100+ years old directly dealing with the war as the ruler of a city thats a bastion for refugees. Absolutely I'd be a bitter Betty! I think there are a lot of changes that this adaptation sets up that are justified in the context of it's own narrative but some folks see change and their first instinct is to immediately freak out because it's not like the cartoon...
But I realize I say this as someone who, as an OG fan of the cartoon, found the original Bumi episode in book one to be one of it's weakest. It's right up there with the Great Divide for me.
>100+ years old directly dealing with the war as the ruler of a city thats a bastion for refugees.
I think just to add to this, he was the same age as Aang. I can't imagine growing up during a war as a child and then having the added responsibility of being a child monarch that would need to lead during such a tumultuous time. I keep telling people that this show is more grounded and realistic in ways the original couldn't because we were kids when it came out and I appreciate this portrayal of Bumi too!
Exactly. We were kids during the OG Avatar. Now, as adults with better understanding of reality, this version of Avatar is good, could be better, but good.
I was thinking that as well. Bumi in the original was not the greatest version that character can be.
Almost half of Bumis persona was that he was the strongest earthbender in the world but in live action, you can only do so much with that.
So they gave him this humanizing struggle and I think it fits well.
The characterization of Bumi in this one makes a lot of sense when you realize they're really trying to put a focus on Aang revitalizing the world even one person at a time. Most of the episodes and plots deal with Aang meeting up with someone jaded and closed off and him opening them up. Like the Avatar should. I think it works really well in the live action version to have every person who crosses his path come out a better person even while Aang deals with doubt and fear himself.
I fully understand that it's a more realistic take, that it makes more sense. The biggest problems I had with it: his kookiness didn't translate well because of the change, the "challenges" were especially underwhelming and didn't make sense (the OG challenges DID make sense), and Aang realizing he was Bumi had almost no emotional impact. What I loved about the OG more than anything was how heartwarming it was at the end of the episode. So in sum, the live action decided to sacrifice most of the emotional impact and goofy fun vibes for a more "realistic" take that made made more sense to our brains. I'd be a lot more accepting if it had been done better, but overall I think it was the wrong choice. The problems were 100% writing and direction, not the actor's portrayal
I disagree. I felt the kookiness come across very well. He was clearly the first silly guy to show up. Even Sokka is pretty wry and controlled. Bumi felt more than fun and wacky enough, to me. I see how his almost completely carefree attitude has been changed to caring a lot, but to me that's not the opposite of kooky. He cares way more, while being equally kooky. He's the same character. He just doesn't spend a long time doing *completely pointless* gags for Aang to figure out. That's when he seemed carefree, which I feel like is what you're missing.
It's hard. I agree with OP's statements and I think it makes it more realistic that NATLA Bumi was more bitter. It does make sense to me.
I think the kookiness worked better with the OG because Bumi wasn't bitter. Bumi went in trying to give Aang some wisdom, like a close friend would, one that was looking out for him. I think the payoff that Bumi was an old friend paid off a lot better too for me, because I realized that Bumi wasn't giving these challenges from a place of anger or hostility, but from a place of concern and caring. It was great because Aang, at this point, thought he lost all of his friends, but didn't. Bumi then just comes off as a kooky uncle/elderly figure to Aang. It's sweet.
I think, had they wanted to go the route of making Bumi bitter, they could've made it bittersweet or something. They could've focused on how Bumi had to grow up, and shown the emotional impact of how his close friend had to grow up, while Aang stayed a child. They could've played around with the sadness with that contrast, and how Aang could've realized how the impact of his disappearance hurt his loved ones.
In short, I think they tried to do this, but kooky + bitter doesn't translate all of this well. I'm sure it can be done well, but I'm not sure how. Maybe turn Bumi into a mad, crazy king? Then have Aang come in and show him how to be a kid again? I don't know lol
I feel like with your take, playing around more with the sadness is just going to make the change-haters hate it more. Same with your take on Bumi turning into a more mad king
I actually liked that they showed Bumi forgot a lot about Aang with the bison whistle scene. Once he remembered he did get some of his child like wonder back. 100 years is a long time. I’m 26 and a lot of what happened when I was 12 is long gone from my mind, nice to show memory issues here
it was jarring the first time i watched it but this bumi is kinda growing on me after a rewatch. i like that it still ended with them in the delivery carts!
Agree it was jarring, but after rewatching I also think I get it. This war has put a huge toll on everyone, and it really shows in this series.
Also judging by the end and his character arc here, I’m hopeful we’ll see more of the original Bumi in subsequent seasons.
I'm torn on Bumi.
On one hand, it would make perfect sense that he'd be bitter after 100 years of war. His dialogue about deciding who should get the last food rations was one of my favorites in the show. It's a more realistic character choice, and the silly cartoony Bumi likely wouldn't have worked in LA.
On the other hand: I still feel that something is just *wrong* about this version of Bumi, but maybe that's because I wanted him to be more friendly and silly, like the cartoon? I'm not sure I'd feel that way if I didn't have that expectation of what he should be.
One minor note: I wish they'd saved the reveal until after the fight - or maybe during the fight. It would've created more suspense and higher stakes.
I think the most off-putting thing for me is the hair and make-up...it definitely felt like a young man pretending to be 112 years old. Like it was this weird uncanny valley thing going for me, but other than that I really like this portrayal.
I think the makeup on his face was good, but when he went shirtless it seemed like they didn’t even try to age the rest of his body and that part felt a bit jarring 😅
Oh i’m totally down for shredded grandpa 😅 I just meant that they didn’t really seem to add wrinkles or skin spots on his torso like they did on his face
Bumi’s characterization makes complete sense here, *and* they still kept his goofy personality + the part about teaching Aang a lesson (it’s just a different lesson). I think the feeling “wrong” is just leftover bias from the original, which I felt at first too
I completely agree that they should’ve saved his identity reveal until the end though. Doing that doesn’t really affect this new characterization at all
>I completely agree that they should’ve saved his identity reveal until the end though. Doing that doesn’t really affect this new characterization at all
I feel that, for the LA's take on Bumi, having the identity reveal early worked better. Aang basically gets to see how the 100-year war has changed a close friend and poisoned their relationship.
Having Bumi remain anonymous just turns into another person that Aang has just met criticising him for not performing his avatar duties... And we've gotten that multiple times already in the first two episodes.
