Graphic Novel Review - 'The Legend of Korra: Ruins of the Empire, Part One' by Michael Dante DiMartino (Writer), Michelle Wong (Artist), Vivian Ng (Artist)

Heh, solid.

Could have used more action, though. It felt like the first episode of a whole season.

But 'The Legend of Korra: Ruins of the Empire, Part One' is a nice and relevant follow-up to the series, where you just have to find out where it's going. 'The Legend of Korra' comics are getting more and more political, but it's never boring, nor is it overt in its allusions to certain political climates in the real world. It feels like a natural progression, organic even, not a smack-on-the-head, "GET IT? GET IT? GET IT? RELEVANCE!" preachy message. Despite the politics - the teaching of the ways of a successful and/or failing democracy - there's plenty of room to breathe and enjoy a good story, with characters you care about. 

Everyone is in-character and lovely and understanding of one another. The dialogue is genuine and humourous at times. As usual, the art is great and stays true to the animated show. I barely noticed the change in artists.

And who could neglect to mention Korrasami! The couple are a good team, and they do kiss again! Finally! Yey!

Plus, I'm relieved that, while the comic saga seems to be building up Kuvira's redemption arc, her terrible crimes (like attempted murder, and actual murder) are not glossed over or forgotten about. Each character has good reason for not forgiving her and trusting her. I do like her - I love complex female villains; we get so little of those - but I know she shouldn't be given an easy pass. I want to see a female villain go through well-written character development and redemption, which have nothing to do with falling for a guy (seriously, in all fiction, name me one other female ex-baddie who DOESN'T change because of a guy on the good side. I don't think there are any).

Korra is less impulsive, and more calm, level-headed and reasonable than before. It's a nice, consistent progression for her; as a person, a friend, and as the Avatar. Other shout-outs to female characters in this comic include: President Zhu Li Moon, and Naga the polar bear-dog! And of course Asami and Kuvira. Since this arc will focus on the Earth Kingdom, there will be little to no inclusion of the Air nomads and characters associated with Republic City, and will feature Suyin Beifong and her family.

'The Legend of Korra: Ruins of the Empire, Part One' - Too short! But I'm looking forward to Part Two.

Final Score: 4/5