so she never really had a chance to rub off her personality on her daughter

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

That was my impression as well. In her world, being like the Fire Lord is the highest honor, so if you're good at it, that behavior will be reinforced.

@Tundra0stalker

4 жыл бұрын

homunculus7 Exactly. Azula was manipulative from the start, but it was reinforced due to her father being her only source of praise and her mother only ever really scolding her and never showing her any kindness, love, etc.

I really hope you have a chance to read the comics in the future. They have some great insight into Zuko and Azulas upbringing

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

I wasn't even aware there were comics! Were they released before or after the show?

@homunculus7

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV After theres a few to plug up some plotholes they didnt have time to cover in the show

@horsegirl19951

4 жыл бұрын

A Goodwin TV After the series. Though there’s going to be two books about Kyoshi’s life if you’re interested in reading them.

@CL-sj9lp

4 жыл бұрын

A Goodwin TV they continue after the end of the series, so it’s like a book 4 to the series

@yayiv123

4 жыл бұрын

A Goodwin TV After.They take place directly after the events of the finale. I think there are at least 5 comics so far. The show creators did an excellent job!

If you are watching this there is a great hidden detail about the knife. The knife says never give up without a fight, it subtly shows that they killed him and took the knife. But the propanda within so much such that they wouldn't paint the enemy as brave and fighting to their death so they mention it as if he surrendered. Shows that even iroh was part of this machine of propaganda to his own family before he changed

"it seems like her mother didn't have enough impact on her" - Yeah because she neglected her. Not on purpose and not in an obvious way like "not caring about her", she definitely cared, but in thinking that since Azula was Ozai and Azulon's favourite, she didn't need her like Zuko did, that was a horrible mistake. Add to that Iroh who had no understanding of his niece (he wasn't trying to favour Zuko but that's what it ended up being anyway) and you know how she turned out that way: She was shaped entirely by her father, probably starting with the very first time he saw her firebend. So yeah of your two options it's definitely the second one imo. I mean, I'm sure some people are born with predispositions for turning a certain way when exposed to certain stimulus so you could argue that she was in part born this way she was not fated to turn out that way, she could have been raised way better. - And yeah it's not explicit but Azula was not lying, Azulon did ask for Zuko's head. So yeah Ursa would murder the shit out of Azulon for even suggesting something like that xD

Just for you to know: EVERYTHING in this show is intentional. Writing. They don't make cartoons or kids/teenagers shows like these anymore.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

It's hard to find anything at this caliber, period 😄

@LordCommander-ui2fw

4 жыл бұрын

They still do. Ever seen the Dragon Prince? It’s actually by the same guys who did this show, and it’s magnificent. It’s even been called, “Game Of Thrones for kids.”

@neko8227

3 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV Then watch legend of korra a lot of people hate it but the show is magnificent and a complete stand alone and amazing sequel

@nagapandian

3 жыл бұрын

@@LordCommander-ui2fw yeah the main character has the same VA as sokka I’m pretty sure, and there are some references to ATLA in there too

dude, you have the deepest analysis of this show yet.

This reaction was so satisfying to watch. The recent reactions I've seen always seem to think that Ozai killed Azulan, when the writing imo does such a great job of showing the culprit to be Ursa; showing how far she would go to protect her son.

the "how azula feeds turtleducks" is also something worth noting from this episode. it's a very subtle but effective way of showing her aggressive nature and lack of compassion. it is widely known that sociopaths (in their childhood) harm animals, and supposedly a lot of serial killers have done that while they were kids. it is said it's one of the best signs to spot a sociopath at a young age. i think it's very clever of the show (which was technically "for kids") to include such a scene in the episode but still keep it "lighthearted" and appropriate.

@santosic

4 жыл бұрын

Yes, it's awesomely clever, and it does explains a lot about her personality.