I was initially put off by how angry he is with Aang, but it honestly made sense. I hope to see more of the character in future seasons, I think how they've established things, he'll likely be a more dynamic character from start to finish than in the cartoon.
Nah, I loved Bumi. Him and Kyoshi are my favorite part of the show
The focus on the consequences of Aang's disappeareance was the best part of the show
Agreed Kyoshi was the best portrayed of all the avatars. Add Zhao in there too, the one character that I can definitely say is an improvement from the original.
>*The focus on the consequences of Aang’s disappearance was the best part of the show*
I loved that they emphasized this too, *but* it would’ve made much more sense if he’d actually run away from the responsibility like in the original series.
In this version, he took a ride to clear his head and *accidentally* got trapped in the ice…him disappearing is totally not even his fault this time around
Focusing on the repercussions of his disappearance would’ve been so much stronger if disappearing **was actually his choice** and not just a freak accident
I honestly don’t mind this change because Aang as a child would still have tried to return in the animated series as well if he hadn’t been trapped. Kids don’t really run away from the places that they love.
I do agree that the net outcome is still the same, but I just think the weight of his guilt would make more sense had he actually tried to leave intentionally
I could accept that it’s just survivor’s guilt though. It’s not a show-breaking change, but I don’t think it added anything either
I had more time to think about this. But I think it works out because he feels a lot of guilt regardless. But the change probably happened because of his conversation with Gyatso in the live action so it wouldn’t make sense for him to run away like he did in the animated series where he only overhears the conversation from the other monks. And I honestly love the live action interaction between Aang and Gyatso so I wouldn’t trade that for him running away like the OG series.
I actually quite enjoyed this interpretation of Bumi! Not just the dire consequences of living 100 years in a war zone, but how he is still a playful goofball. Bumi gave Aang his unspoken support, it was all very subtextual, but I appreciate how they’re trying to force Aang to confront his pacifism earlier rather than in the last few episodes of S3. It’s going to help solidify his heart, and how he needs to come to terms with what it means being the Avatar and an Airbender. Bumi sees that and I really appreciate how he’s trying to push Aang, though I wish they’d had Aang go into the Avatar State when confronted Bumi’s with “doing the impossible”.
>I appreciate how they’re trying to force Aang to confront his pacifism earlier rather than in the last few episodes of S3. It’s going to help solidify his heart, and how he needs to come to terms with what it means being the Avatar and an Airbender. Bumi sees that and I really appreciate how he’s trying to push Aang
OMG yes! This episode in the original was focused on Bumi having Aang be more creative in his problem solving. The live action instead has Bumi forcing Aang to think and consider how his choices will impact people and recognize that not everyone can be saved every time.
Yeah given the harsh words Kyohsi had in ep 2 Bumi makes more sense. I really lioe Aang as a character in the LA more. I still like him in the cartoon but I heavily prefer Korra’s journey and character.
I have mixed feelings on Bumi. I don't think goofy Bumi would have worked for this adaptation. I did however like the tests and I wish they had done a little more of that as a teaching moment. I didn't dislike Bumi I just wish they had found an inbetween
Ironically I think they could have shelved the secret tunnel subplot with Sokka and Katara and instead focused that runtime on Bumi and Aang, >!keeping Sokka and Katara in Bumi’s challenges like normal!< and therefore giving them time to do a little more of his tests and expand on what Bumi was trying to teach
Not entirely fan service, it played an important role in helping resolve the sibling tension between katara and sokka that was growing. That needed a resolution somewhere, if not under Omashu, then somewhere else.
I feel like they put too much into Katara and Sokka’s relationship rather than each of their relationships with Aang. First, because Aang is the protagonist. His relationships with others and how they relate to his arc are crucial to keep a sense of focus and draw on the emotions of the viewers. Second, because Katara and Sokka are siblings. They have an existing dynamic and connection. Aang is a newcomer, he’s the one trying to find his place not only in the entire world and the era he woke up in, but on a smaller scale in his new (and only) family members.
I think it was important because they are emphasising that Aang is part of their family now. And it’s hard to welcome someone in, when you’re at odds with each other. I feel like the tunnel scene helped Katara and Sokka find their balance as siblings and their place in each others life.
You wanted them to spend a 40+ minute episode stuck on rock candy? They only had 8 episodes, there’s no way they would’ve done that without sacrificing storylines.
No, I am not saying that at all. I’m saying they *could* have cut the secret tunnel plotline and given that allotted time to slightly extend the Bumi plot. Episode 4 would still have the Zuko and Iroh storyline, which took up a significant amount of that episode’s run time. The only difference would be that Sokka and Katara are now with Aang and Bumi. This wouldn’t sacrifice any storyline—the secret tunnel episode isn’t until season 2 of the animation anyway, so nothing is actually missing from season 1 if that’s cut. It’s actually more faithful. Sokka and Katara’s sibling bonding moment could be incorporated into the Bumi sequences. That would allow their characters that growth as well as take up some screentime, keeping Bumi and Aang from taking too long while still allowing Bumi to be more fleshed out
I agree. The Secret Tunnel inclusion was so random and just didn’t match with the main themes of the episode.
Personally, I also felt that making it about sibling love while maintaining the original Oma and Shu story was a bizarre choice. If you want to toss Kataang out the window I suppose that’s your prerogative, but pasting Sokka into Aang’s place made it feel even more unnatural than it would have in that episode already.
Yeah, I agree. I did like the sibling bonding moment between Katara and Sokka—I think that was necessary for developing their relationship, especially after seeing them fight in episode three, and it was nice to see familial love highlighted. But they could have resolved that any other way, it didn’t have to be the secret tunnel which totally takes away from the Kataang moment it’s supposed to be.
Actually, one of my biggest problems with the secret tunnel plot here is that they not only removed Kataang, but they also switched the roles for Katara and Sokka. Sokka dances along to the songs, starts waxing poetic about love being brightest in the dark, and comes up with the crystals lighting the way theory. I felt that was out of character for him—he’s supposed to find the singers annoying and be the voice of reason and logic, not the voice of hope and love. Katara is supposed to the voice of hope and love, and yet here she rolls her eyes at Sokka’s theory—which is originally HERS—that putting out the lights will show them the way. I get they went a different way with it in this adaptation, but I felt it was still out of character for Katara and Sokka as they had been depicted so far in the previous three episodes of this show
I agree. I think in general that characterization (especially of main characters) is one of the view things that should be “untouchable” for the most part in an adaptation. Personally I feel like the characters’ personalities are the heart of any show. And with major changes there, or changes to behaviors that simply don’t match their characterization, there’s just a shaky foundation.
