The Legend of Korra
Top marks all round
Ages 8–13First shown 2012
Avatar Korra, a headstrong, rebellious, feisty young woman who continually challenges and breaks with tradition, is on her quest to become a fully realized Avatar. In this story, the Avatar struggles to find balance within herself.
Our verdict
- Good influence 5/5
- Parent appeal 5/5
- Well made 5/5
The Legend of Korra is widely regarded by reviewers as a sophisticated and visually stunning series that treats its audience with immense respect. It is celebrated for its deep exploration of mature themes like trauma, identity, and complex politics, anchored by a realistic and evolving female lead. While some viewers find certain romantic subplots or seasonal pacing inconsistent, the consensus is that its world-building, music, and emotional stakes make it a rare find for children and adults alike.
Why these scores
Good influence
Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?
5out of 5
The series features a powerful protagonist who undergoes a profound journey from brash impulsivity to spiritual maturity, specifically through a realistic and praised portrayal of recovery from trauma and PTSD. While a few reviewers find her initially abrasive or dislike certain season-specific resets in her development, most agree the show excels at depicting complex, human characters and sympathetic villains. Adults are generally shown as warm and supportive mentors, though the show also explores realistic family dysfunctions and the weight of parental legacies without being preachy.
Parent appeal
Will you enjoy watching it with them?
5out of 5
Reviewers overwhelmingly describe the show as 'for parents too,' citing sophisticated political allegories involving fascism, anarchy, and social inequality. The storytelling is mature and serialized, avoiding the typical 'talking down' found in many children's programs. While one or two voices found some teenage romantic subplots tedious, the vast majority of commentary suggests adults find the emotional depth and philosophical stakes highly engaging.
Well made
Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?
5out of 5
The production values are frequently described as peerless, with specific praise for the fluid, high-quality animation and inventive martial-arts choreography. The unique musical score, which blends traditional Asian instruments with 1920s jazz, is singled out as a masterclass in world-building. Some reviews note that the pacing and writing can be uneven across seasons—specifically citing a drop in quality during the second season and some rushed plot points in the finale due to external production factors—but the overall craft remains exceptional.
Watch-outs
Overstimulating: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Toy-led: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Grating audio: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Where to watch
Stream for free
- Not that we know of
Stream with a subscription
- Not that we know of
Rent or buy
- Not that we know of
DVD and Blu-ray
Last updated 18 October 2026.