15:30 Ha, he wants a breather in ‘The Chase’. 😂

You know a character is well written and interesting when they can hold on a whole episode and not bore you

This is the first video of yours I've ever watched. I really like the steep balance in favor of discussion and speculation over literal "reaction," especially since your comments were often incisive and always interesting.

I know I’m a little late to the party, but I just couldn’t help adding my two cents. Your analysis of Zuko and Asula is very sophisticated and reminded me of my many psychology classes back in the day 😌(But before I start rambling, please know that English isn’t my first language). In psychology I learned that there are 3 main factors that (while growing up) shape a person’s personality/behavior to what it is today. One factor is the genetic requirements a person has at birth (IQ, physical aspects ect), the second factor are the environmental influences (upbringing, experiences, cultural influences ect) and the last factor is active self-direction (shaping oneself), which describes a person actively engaging and (I couldn’t find a better word) deal with its environmental situation for better or for worse. Considering all that I’m always floored by how very accurate the writers of atla portrayed many characters , especially Zuko and Asula, and what lead to their personality’s being the way they are! It also always made sense to me that Ozai, being the second born son and lacking compared to Iroh personality wise, would favor Asula. She is also a second born child but compared to him a prodigy, so by comparing himself with Asula he is trying to smother his complexes through her. It’s horrible how his influence on Asula shaped her for the worse.

You know, I love that you're so good at talking about what's going on without making come off as annoying. Not many reactors can do that, especially if they're literally talking over the important scenes. I love your insights into a lot of the scenes, especially in this episode. You're clearly paying attention and actually taking in what's being presented to you onscreen. Some reactors struggle with this one too, missing important, although to be fair, small, details.

Been loving the commentary. Also the speedy rate at which new reactions are posted. I appreciate the effort. I'm a new fan but the unique intelligence of this conversation will keep me coming back for a long time. Thank you.

Something that always stuck with me ever since I first watched this episode is that even though he has a certain sense of nobility and honor to him, shown by him not wishing to revoke Iroh's birthright to the throne, Azulon also seems cold and harsh towards Ozai, and indifferent and uninterested in Zuko and Azula, considering their academic and firebending performances a waste of time. It's obvious that Ozai was making a power play when he made the suggestion to have the line of succession changed in his favor, but he also had a valid point. Iroh's bloodline had ended with the death of Lu Ten, so Zuko and Azula were the only ones who could keep the royal bloodline alive. In response Azulon presumably orders Ozai to kill his own firstborn, at least according to Azula. If it's actually true then it shows us not only how cold and cruel Azulon's treatment of Ozai is, but also how he has no regard for Zuko's life. A lot of people comment on Ozai being an abusive parent for burning and banishing Zuko, but Azulon wouldn't exactly win any 'Father of The Year' awards either. This whole backstory helps to establish something tragic, but very real, which is the cycle of abuse.

Dude . Your channel is so underrated. 100k subs folks!

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

This is the best reaction series on youtube

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

Wow, thank you!

Some of the best commentary on KZread. Although, I am bias due to subject matter.

I stumbled upon your channel through recommendations in the comment sections of other AtLA reactions. I've been enjoying the content so far, but after watching this one, I have one major complaint... I don't think I can find as much enjoyment in other react channels now that I know this level of analysis and understanding exists on the platform. I've seen this show probably 4 times myself, and I've watched at least 10 different channels react to it. Even so, you've presented insights I've never thought of previously. The editor's note about Zuko explaining the swords + the image of the blades visually dividing the "two sides" of his face (scarred eye vs. unscarred eye) made my eyes well up with tears briefly, considering the full context of his story (he's my favorite character by far). It's a detail I never noticed, and it feels so obvious in hindsight! This is INCREDIBLE content. I can't wait to watch more from you.

Zuko is both of his parents: his mother’s warmth and his father’s power. Both sides of the same element of fire that his struggle is to find balance between.