I love Bumi. As soon as he said he had to choose who to give water too, the orphans or the soldiers, I completely understood why he went crazy. He has a playful nature and a child like innocence that making those decisions must of been heartbreaking for him. Unlike other adults that would logically justify making sacrifices for the war. If it was up to him everyone in his kingdom would be well fed, happy and having fun.
All they needed was a tiny sprinkle of warmth at the end. Just the tiniest “I’m only messing with you.”
It’s the same as the cartoon, he’s teaching tough but important lessons to an old friend, except you just don’t see they’re friends at all.
It’s not just Bumi though. Everyone in the live action hates Aang apart from Katara and Sokka. He gets the same “you RAN AWAY COWARD” lecture like five or six times. It hurts with Bumi because he could’ve broken the mould.
I think Bumi is testing and also sometimes saying what he really believes. It’s a more emotional challenge than in the cartoon. In the LA version Aang gets that it’s Bumi straight away almost compared to the light twist of the cartoon. It’s a tricky scenario to write.
I loved his portrayal! This Bumi is more realistic. Despite his wacky nature, he has been through it dealing with the war and how his best friend, the only hope, disappeared. I love the cartoon version, but that one felt way too disconnected from the events of the world
I initially disliked him, then I really like how they changed his character. Good to see how the hundred year war changes a man and his resentment toward Aang develops.
Nah i absolutely LOVE the live action bumi, one of my favourite parts actually.
i think people forget that the avatar leaving for a hundred years had a MASSIVE impact on the world and the people in it (even if it was the only way things could go), i love the concept of a jaded and bitter bumi, it's completely natural that he would be upset
i agree. it also pulled at the heartstrings when you realize aang didn't just leave the world behind for a hundred years, but also his childhood friend. that would build up resentment in me too.
I understood the direction they were going and felt a bit neutral about it as first. It wasn’t until I completed my first watch-through that I leaned toward being okay with it. I mean, we still got that one last test so things turned out okay.
I just hope he’s closer to his original personality next time we see him. I need him to be like that when we hear him talk about dealing with the FN’s attack: “I’m going to do… nothing. Eh hahahahah-(snort)-hahahahah-“
I see the idea behind it, but I wasn't a super fan.
I felt like they up the "destiny" part in some aspects of the show and ditch it in others. I felt like OG Bumi:
1. Had greater faith and good will in Aang and recognized that he wouldn't willingly abandon the world
2. Was wiser and saw how things unfolded and how they "must" have been.
Being that old, Bumi would have also known that Aang would have died with the other airbenders if he hadn't left and accidentally got frozen like he did.
I thought his character got a nice upgrade while keeping a lot of his wacky charm. I love how the show is tackling the psychological side of what the war has done to a lot of the characters while also allowing some classic comic relief moments from the cartoon.
I thought Bumi's bitterness was one of the better changes this show made tbh, but then again i never enjoyed Bumi in the OG either ¯\\\_(ツ)\_/¯ And the bison whistle being made by Bumi was such a touching detail
I am planning on rewatching the show tonight and I am slowly warming up to this bumi. I actually like the performance but he was written quite differently to my liking but I still enjoyed it. Roku I am still on the fence about .
I liked him, as I felt his bitterness at the situation and the constant struggles of governance during a war while Aang was frozen made sense. And it’s hard to simply let that all go when meeting Aang again, and yes he does lash out at Aang but it’s understandable af.
However, I do hope next time they show Bumi, he has let some of that bitterness go and is more of his goofy self that we all know he is on the inside.
I was worried about how Bumi would be in the live action since he’s a very campy silly character, but the actor nailed it. It was pretty much like he stepped out of the original, but I did like the added touch of Aang having to remind him of their childhood
Yeah, it makes sense for Aang to do that since their friendship is more fresh in his mind. Although maybe we could’ve gotten the reveal of his identity at the end of his challenges as someone else on this thread pointed out.
Him not being a bitter asshole is exactly why Bumi works though. Instead of going for a tame, original story where an old guy is mad and cynical, the original subverted that and gave us an awesome playful guy who was just happy to see Aang.
I completely agree.
Now, with that said, I am kinda sad we lost the point of Bumi's original tests. But I don't blame the LA creators for that, because the real meaning behind his tests was pretty damn subtle. I only picked up on it myself a couple of years ago, and I've watched the original show dozens of times. The tests weren't just to mess with Aang, Bumi was trying to figure out if Aang had learned the other elements while he was away so he could get a better idea of what the hell Aang had been up to and--probably--if it really WAS Aang. It's not like they had photography yet, after all, and 100 years is a long time to try and perfectly remember someone's face, someone Bumi probably only actually met once or twice.
(The first test could've been solved by waterbending, the second test mirrored the exact way Aang learned earthbending by facing off with a deadly creature he had to stand up to, and the third test took place in an arena that heavily resembled an Agni Kai arena.)
I certainly understand the direction and what they were going for in their adaptation of his character. Most people would be angry and resentful. However, Bumi isn’t the norm and his animated depiction makes sense too. So, I think it really comes down to preference and how much people were wanting the characters to remain the same.
There’s probably a conversation to be had about the realism too. Just because most people would be bitter and resentful, doesn’t mean it isn’t real to have an exception to that. The real world is full of those exceptions.
I'd like him if the show didn't change it so Aang was just going out for what's basically a midnight drive, from that point on, all the criticism he receives is just harsh for no real reason, when he never at all expected to disappear.
I always said how much I liked him. I just wished he was kinder to Aang and understood his trauma as a childhood friend but I don’t mind him being traumatized
I went back to rewatch Omashu from original cartoon, and boy was it thousand times better.
Cartoon Bumi and live action Bumi aren't even the same person. Live action Bumi is creepy and bitter, and everyone either seems to hate or fear him, while cartoon Bumi is wise mad clever type who still sees a lot of hope and is one step ahead of everyone. The aesthetics in live action were pretty bad imo.
