10 Shows and Movies Like Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)

Description: One Piece, like Avatar: The Last Airbender, follows a group of adventurers on a grand journey, with a strong emphasis on camaraderie and personal growth. Both series feature a mix of action, comedy, and emotional depth, with protagonists who are driven by a strong sense of justice and a desire to protect their friends. The world-building in both shows is extensive, with unique cultures and landscapes.

Fact: One Piece is the best-selling manga series in history. The series has been running since 1997 and is still ongoing. The creator, Eiichiro Oda, has stated that the story is about 80% complete as of

Description: Naruto shares with Avatar: The Last Airbender a young, determined protagonist who starts as an underdog and grows into a powerful hero. Both series explore themes of friendship, perseverance, and the struggle between good and evil. The action sequences, martial arts influences, and the protagonist's journey to master their abilities are also similar. Additionally, both shows have a rich world-building and a mix of humor and serious moments.

Fact: Naruto is one of the best-selling manga series of all time. The series was inspired by Japanese folklore and mythology. Naruto's signature move, the Rasengan, was created by the series' author, Masashi Kishimoto, after seeing a spinning top.

Description: Adventure Time shares with Avatar: The Last Airbender a whimsical yet deep storytelling style, with a mix of humor, adventure, and emotional depth. Both shows feature a young protagonist who grows and matures over the course of the series, facing both external and internal challenges. The world-building in both series is rich and imaginative, with unique characters and settings.

Fact: Adventure Time started as a short film on Nickelodeon. The series has been praised for its creativity and emotional storytelling. The show's lore and mythology became increasingly complex as it progressed.

Description: The Legend of Korra is a direct sequel to Avatar: The Last Airbender, sharing the same universe, creators (Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko), and themes of balance, spirituality, and personal growth. Like Avatar, it features a young protagonist with extraordinary abilities who must navigate complex political and social challenges while mastering their powers. The show also continues the unique blend of Eastern philosophy, martial arts, and elemental bending that made Avatar so distinctive.

Fact: The Legend of Korra was initially intended to be a miniseries but was expanded due to its popularity. The show explores more mature themes than its predecessor, including civil unrest and spiritual conflict. Korra is the first Avatar from the Southern Water Tribe.

Description: Hunter x Hunter shares with Avatar: The Last Airbender a young protagonist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Both shows feature a complex power system (Nen in Hunter x Hunter, bending in Avatar) and explore themes of friendship, morality, and the consequences of power. The storytelling is nuanced, with a balance of lighthearted moments and darker, more serious arcs.

Fact: Hunter x Hunter was created by Yoshihiro Togashi, who is also known for Yu Yu Hakusho. The series is known for its detailed and strategic fight scenes. The manga has been on hiatus multiple times due to the author's health issues.

Description: Attack on Titan shares with Avatar: The Last Airbender a protagonist who must grow into their role as a savior of their world. Both shows deal with themes of war, loss, and the weight of responsibility. While Attack on Titan is darker in tone, both series feature intense action sequences and a deep exploration of their characters' motivations and struggles.

Fact: Attack on Titan was initially rejected by multiple publishers before being serialized. The series has been praised for its intricate plot and twists. The creator, Hajime Isayama, has cited the video game Muv-Luv Alternative as a major influence.

Description: Steven Universe, like Avatar: The Last Airbender, features a young protagonist who must learn to harness their unique abilities while navigating complex emotional and moral challenges. Both shows emphasize themes of love, acceptance, and the importance of understanding others. The animation style and the blend of humor and heartfelt moments are also similar.

Fact: Steven Universe was created by Rebecca Sugar, the first woman to independently create a series for Cartoon Network. The show is known for its LGBTQ+ representation. The series has a strong musical component, with many original songs.

Description: Over the Garden Wall, like Avatar: The Last Airbender, is a coming-of-age story with a mix of adventure, mystery, and emotional depth. Both shows feature a young protagonist on a journey of self-discovery, accompanied by a loyal companion. The animation style and the blend of lighthearted and darker moments are also similar. Additionally, both series have a strong sense of atmosphere and folklore influences.

Fact: Over the Garden Wall was inspired by 19th-century American folklore and art. The series was originally conceived as a feature film. The show's soundtrack features folk and Americana music.

Description: Voltron: Legendary Defender shares similarities with Avatar: The Last Airbender in its ensemble cast of young heroes who must work together to save the universe. Both shows feature a mix of humor, action, and deep character development, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and friendship. The animation style and storytelling also have a similar appeal, blending Western and Eastern influences.

Fact: Voltron: Legendary Defender is a reboot of the 1980s series Voltron. The show was produced by the same studio (Studio Mir) that worked on The Legend of Korra. The series was praised for its diverse cast and character dynamics.

Description: My Hero Academia, like Avatar: The Last Airbender, centers on a young hero-in-training who must learn to master their unique abilities. Both shows explore themes of heroism, responsibility, and the importance of mentorship. The ensemble cast and the focus on teamwork and personal growth are also similar. Additionally, both series blend action with heartfelt moments and humor.

Fact: My Hero Academia was inspired by Western superhero comics. The series has spawned multiple movies and spin-offs. The creator, Kohei Horikoshi, is a fan of American superheroes like Spider-Man.