You are honestly one of the best reactionist KZreadrs right now. Discovered you after reacting to my favorite weird thinker hippie’s show Midnight Gospel. I love blind wave and Normies but you are much more insightful instead of asking the common questions. Can’t wait to see how many subs you have in 3 years.

you’re the only reactor i’ve seen who looks at zuko alone and still tries to see azula as not just born evil. that ability seems so valuable to me, and i feel like seeing that in her makes the rest of the show more rewarding

I LOVE your insight and how you look for symbolism and such. ATLA is fun to analyze :)

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

I'm loving it, and it seems to keep getting deeper 😀

@notsurewhatsgoingon5477

4 жыл бұрын

@@AGoodwinTV yeah the parallelism (like you mentioned) is especially great, and it only gets better!

I completely agree with your description as to why Azula and Zuko turned out different. They both wanted to be like their father but Zuko didn't live up to the expectations of Ozai while Azula did so she was the one who was praised by him while Zuko was shunned, which made Zuko turn more to his mother than Azula. In terms of the blades, I also noticed that Zuko has more success with blades than with fire, but his sword proficiency is not something he boasts or something he actively is shown to train while he is repeatedly depicted struggling with firebending. I believe it is part of this "Blue spirit" persona where he displays his true inner intentions/desires even the selfish ones, but he hides behind the mask because his intentions/desires may go against what is expected of him (To be a good firebender, to never go against the fire nation, to not steal or commit petty crimes). Sometimes he is hiding from the firenation, something he is hiding from the earth nation, and something he is hiding from Iroh.

I'm very impressed you connected the dots with Zuko's mother so swiftly. 11:43

I love your reactions, I love that you pause to discuss because it's so easy to miss something important in this show if you aren't paying attention. Plus it makes your viewers able to pay more attention to what you're observing and discussing.

It’s crazy to think this show was on Nickelodeon. Plus Zuko’s character is one of the best examples of character writing and development I’ve ever seen. Seeing this whole other side of him truly shows that he didn’t want to be like his other family, but he was put there. Even as a kid I saw how different he is from his other family members.

Zuko’s mom always nurtured zuko, but constantly yelled at her (well not really yelled but most of the interactions we see between Azula and Ursa, Ursa is criticizing her) she even said that she thought something was wrong with her *in azula’s earshot*, her father was the one who complimented her, but for all the wrong things, like hurting people and not caring about others. So Ursa is a little bit at fault, but that’s split with ozai.

I've really been enjoying your reactions. You're very insightful and I enjoy that you take the time to actually discuss and analyze what is happening. I watch a lot of reactors and honestly you're the first I've seen actually make the connection that Ursa killed Azulon so quickly and actually tries to understand why Azula is the way she is. Kudos. It's always tickled me that her name is Ursa which means bear and she acted like a mama bear protecting her son as best she could.

I like to think that Azula turned out that way because she was so gifted that she was able to cozy up to her father effortlessly; there was no need to deal with her mother in much regard. Whereas Zuko, who wasn’t talented, was never able to get his father’s attention or recognition, so his mother had to step in and nurture him to combat the void of fatherhood he had to deal with.

One connection I don't usually see people make in this episode is between " That's who you are, someone who keeps fighting even though it's hard," and "Never forget who you are."

You love to see an intelligent, observant reactor. Your analysis and discussions about the show put me in a trance, really.

I think you have some of the best analyses of this show.

Your line of what we inherit of our parents ties with the last episode of Midnight Gospel. Our first years of life can shape our personality and world view. Also your line of thought of Azula is something I believe as well.

Yesssssss, now I can go to sleep

Hmmm I just realised dual swords are such a good symbolism for Zuko’s character

I'm glad that you recognize that not only zuko but azula is also the victim. Not many people catch that and only frame her as this evil child meanwhile yeah maybe she's more evil than zuko in nature right from the start but the nurture part from the parents also play a big role on how she became who she is.

Azula was doomed to be the cold cruel person she is cause she was born a prodigy ... her father gave her all his attention, while zuko the one one "lucky to be born" was cast aside by his father ... his mother was there for him and gave him all her love and affection while not having the chance to show as much to Azula, cause she already has her father's love

If A Goodwin gets through all of ATLA and Legend of Korra, all us Goodwinites should get a custom "Never Give Up" blade made for him.