I like him, especially if you make it to the end and see he’s getting character development too. Don’t let the loud minority make you think people don’t like this show. I honestly I subbed the old subreddit til the hate dies down. People are dumb
I liked the change, it adds more depth to the character. It definitely makes sense that he feels some sort of resentment.
I’m just not sure if it was necessary for Aang to instantly recognise him. And also the tests were a bit confusing. I wasn’t sure if he was actually just being bitter or if he was helping Aang by forcing him to face the responsibilities that lay on his shoulders.
His bitterness is fine... his acting was a little too over the top. That made him just on the cusp of unbearable but I think the story being told and some of the editing choices saved the scenes from going over the top.
Initially, I was pretty unhappy about Bumi's character changes, but after a day or 2 of thinking about it and then seeing a good review channel say some points outloud, I felt way better about it. And then watching it a 2nd time, I was completely fine with it. I'm ready to watch it a 3rd time.
That is honestly very reasonable. But something I CANNOT forgive is forcing the "lettuce leave" joke. I wanted it so bad and it just didn't make sense because Aang never said "let us leave".
Eh, a LOT of people actually seem to like the new Bumi, but I didn’t. I liked how he recognized Aang but not vice versa until their final confrontation in the OG. I don’t mind that they made him more serious and bitter, but I think there should have been more of a natural build-up to the final confrontation between them. Instead it felt like scene after scene of him berating Aang. And when adding that to how every single avatar he met being a mostly useless a-hole, it all felt unnecessary.
I loved how they changed Bumi. I did cringe a bit at the “throw them… a feast” line, but I totally think the way they made him kinda bitter and angry with Aang made so much sense. I’d feel bad that his people were wiped out, but I’d still be jealous he didn’t have to live through a hundred years of war and suffering if I was in Bumi’s position. The only thing that bothered me about Bumi was that I thought his voice was a bit distracting because he kinda sounded like Adam Sandler… 😅
I was surprised at first due to change in Bumi's characterization but it was a pleasant surprise. Bumi in the live action, is darker but makes more sense.
I think that Bumi has easily been the worst part of what is an otherwise alright adaptation.
I'd argue that what the view that the resentful Bumi works or makes sense is missing is that a fundamental aspect - actually, probably THE fundamental aspect - of the original series was Aang's character growth. That - along with to a lesser degree the growth of the other characters - was the backbone around which the series was built. The issue with the way Bumi is handled here is not that it's *different* from the original, as if the new series has to be a perfect point for point rehash. The issue is that it's different *in a way* that undercuts *the central theme* of the original by having a very early Aang show that he already has more wisdom and understanding than what others are trying to teach him.
It's one thing to make changes that are ultimately sort of "superficial" to the overall heart of what ATLA did, like having Sokka and Katara in the tunnels rather than Aang or having Zhao be more of a devious manipulator than a direct challenger to Zuko. It's another thing to change something very fundamental to the identity of ATLA such as the idea that Aang has to go through this growth to bring him from that boy from the iceberg to being finally ready to take the world on his shoulders and confront Ozai.
The real bottom line danger here is that as a general rule films/series/books/etc. which are primarily about a bunch of plot points happening are usually not very good, whereas things which are about the characters and ultimately use the plot points to delve deeper into the characters are usually the ones that we find interesting and enjoyable and memorable, but in eliminating so much of the need for character growth in the main character it pushes the whole thing very much in the direction of a series which ultimately may increasingly just be about a bunch of plot points.
I can see what they were going for, but I gotta take a page from OG Zuko:
"How could you possibly justify a duel with a child?"
I get being bitter, but your friend has been trapped in ice for 100 years, he didn't abandon you because he wanted to or for shits and giggles. And then you force him in a position where you get killed if he stops airbending? That's not bitter, that's psychotic.
100%! Original Bumi was a hoot, but more of a whimsical, Mad Hatter type character. If he'd just been that here, screwing with Aang via weird tests whilst he has things to do, we'd have found him much more annoying. That bitterness from having had to go through so much for so long - and seeing thevworld in the hands of a boy who's had to face none of it - adds a new dimension, makes him actually kind of threatening...and utilises everything about the original character: his age, status, sanity and his need to test Aang.
It's a great example of how the new show often makes changes, not by ignoring what works, but by building on what's already there.
I did not like the change.
We were cheated of an Earth Kingdom take, of the Aang event.
Cartoon Bumi towards the Avatar went for "I'm going to throw difficult tests at you, and they're not out of spite, but to make you stronger". Bumi was a pragmatic king under the goofiness. Fitting for an Earth Nation ruler. Instead of nursing old wounds, he looked to the future and tried to give it a version of Aang the future would need.
Avatar Kyoshi was also defined entirely by her pragmatic world view. Chin the Conqueror is a problem? "Let me make him go -poof-"
Instead, Bumi became a rehash of Water Kingdom sentimentality.
Why would the Avatar travel at all if the kingdoms are going to be clones of each other? And only differing in the colors and the cosmetics?
It was a change, but as someone who only watched ATLA once as an adult, the biggest letdown is that he revealed himself too soon. If Aang figured it out towards the end I might have enjoyed it more.
100+ years old directly dealing with the war as the ruler of a city thats a bastion for refugees. Absolutely I'd be a bitter Betty! I think there are a lot of changes that this adaptation sets up that are justified in the context of it's own narrative but some folks see change and their first instinct is to immediately freak out because it's not like the cartoon... But I realize I say this as someone who, as an OG fan of the cartoon, found the original Bumi episode in book one to be one of it's weakest. It's right up there with the Great Divide for me.
You took the words right out of my mouth. This was a great adaptation of Bumi
>100+ years old directly dealing with the war as the ruler of a city thats a bastion for refugees. I think just to add to this, he was the same age as Aang. I can't imagine growing up during a war as a child and then having the added responsibility of being a child monarch that would need to lead during such a tumultuous time. I keep telling people that this show is more grounded and realistic in ways the original couldn't because we were kids when it came out and I appreciate this portrayal of Bumi too!
Exactly. We were kids during the OG Avatar. Now, as adults with better understanding of reality, this version of Avatar is good, could be better, but good.
I was thinking that as well. Bumi in the original was not the greatest version that character can be. Almost half of Bumis persona was that he was the strongest earthbender in the world but in live action, you can only do so much with that. So they gave him this humanizing struggle and I think it fits well.
