AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER:
Earth, Wind & Fire
What started as a series of sketches between Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino birthed a beloved fantasy world that sprawls across two animated series, multiple comic books, a feature-length film, and a soon-to-be Netflix live-action series. Edwin Zane talks about his time as Cultural Consultant for Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Head of Long Form, Edwin Zane:Nickelodeon was looking for an Asian American who was knowledgeable in scripted TV development and Asian culture to join the team. My experience in developing multicultural shows with long character story arcs like Battlestar Galactica and The Shield intrigued them, but it was my commitment to advocating for Asian American representation in the media that sealed the deal.
As the Cultural Consultant, it was my job to use my connections and resources, do the research, and reach out to experts to provide the show with accurate information.
During my interview with Nickelodeon, I was perfectly honest with them that I’m a Korean-Chinese American from Hawaii, but I’m no scholarly expert in Chinese or Japanese language and culture.
I was surprised how well received the series was from both Asian and non-Asian audiences. Cultural references in entertainment can often be used to ridicule minorities, but I’ve never seen Asians being made fun of or teased for using an Avatar reference.
I was thrilled with how valued my thoughts and opinions were by the creators and the execs at Nickelodeon, from naming the cities and characters to casting suggestions.
Excerpts from the original Avatar: The Last Airbender show bible.
I think what makes Avatar: The Last Airbender so special is the world inside the show. It’s a magical place where people have control over the natural elements (water, air, fire, earth).