BTW, did you notice the characters bending in the Intro? The Waterbender is Master Pakku. The Earthbender is a guy you'll meet later. The Firebender is Azula. The Airbender is Monk Gyatso.

Holy shit, I never realized the foreshadowing with the turtle duck or the double entendre of Zuko Alone. Wow

you're the first commentator thats noticed the connection between Ursa and Azulan right off the bat.

One of the best episodes!

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

...in any show ever 😁

Loved your commentary and analysis on this one :)

When she said "that's who you are, Zuko" my imidiate thought was "a failure!?" and then she kept talking and I was like "oh."

your reactions are so pleasant to watch !!! i really enjoy the way you analyze things !!

Zuko knew his father preferred Azula and the sentence he said to him that 'she was born lucky, you were lucky to be born', and at such a young age, made Zuko move away from his father but increased the desire to prove himself before him.

I’ve always viewed Azula to be a sociopath, it seems as though she has no concept of care and love and deep emotions, she genuinely doesn’t understand why Iroh would be so distraught over losing his son that he would leave the war. A part of that does have to do with the parenting as well. Azula is a prodigy when it comes to fighting, strategy and all things war so her father always took a special interest in her. Because of that he pushed Zuko to the side, and Zuko’s mother being the nurturing person she was made sure to show him the love and affection that his father never showed him so he never felt truly alone. It was essentially Azula being “raised” by her father and Zuko by his mother, that would definitely have an impact on both Azula and Zuko’s personalities later in life

This is one of my favorite episodes! Great reaction as always!

Your commentary at 1:20 is pointed because in the first episode I’m pretty sure you said, “Fire nation is evil, got it” after the intro. Glad to see you saw that distinction in the show.

it took me a decade to figure out the Ursa kiled Azulon, seeing you do it on your first watchthrough made me feel stupid AF

I think what happened is that azulon was going to kill zuko to show his father the pain and suffering that he was talking about but zuko's mom killed azulon to stop him and she ran away so she wouldn't be killed, Then zuko's father used that to claim the throne.

there's also the additional layer of the mom being flawed and/or just didn't care about Azula as much as Zuko, or optimistically openly favored Zuko which made Azula retaliate and move to please Dad instead.

the frequent video uploads: 10/10 dedication

Amazed by your commentaries on that. One more subscriber and I'll watch all yours reactions since the beginning. Dude, I wish I was your friend hahaha. Greetings from Brazil 🇧🇷

You break down the show so well!!!! It almost makes me emotional! It’s exactly what I needed lol

Loving your reactions and commentary! I find myself in anticipation of the next ones lol

I'm impressed more and more with your insightfulness in every episode, and I've watched through the series like 3 times as an adult

I haven't finished this video yet (but i do love your format of responding and commenting to things as you watch), and i love love love how perceptive you were to azula's (potential) upbringing and how it shaped her personality that way. it seems that most people don't really think about it until the end if ever during the first watch and a lot of times it takes multiple watches (as in my case). by the way i found your reactions only now after having watched so many channels react to atla (from the hype of the netflix show--i do hope to see your reactions to that when it comes out) and i'm so happy i did. great stuff!!

Love your comments on avatar. Please keep them coming.

I love your commentary good work. I can’t wait for your insight on Azula’s character in book 3 where she was solidified as not only my favorite character of atla but also one of my favorite antagonists in all fiction

Little Note: Did you notice that the dagger is the same which Suko and Iro used to cut of their topknot. Somme simbolism there i think. I know that the topknot was a symbol of the samurai and their honor.

New to your channel, but these Avatar reactions are soooooo good bro! Can’t wait for the next reaction!