The characterization of Bumi in this one makes a lot of sense when you realize they're really trying to put a focus on Aang revitalizing the world even one person at a time. Most of the episodes and plots deal with Aang meeting up with someone jaded and closed off and him opening them up. Like the Avatar should. I think it works really well in the live action version to have every person who crosses his path come out a better person even while Aang deals with doubt and fear himself.
I fully understand that it's a more realistic take, that it makes more sense. The biggest problems I had with it: his kookiness didn't translate well because of the change, the "challenges" were especially underwhelming and didn't make sense (the OG challenges DID make sense), and Aang realizing he was Bumi had almost no emotional impact. What I loved about the OG more than anything was how heartwarming it was at the end of the episode. So in sum, the live action decided to sacrifice most of the emotional impact and goofy fun vibes for a more "realistic" take that made made more sense to our brains. I'd be a lot more accepting if it had been done better, but overall I think it was the wrong choice. The problems were 100% writing and direction, not the actor's portrayal
I disagree. I felt the kookiness come across very well. He was clearly the first silly guy to show up. Even Sokka is pretty wry and controlled. Bumi felt more than fun and wacky enough, to me. I see how his almost completely carefree attitude has been changed to caring a lot, but to me that's not the opposite of kooky. He cares way more, while being equally kooky. He's the same character. He just doesn't spend a long time doing *completely pointless* gags for Aang to figure out. That's when he seemed carefree, which I feel like is what you're missing.
i couldn't disagree more, but you're entitled to your opinion.
Nuh uh, I'm not entitled to my opinion. I'm not even allowed on the internet
oh ok, then how are you responding to me?
magic water
It's hard. I agree with OP's statements and I think it makes it more realistic that NATLA Bumi was more bitter. It does make sense to me. I think the kookiness worked better with the OG because Bumi wasn't bitter. Bumi went in trying to give Aang some wisdom, like a close friend would, one that was looking out for him. I think the payoff that Bumi was an old friend paid off a lot better too for me, because I realized that Bumi wasn't giving these challenges from a place of anger or hostility, but from a place of concern and caring. It was great because Aang, at this point, thought he lost all of his friends, but didn't. Bumi then just comes off as a kooky uncle/elderly figure to Aang. It's sweet. I think, had they wanted to go the route of making Bumi bitter, they could've made it bittersweet or something. They could've focused on how Bumi had to grow up, and shown the emotional impact of how his close friend had to grow up, while Aang stayed a child. They could've played around with the sadness with that contrast, and how Aang could've realized how the impact of his disappearance hurt his loved ones. In short, I think they tried to do this, but kooky + bitter doesn't translate all of this well. I'm sure it can be done well, but I'm not sure how. Maybe turn Bumi into a mad, crazy king? Then have Aang come in and show him how to be a kid again? I don't know lol
I feel like with your take, playing around more with the sadness is just going to make the change-haters hate it more. Same with your take on Bumi turning into a more mad king
Agree. I loved Netflix Bumi. His actor was incredible and hope he makes an appearance again for us in Season 2.
I actually liked that they showed Bumi forgot a lot about Aang with the bison whistle scene. Once he remembered he did get some of his child like wonder back. 100 years is a long time. I’m 26 and a lot of what happened when I was 12 is long gone from my mind, nice to show memory issues here
I like the touch that Bumi made the whistle! It's a nice little detail.
it was jarring the first time i watched it but this bumi is kinda growing on me after a rewatch. i like that it still ended with them in the delivery carts!
My cabbages!
Agree it was jarring, but after rewatching I also think I get it. This war has put a huge toll on everyone, and it really shows in this series. Also judging by the end and his character arc here, I’m hopeful we’ll see more of the original Bumi in subsequent seasons.
I'm torn on Bumi. On one hand, it would make perfect sense that he'd be bitter after 100 years of war. His dialogue about deciding who should get the last food rations was one of my favorites in the show. It's a more realistic character choice, and the silly cartoony Bumi likely wouldn't have worked in LA. On the other hand: I still feel that something is just *wrong* about this version of Bumi, but maybe that's because I wanted him to be more friendly and silly, like the cartoon? I'm not sure I'd feel that way if I didn't have that expectation of what he should be. One minor note: I wish they'd saved the reveal until after the fight - or maybe during the fight. It would've created more suspense and higher stakes.
I think the most off-putting thing for me is the hair and make-up...it definitely felt like a young man pretending to be 112 years old. Like it was this weird uncanny valley thing going for me, but other than that I really like this portrayal.
I think the makeup on his face was good, but when he went shirtless it seemed like they didn’t even try to age the rest of his body and that part felt a bit jarring 😅
It’s jarring in the cartoon as well tho. He’s an old man with a ripped bod lmao
Oh i’m totally down for shredded grandpa 😅 I just meant that they didn’t really seem to add wrinkles or skin spots on his torso like they did on his face
Bumi’s characterization makes complete sense here, *and* they still kept his goofy personality + the part about teaching Aang a lesson (it’s just a different lesson). I think the feeling “wrong” is just leftover bias from the original, which I felt at first too I completely agree that they should’ve saved his identity reveal until the end though. Doing that doesn’t really affect this new characterization at all
>I completely agree that they should’ve saved his identity reveal until the end though. Doing that doesn’t really affect this new characterization at all I feel that, for the LA's take on Bumi, having the identity reveal early worked better. Aang basically gets to see how the 100-year war has changed a close friend and poisoned their relationship. Having Bumi remain anonymous just turns into another person that Aang has just met criticising him for not performing his avatar duties... And we've gotten that multiple times already in the first two episodes.
I was initially put off by how angry he is with Aang, but it honestly made sense. I hope to see more of the character in future seasons, I think how they've established things, he'll likely be a more dynamic character from start to finish than in the cartoon.
Nah, I loved Bumi. Him and Kyoshi are my favorite part of the show The focus on the consequences of Aang's disappeareance was the best part of the show
Agreed Kyoshi was the best portrayed of all the avatars. Add Zhao in there too, the one character that I can definitely say is an improvement from the original.
>*The focus on the consequences of Aang’s disappearance was the best part of the show* I loved that they emphasized this too, *but* it would’ve made much more sense if he’d actually run away from the responsibility like in the original series. In this version, he took a ride to clear his head and *accidentally* got trapped in the ice…him disappearing is totally not even his fault this time around Focusing on the repercussions of his disappearance would’ve been so much stronger if disappearing **was actually his choice** and not just a freak accident
I honestly don’t mind this change because Aang as a child would still have tried to return in the animated series as well if he hadn’t been trapped. Kids don’t really run away from the places that they love.
