If you loved 'The Legend of Korra' (2012) for its rich storytelling, dynamic characters, and breathtaking animation, you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same spirit of adventure, deep lore, and powerful character arcs. Whether you're craving more elemental bending, epic battles, or complex heroines, these recommendations will keep you hooked just like Korra's journey did.

Samurai Jack (2001)
Description: Genndy Tartakovsky's masterpiece shares Korra's cinematic action sequences and blend of Eastern and Western animation styles. Both feature protagonists out of time (Jack displaced in the future/Korra connecting with past Avatars) who must master their skills to restore balance. The shows similarly use minimal dialogue to powerful effect during fight scenes.
Fact: The final season premiered 13 years after Season Won four Primetime Emmy Awards. The art style was inspired by Frank Miller's comic book work.


The Boondocks (2005)
Description: While tonally different, both series feature bold animation styles that push boundaries in Western animation. Like Korra, The Boondocks tackles social and political issues through its storytelling, though with satire rather than fantasy. Both shows were controversial for their progressive themes and faced network challenges during production.
Fact: Based on Aaron McGruder's comic strip of the same name. Features voice acting from Regina King in multiple roles. The theme song is performed by Asheru of Unspoken Heard.


Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)
Description: As the predecessor to The Legend of Korra, Avatar: The Last Airbender shares the same universe, creators (Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino), and deep lore involving bending arts and spiritual balance. Both series explore themes of responsibility, identity, and conflict resolution through martial arts-inspired action and rich character development.
Fact: The show's bending styles are based on real-world martial arts: Tai Chi for waterbending, Hung Gar for earthbending, Northern Shaolin for firebending, and Ba Gua for airbending. The character Toph was originally conceived as a male character. The series won multiple Annie Awards and a Primetime Emmy.


The Legend of Vox Machina (2022)
Description: Like Korra, this series features a diverse team of heroes with complementary abilities working together against escalating threats. Both shows balance intense action with character-driven humor and explore themes of found family. The animation styles similarly blend Western storytelling with anime influences, and both originated from existing properties (Avatar universe/Critical Role D&D campaign).
Fact: Based on the actual play sessions of Critical Role's first D&D campaign. Became Amazon Prime's most-watched animated original in its debut weekend. Features voice acting from the actual Critical Role players.


Young Justice (2010)
Description: Like Korra, Young Justice features young heroes growing into their powers while navigating complex political landscapes. Both shows mature with their audience, tackling darker themes in later seasons. The animation quality and fight choreography are similarly cinematic, with both series emphasizing team dynamics and personal growth.
Fact: Originally canceled after Season 2 due to low toy sales despite critical acclaim. Features DC's first animated portrayal of a same-sex superhero couple. The time jump between Seasons 1 and 2 was originally going to be much longer.


Trollhunters: Tales of Arcadia (2016)
Description: Created by Guillermo del Toro, this series shares Korra's coming-of-age fantasy elements, blending ordinary life with extraordinary responsibilities. Both protagonists (Jim/Korra) must balance their human connections with their supernatural duties. The shows feature rich world-building with multiple factions and mythologies coexisting.
Fact: Del Toro had been developing the concept for over a decade. Features voice acting from the late Anton Yelchin in his final role. Spawned two spin-offs set in the same universe.


Steven Universe (2013)
Description: Both series feature a young protagonist coming to terms with their inherited legacy (Avatar/Gem hybrid) while promoting messages of love, acceptance, and emotional intelligence. The shows share a progressive approach to relationships and identity, with Korra's romance with Asami paralleling Steven Universe's LGBTQ+ representation. Both blend action with deep emotional storytelling.
Fact: Rebecca Sugar is the first woman to independently create a series for Cartoon Network. The song 'Stronger Than You' became a viral hit. The Diamond Authority was partly inspired by the British royal family.


Voltron: Legendary Defender (2016)
Description: This Netflix reboot shares The Legend of Korra's serialized storytelling, diverse cast of characters, and blend of sci-fi/fantasy elements. Both shows feature strong female leads (Allura/Korra) who grow into leadership roles while dealing with political intrigue and ancient prophecies. The animation style similarly combines Eastern and Western influences.
Fact: Produced by many of the same team members who worked on Avatar: The Last Airbender. The original 1984 Voltron was adapted from two different Japanese anime series. Features voice acting from Steven Yeun (Walking Dead) and Bex Taylor-Klaus (Arrow).


Castlevania (2017)
Description: Both series feature a dark fantasy setting where the protagonist must master supernatural abilities to combat ancient evils. Like Korra, Trevor Belmont grows from a reluctant hero to a confident leader. The shows share a mature approach to storytelling with complex villains and political subplots, though Castlevania is significantly more violent and horror-oriented.
Fact: Based on the classic Konami video game series. Features voice acting from Richard Armitage (The Hobbit) and James Callis (Battlestar Galactica). The animation was produced by Powerhouse Animation Studios in Texas.


3Below: Tales of Arcadia (2018)
Description: As part of the Tales of Arcadia trilogy, this shares Korra's themes of displaced royalty learning about Earth while hiding their true nature. Both Aja and Korra are strong female leads who must navigate political intrigue while protecting their people. The shows blend sci-fi and fantasy elements with heartfelt character moments.
Fact: Focuses on alien royal siblings hiding on Earth. Features voice acting from Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black). The final season was released just two months after the second season.