Yeah if you remember, Azulon was going to punish Ozai for his transgression against Iroh (saying Ozai should take the throne, not his brother) by forcing him to sacrifice Zuko. So Ursa killed Azulon (probably poisoned him so people wouldn’t suspect anything) and left so that Ozai would take the throne and wouldn’t murder Zuko. That’s why she said everything she’s done, she’s done to protect him. In a way she sort of saved his life, even though she probably couldn’t know with absolute certainty Ozai wouldn’t kill Zuko, considering he sort of hated the poor boy and obviously wanted Azula to claim the throne, not him.

I have watched this series way too many times, and seen reactors with their opinions on it as well, and have never connected with the "two halves of the same whole" to Zuko. It makes a lot of sense! And considering hindsight into the story as well, refering to a future episode....Wow!

Fun fact! Tea includes all 4 elements if you think about it. Water. Leaves from the earth. Heat from fire. And air to cool it down.

They explore Azula later on. Explaining it now would be Abit spoilery. But damn your analysis at the end of the vid was fucking mindboggling. The metaphors of the swords and the foreshadowing of the mom with the duck. Never even thought of that.

@AGoodwinTV

4 жыл бұрын

I would have missed them both if I hadn't had to watch parts of the episode over and over while editing 😂 That always happens but I felt like those two things were too good not to add.

I think Azula was born with a predisposition for psychopathy. Good parenting can help change that, but her father obviously encouraged those traits. Also, I love that you figured out what Ursa did. Too many people don't get it, even with that scene with the turtle ducks.

Wow, your analysis is so good, and this episode is my favourite. ❤

Ozai favor Azula alot so Urssa(mother) gave more attention to Zuko so he wasn't left out of love

Sitting here drunk at 3am bingeing all your videos, i love them all and appreciate your analysis and mind, hope you are well, much love and saftey to you and those around you

This is actually one of my favorite episodes from season 2

One of my all time favorite episodes So amazing

Azusa is the way she is because she is the firebending prodigy so ozai takes way more time with her but also sets up unrealistic expectations that she must always meet. Not to mention generally girls long for ans have a propensity to want to connect with their dads more. Ozai sees his kids as pawns for his game to get ultimate power and azusa is his best asset to help him.

Dude I really appreciate your thoughts on the deeper significance of the story and the effort you share with your audience to filosofically apply your interpretations to real life. That’s made this my favorite reaction series for any show from any KZreadr so far, but it really stuck out to me in this one for a special reason: For as much of the first 20 years of my life as I could have been considered a believer, I was a deeply devoted Christian. My worldview was constructed around truth, love, morality, forgiveness, redemption. I believed every person had good in them and if shown enough love it would bring that out and return their natural desire to be and do good in the world. Some time after losing my faith, I learned that many psychologists have come to believe from fysical, neurological evidence that some people are actually born without proper functioning in te part of the brain that controls empathy, that makes us feel love and altruism. And there are documentaries & news stories of even *children* committing absolutely, abhorrently evil murders. This has been one of many very difficult shocks for me to come to terms with as result of my changing worldview over the years the more I learn. If people can be born literally incapable of feeling love, unable to be redeemed or change, that’s so depressing, and makes me question what it even means to be human. But while it seems to be a real thing as far as I can see so far, my desire is for it to be proven wrong someday. Zuko is one of my favorite characters of all time, one of the best written villains I’ve ever seen. Because he is made so believable. Most real people start innocent and become evil overtime thru suffering pain and losing faith in goodness & love. You can identify with Zuko and see goodness in him. You can believe in hope for a hurting, good soul that lost its way. But I have just been convinced all this time that Azula was simply a textbook psychopath. Born evil due to a neurological defect. Incapable of love or empathy, hyper practical. Cold. But your theory is am alternative that actually makes sense and better explains some things later on, and I prefer to be able to believe someone could hypothetically be redeemed, as you mentioned. And your theory fits better into the cancelled plans the show’s creators had for Book 4 that never got made. So I like that you helped me look at her from a bit different perspective.

Dude you upload vids exactly when I go on my run , I love listening and running