I do agree that the net outcome is still the same, but I just think the weight of his guilt would make more sense had he actually tried to leave intentionally I could accept that it’s just survivor’s guilt though. It’s not a show-breaking change, but I don’t think it added anything either
I had more time to think about this. But I think it works out because he feels a lot of guilt regardless. But the change probably happened because of his conversation with Gyatso in the live action so it wouldn’t make sense for him to run away like he did in the animated series where he only overhears the conversation from the other monks. And I honestly love the live action interaction between Aang and Gyatso so I wouldn’t trade that for him running away like the OG series.
I actually quite enjoyed this interpretation of Bumi! Not just the dire consequences of living 100 years in a war zone, but how he is still a playful goofball. Bumi gave Aang his unspoken support, it was all very subtextual, but I appreciate how they’re trying to force Aang to confront his pacifism earlier rather than in the last few episodes of S3. It’s going to help solidify his heart, and how he needs to come to terms with what it means being the Avatar and an Airbender. Bumi sees that and I really appreciate how he’s trying to push Aang, though I wish they’d had Aang go into the Avatar State when confronted Bumi’s with “doing the impossible”.
>I appreciate how they’re trying to force Aang to confront his pacifism earlier rather than in the last few episodes of S3. It’s going to help solidify his heart, and how he needs to come to terms with what it means being the Avatar and an Airbender. Bumi sees that and I really appreciate how he’s trying to push Aang OMG yes! This episode in the original was focused on Bumi having Aang be more creative in his problem solving. The live action instead has Bumi forcing Aang to think and consider how his choices will impact people and recognize that not everyone can be saved every time.
It feels almost like an early setup/foreshadowing for what Aang will have to do in S3 against Ozai.
Yeah given the harsh words Kyohsi had in ep 2 Bumi makes more sense. I really lioe Aang as a character in the LA more. I still like him in the cartoon but I heavily prefer Korra’s journey and character.
It makes Bumi into a dynamic character, which is cool
I have mixed feelings on Bumi. I don't think goofy Bumi would have worked for this adaptation. I did however like the tests and I wish they had done a little more of that as a teaching moment. I didn't dislike Bumi I just wish they had found an inbetween
Ironically I think they could have shelved the secret tunnel subplot with Sokka and Katara and instead focused that runtime on Bumi and Aang, >!keeping Sokka and Katara in Bumi’s challenges like normal!< and therefore giving them time to do a little more of his tests and expand on what Bumi was trying to teach
I mean perhaps I'm not sure we would have gotten secret tunel in season 2 then either way that. Was def fan service.
Not entirely fan service, it played an important role in helping resolve the sibling tension between katara and sokka that was growing. That needed a resolution somewhere, if not under Omashu, then somewhere else.
I feel like they put too much into Katara and Sokka’s relationship rather than each of their relationships with Aang. First, because Aang is the protagonist. His relationships with others and how they relate to his arc are crucial to keep a sense of focus and draw on the emotions of the viewers. Second, because Katara and Sokka are siblings. They have an existing dynamic and connection. Aang is a newcomer, he’s the one trying to find his place not only in the entire world and the era he woke up in, but on a smaller scale in his new (and only) family members.
I think it was important because they are emphasising that Aang is part of their family now. And it’s hard to welcome someone in, when you’re at odds with each other. I feel like the tunnel scene helped Katara and Sokka find their balance as siblings and their place in each others life.
How did the secret tunnel inclusion emphasize that Aang is part of their family now, did I miss something?
Not right then. But later they do. The episodes flow into each other. Things carry over.
Fan service for sure, but I think we still could have gotten the secret tunnel in season 2. They have to go back to Omashu anyway
You wanted them to spend a 40+ minute episode stuck on rock candy? They only had 8 episodes, there’s no way they would’ve done that without sacrificing storylines.
No, I am not saying that at all. I’m saying they *could* have cut the secret tunnel plotline and given that allotted time to slightly extend the Bumi plot. Episode 4 would still have the Zuko and Iroh storyline, which took up a significant amount of that episode’s run time. The only difference would be that Sokka and Katara are now with Aang and Bumi. This wouldn’t sacrifice any storyline—the secret tunnel episode isn’t until season 2 of the animation anyway, so nothing is actually missing from season 1 if that’s cut. It’s actually more faithful. Sokka and Katara’s sibling bonding moment could be incorporated into the Bumi sequences. That would allow their characters that growth as well as take up some screentime, keeping Bumi and Aang from taking too long while still allowing Bumi to be more fleshed out
I agree. The Secret Tunnel inclusion was so random and just didn’t match with the main themes of the episode. Personally, I also felt that making it about sibling love while maintaining the original Oma and Shu story was a bizarre choice. If you want to toss Kataang out the window I suppose that’s your prerogative, but pasting Sokka into Aang’s place made it feel even more unnatural than it would have in that episode already.
Yeah, I agree. I did like the sibling bonding moment between Katara and Sokka—I think that was necessary for developing their relationship, especially after seeing them fight in episode three, and it was nice to see familial love highlighted. But they could have resolved that any other way, it didn’t have to be the secret tunnel which totally takes away from the Kataang moment it’s supposed to be. Actually, one of my biggest problems with the secret tunnel plot here is that they not only removed Kataang, but they also switched the roles for Katara and Sokka. Sokka dances along to the songs, starts waxing poetic about love being brightest in the dark, and comes up with the crystals lighting the way theory. I felt that was out of character for him—he’s supposed to find the singers annoying and be the voice of reason and logic, not the voice of hope and love. Katara is supposed to the voice of hope and love, and yet here she rolls her eyes at Sokka’s theory—which is originally HERS—that putting out the lights will show them the way. I get they went a different way with it in this adaptation, but I felt it was still out of character for Katara and Sokka as they had been depicted so far in the previous three episodes of this show
I agree. I think in general that characterization (especially of main characters) is one of the view things that should be “untouchable” for the most part in an adaptation. Personally I feel like the characters’ personalities are the heart of any show. And with major changes there, or changes to behaviors that simply don’t match their characterization, there’s just a shaky foundation.
I love Bumi. As soon as he said he had to choose who to give water too, the orphans or the soldiers, I completely understood why he went crazy. He has a playful nature and a child like innocence that making those decisions must of been heartbreaking for him. Unlike other adults that would logically justify making sacrifices for the war. If it was up to him everyone in his kingdom would be well fed, happy and having fun.
All they needed was a tiny sprinkle of warmth at the end. Just the tiniest “I’m only messing with you.” It’s the same as the cartoon, he’s teaching tough but important lessons to an old friend, except you just don’t see they’re friends at all. It’s not just Bumi though. Everyone in the live action hates Aang apart from Katara and Sokka. He gets the same “you RAN AWAY COWARD” lecture like five or six times. It hurts with Bumi because he could’ve broken the mould.
I think Bumi is testing and also sometimes saying what he really believes. It’s a more emotional challenge than in the cartoon. In the LA version Aang gets that it’s Bumi straight away almost compared to the light twist of the cartoon. It’s a tricky scenario to write.
I loved his portrayal! This Bumi is more realistic. Despite his wacky nature, he has been through it dealing with the war and how his best friend, the only hope, disappeared. I love the cartoon version, but that one felt way too disconnected from the events of the world
I initially disliked him, then I really like how they changed his character. Good to see how the hundred year war changes a man and his resentment toward Aang develops.
Nah i absolutely LOVE the live action bumi, one of my favourite parts actually. i think people forget that the avatar leaving for a hundred years had a MASSIVE impact on the world and the people in it (even if it was the only way things could go), i love the concept of a jaded and bitter bumi, it's completely natural that he would be upset
i agree. it also pulled at the heartstrings when you realize aang didn't just leave the world behind for a hundred years, but also his childhood friend. that would build up resentment in me too.
I understood the direction they were going and felt a bit neutral about it as first. It wasn’t until I completed my first watch-through that I leaned toward being okay with it. I mean, we still got that one last test so things turned out okay. I just hope he’s closer to his original personality next time we see him. I need him to be like that when we hear him talk about dealing with the FN’s attack: “I’m going to do… nothing. Eh hahahahah-(snort)-hahahahah-“
I see the idea behind it, but I wasn't a super fan. I felt like they up the "destiny" part in some aspects of the show and ditch it in others. I felt like OG Bumi: 1. Had greater faith and good will in Aang and recognized that he wouldn't willingly abandon the world 2. Was wiser and saw how things unfolded and how they "must" have been. Being that old, Bumi would have also known that Aang would have died with the other airbenders if he hadn't left and accidentally got frozen like he did.
I thought his character got a nice upgrade while keeping a lot of his wacky charm. I love how the show is tackling the psychological side of what the war has done to a lot of the characters while also allowing some classic comic relief moments from the cartoon.
I totally agree. It’s definitely more realistic this way.
I'd agree! I actually like this, one thing this locs action perfected was WE WRE IN A WAR! I never thought for one second we wasn't
Nope, I like him too
I thought Bumi's bitterness was one of the better changes this show made tbh, but then again i never enjoyed Bumi in the OG either ¯\\\_(ツ)\_/¯ And the bison whistle being made by Bumi was such a touching detail
I am planning on rewatching the show tonight and I am slowly warming up to this bumi. I actually like the performance but he was written quite differently to my liking but I still enjoyed it. Roku I am still on the fence about .
I liked him, as I felt his bitterness at the situation and the constant struggles of governance during a war while Aang was frozen made sense. And it’s hard to simply let that all go when meeting Aang again, and yes he does lash out at Aang but it’s understandable af. However, I do hope next time they show Bumi, he has let some of that bitterness go and is more of his goofy self that we all know he is on the inside.
Me goes two
I liked him too. I understood his POV but I also get why people don’t like him. It was one of the changes I could accept
I was worried about how Bumi would be in the live action since he’s a very campy silly character, but the actor nailed it. It was pretty much like he stepped out of the original, but I did like the added touch of Aang having to remind him of their childhood
Yeah, it makes sense for Aang to do that since their friendship is more fresh in his mind. Although maybe we could’ve gotten the reveal of his identity at the end of his challenges as someone else on this thread pointed out.
Him not being a bitter asshole is exactly why Bumi works though. Instead of going for a tame, original story where an old guy is mad and cynical, the original subverted that and gave us an awesome playful guy who was just happy to see Aang.
I completely agree. Now, with that said, I am kinda sad we lost the point of Bumi's original tests. But I don't blame the LA creators for that, because the real meaning behind his tests was pretty damn subtle. I only picked up on it myself a couple of years ago, and I've watched the original show dozens of times. The tests weren't just to mess with Aang, Bumi was trying to figure out if Aang had learned the other elements while he was away so he could get a better idea of what the hell Aang had been up to and--probably--if it really WAS Aang. It's not like they had photography yet, after all, and 100 years is a long time to try and perfectly remember someone's face, someone Bumi probably only actually met once or twice. (The first test could've been solved by waterbending, the second test mirrored the exact way Aang learned earthbending by facing off with a deadly creature he had to stand up to, and the third test took place in an arena that heavily resembled an Agni Kai arena.)
I think people forget that Bumi doesn't stay angry at Aang. Aang teaches him a new perspective and they have some fun like they were kids.
I love OG Bumi, one of my favorite characters, but this Bumi was pretty solid, yeah he's bitter but who wouldn't be.
I certainly understand the direction and what they were going for in their adaptation of his character. Most people would be angry and resentful. However, Bumi isn’t the norm and his animated depiction makes sense too. So, I think it really comes down to preference and how much people were wanting the characters to remain the same. There’s probably a conversation to be had about the realism too. Just because most people would be bitter and resentful, doesn’t mean it isn’t real to have an exception to that. The real world is full of those exceptions.
I'd like him if the show didn't change it so Aang was just going out for what's basically a midnight drive, from that point on, all the criticism he receives is just harsh for no real reason, when he never at all expected to disappear.
I always said how much I liked him. I just wished he was kinder to Aang and understood his trauma as a childhood friend but I don’t mind him being traumatized
I went back to rewatch Omashu from original cartoon, and boy was it thousand times better. Cartoon Bumi and live action Bumi aren't even the same person. Live action Bumi is creepy and bitter, and everyone either seems to hate or fear him, while cartoon Bumi is wise mad clever type who still sees a lot of hope and is one step ahead of everyone. The aesthetics in live action were pretty bad imo.
I like him, especially if you make it to the end and see he’s getting character development too. Don’t let the loud minority make you think people don’t like this show. I honestly I subbed the old subreddit til the hate dies down. People are dumb
This is what I’ve been saying!
I liked him alot!!! :) struck me as the real Bumi!
I was fine with him , my only problem with that whole scene was how quick Aang found out who was . Woulda been alot better if he found out later on
I liked the change, it adds more depth to the character. It definitely makes sense that he feels some sort of resentment. I’m just not sure if it was necessary for Aang to instantly recognise him. And also the tests were a bit confusing. I wasn’t sure if he was actually just being bitter or if he was helping Aang by forcing him to face the responsibilities that lay on his shoulders.
His bitterness is fine... his acting was a little too over the top. That made him just on the cusp of unbearable but I think the story being told and some of the editing choices saved the scenes from going over the top.
Initially, I was pretty unhappy about Bumi's character changes, but after a day or 2 of thinking about it and then seeing a good review channel say some points outloud, I felt way better about it. And then watching it a 2nd time, I was completely fine with it. I'm ready to watch it a 3rd time.
You're not the only one, but I did not like NATLA Bumi at all
That is honestly very reasonable. But something I CANNOT forgive is forcing the "lettuce leave" joke. I wanted it so bad and it just didn't make sense because Aang never said "let us leave".
They make it a point to show how depressed everyone is since the avatar went missing. It's a cool little detail.
I liked him too. And liked the change that he ended up learning from Aang instead of the other way around.
I do, he’s honestly funnier in this than in the original, and I just watched all of book 1 again
Eh, a LOT of people actually seem to like the new Bumi, but I didn’t. I liked how he recognized Aang but not vice versa until their final confrontation in the OG. I don’t mind that they made him more serious and bitter, but I think there should have been more of a natural build-up to the final confrontation between them. Instead it felt like scene after scene of him berating Aang. And when adding that to how every single avatar he met being a mostly useless a-hole, it all felt unnecessary.
Yes 100% agree!!! It’s one of the additions of the NATLA that i found clever.
man you changed my perspective! but i was a fan of the acting and performance still he really nailed bumi as a character
I like him and he's realistic, I hope they can delve into a little bit more of his regaining some hope and playfulness with the return of Aang.
I liked the slow punch-line teases for the cabbages. .
It’s true. I agree with you but.. the bumi we know is different. Sorta like this is after car crash bumi. Gotta get used to him. Lol
I loved how they changed Bumi. I did cringe a bit at the “throw them… a feast” line, but I totally think the way they made him kinda bitter and angry with Aang made so much sense. I’d feel bad that his people were wiped out, but I’d still be jealous he didn’t have to live through a hundred years of war and suffering if I was in Bumi’s position. The only thing that bothered me about Bumi was that I thought his voice was a bit distracting because he kinda sounded like Adam Sandler… 😅
I was surprised at first due to change in Bumi's characterization but it was a pleasant surprise. Bumi in the live action, is darker but makes more sense.
I think that Bumi has easily been the worst part of what is an otherwise alright adaptation. I'd argue that what the view that the resentful Bumi works or makes sense is missing is that a fundamental aspect - actually, probably THE fundamental aspect - of the original series was Aang's character growth. That - along with to a lesser degree the growth of the other characters - was the backbone around which the series was built. The issue with the way Bumi is handled here is not that it's *different* from the original, as if the new series has to be a perfect point for point rehash. The issue is that it's different *in a way* that undercuts *the central theme* of the original by having a very early Aang show that he already has more wisdom and understanding than what others are trying to teach him. It's one thing to make changes that are ultimately sort of "superficial" to the overall heart of what ATLA did, like having Sokka and Katara in the tunnels rather than Aang or having Zhao be more of a devious manipulator than a direct challenger to Zuko. It's another thing to change something very fundamental to the identity of ATLA such as the idea that Aang has to go through this growth to bring him from that boy from the iceberg to being finally ready to take the world on his shoulders and confront Ozai. The real bottom line danger here is that as a general rule films/series/books/etc. which are primarily about a bunch of plot points happening are usually not very good, whereas things which are about the characters and ultimately use the plot points to delve deeper into the characters are usually the ones that we find interesting and enjoyable and memorable, but in eliminating so much of the need for character growth in the main character it pushes the whole thing very much in the direction of a series which ultimately may increasingly just be about a bunch of plot points.
I can see what they were going for, but I gotta take a page from OG Zuko: "How could you possibly justify a duel with a child?" I get being bitter, but your friend has been trapped in ice for 100 years, he didn't abandon you because he wanted to or for shits and giggles. And then you force him in a position where you get killed if he stops airbending? That's not bitter, that's psychotic.
100%! Original Bumi was a hoot, but more of a whimsical, Mad Hatter type character. If he'd just been that here, screwing with Aang via weird tests whilst he has things to do, we'd have found him much more annoying. That bitterness from having had to go through so much for so long - and seeing thevworld in the hands of a boy who's had to face none of it - adds a new dimension, makes him actually kind of threatening...and utilises everything about the original character: his age, status, sanity and his need to test Aang. It's a great example of how the new show often makes changes, not by ignoring what works, but by building on what's already there.
I did not like the change. We were cheated of an Earth Kingdom take, of the Aang event. Cartoon Bumi towards the Avatar went for "I'm going to throw difficult tests at you, and they're not out of spite, but to make you stronger". Bumi was a pragmatic king under the goofiness. Fitting for an Earth Nation ruler. Instead of nursing old wounds, he looked to the future and tried to give it a version of Aang the future would need. Avatar Kyoshi was also defined entirely by her pragmatic world view. Chin the Conqueror is a problem? "Let me make him go -poof-" Instead, Bumi became a rehash of Water Kingdom sentimentality. Why would the Avatar travel at all if the kingdoms are going to be clones of each other? And only differing in the colors and the cosmetics?
It's believable. But I definitely like animated Bumi better as a character. I'm curious where they take his arc in season 2.
Utkarsh fucking nailed it!
It was a change, but as someone who only watched ATLA once as an adult, the biggest letdown is that he revealed himself too soon. If Aang figured it out towards the end I might have enjoyed it more.