The Way of the Leaf: A Path Aimed at Stopping Violence, or Enabling It?

 *Contains spoilers for The Wheel of Time S03E04

Brief Synopsis

The most recent episode of Prime Video's The Wheel of Time is a visual wonder of storytelling. As it begins, we find our Group A (Rand, Morraine, Lan, Egwene, and Aviendha) making their way through the Aiel Wastes with their new companion guides. As they approach their destination of Rhuidean, a heavy trial awaits three of them. Rand, Morraine, and Aviendha enter the City of Clouds in order to prove themselves worthy of the Three-Fold Land's greatest titles. What happens next is nothing short of fascinating.

Rand's trial carries him through past lives; members of his bloodline spanning thousands of years. Each turn of the wheel reveals more about who he is and where he comes from. It's worth mentioning that each ancestor is consistently portrayed by Josha Stradowski, and he does a wonderful job of conveying so many different characters. I am an avid fan of spiritual journeys and past life regression, so watching Rand discover himself by literally becoming his past selves is exactly my cup of tea.

The biggest reveal (to me at least) is that the Aiel are actually the original Tuatha'an. Before they took up spears and became some of the land's greatest warriors, they were sworn to the Way of the Leaf and traveled alongside their fellow Aielmen with their wagons and songs. One of Rand's past lives, a carefree youth named Lewin, had his life turned upside down when he learned of his sister and her friend being abducted by bandits. Confused by his own family's unwillingness to try and rescue her, he set out with two of his friends to do just that.

By nightfall, they found the two young women being held in a camp. Their captors were asleep, but they were afraid to leave for fear of being caught and enduring more of the abuse they had clearly been subject to already. But their hesitation allowed time for the bandits to be alerted to the presence of their rescuers, forcing Lewin and his friends into a fight. They killed the bandits, but lost one of their own in the process.

When they returned with the girls, Lewin and his surviving friend were not greeted with a warm reception. Having broken their oath to the Way of the Leaf, the two boys were immediately shunned and exiled from their home. But with a heavy heart, they donned the masked visage we know of the modern Aiel and vowed to protect their people from danger, even if only from a distance.

The Way of the Leaf

More and more history of the Aiel were revealed, showing even more pain and suffering brought upon them despite (or perhaps because of) their peaceful ways. A particular saying rang out repeatedly: 

"We bury our dead, then we go on. What else is there?"

This particular philosophy has never quite sat right with me.

Those poor young girls were abducted and abused by simple men. Not soldiers, warriors, or deadly mercenaries. Their attackers looked to be sloppy town drunks who probably knew all too well how easy it would be to pick off a few Aiel for sport. There's no telling how long those women would have been held there, or if they would've been allowed to live after these monsters were done with them. And if they had been let go, would they return to the wagons? What would they be returning to? A supposed family that would allow the same thing to happen to them again if another group of men showed up the very next day? Because if so, then the bandits aren't the only ones to be held accountable for what happened.

It is the cruelest joke to surrender your fate to the will of whoever so happens upon you, only to call it "the will of The Wheel." The Way of the Leaf sounds wonderful in theory, but peace is not something that can exist undefended. There will always be someone or something looming in the distance, ready to strike when the opportunity arises.

What's the Solution?

The problem with these factions and philosophies is that those that come after its originators have been given no choice or knowledge of all else that exists. They are born into a way of life that says "this is our way. Comply or be exiled; tossed into the unknown." It's an unfortunate and cruel method of control, regardless of intention.

The Tuatha'an say folks leave the wagons when they turn twenty years of age. They experience the outside world through all manner of means; travel, setting sail, or even taking up arms. It is then that they decide if the Way of the Leaf is truly for them, and whether or not to return to the wagons. But I say that's too late.

When a group of bandits attacks and abducts a few of the Aiel/Tuatha'an, who are their victims? Are they grabbing women of an advanced age who know full well the possibilities of suffering they could be subject to under the Way of the Leaf? Or are they abducting woman who have probably yet to leave the wagons; women who know nothing other than the Aiel way of life?

These horrors then become the only thing they know of the outside world. What fear must exist within them at just the thought of leaving the wagons. Or even, what rage may build when they discover cities with enforced rules against such savagery. Or when they meet warriors, channelers, or other simple folk who actively stand up to such injustices. What does it mean then to compare all that possibility to the cruel fate you were forced into simply by birth?

I know so many of us want to live in light. We want to devote ourselves to lives of peace away from all the horrors of the world. But to do so is to deny the very nature of our existence. We are not creatures of light or shadow. We are all encompassing of both. Light, darkness, and everything in between.

The Tuatha'an and Aiel now exist as two sides of the same coin, yet they should be united. It's a beautiful thing to choose peace and unbordered unity. But it is an even more greater thing to know when and how to defend that peace.

Lewin's decision to remain at his people's side as a protector is one that should have been made long ago, and the two factions should have traveled side by side from that point on. It's a sad thing to see them so distanced, both physically and philosophically. I cannot help but imagine that is the very reason Wise One prophecy saw the full destruction of the Aiel should the Car'a'carn not arrive.

ATLA Live-Action: Not All Fans are the Same

 I'm a huge fan of adaptations. Honestly, I am. Unlike remakes, adaptations bring with them the excitement of change. They're not meant to be frame-for-frame, word-for-word translations of their source material. I often look forward to what kind of changes will come, with the hope that they will expand on what already exists and forge new insight into the original's world. But dammit, adaptations sure are hit and miss.

When the live-action Avatar: the Last Airbender series was announced, there was an incredible wave of excitement. Many of us were understandably wary, but things looked good at the start. The original creators were on board and Netflix's general reputation of quality content (however long they last) gave us some assurance. Things fell apart toward the end, however, when the original creators once again stepped away due to "creative differences" and the list of odd changes to the story and its characters signaled a lot of red flags. But many of us held out and gave the show a shot.

Now, there has been a great amount of discourse surrounding this show. New and old fans have been clashing online over just about every aspect of the new series. Whether in support of or against it, there are interesting points to be made on both sides. But there is one fundamental issue that sits at the source of all this. Not every ATLA fan is the same, and an opinion greatly depends on what it is about the original that they connect with the most.

For me, spirituality sat as the essence of the original series. It is what both drew me in and kept me watching season after season. The world of Avatar was so vast and everything within it held significance, but an underlying spiritual presence was at the core of it all. The majority of screen time followed our main cast of human characters, but the encounters with animals and spirits of the world felt just as important. In some cases, more so. They were given equal weight and treatment in terms of presentation and storytelling.

The new ATLA live-action failed to deliver on that depth of spirituality, which led to my personal disconnect from it. The show made many changes that I can forgive and adapt to, but this departure was too much. Two key moments in particular stood out amongst them all.

Toph learning how to earthbend from the badgermoles.

In the Avatar world, badgermoles are noble creatures. Their history places them as the inspiration of modern earthbending. They are blind, music loving beasts that would never hurt anyone unless provoked. Their movements are powerful, yet restrained. You can see how many earthbending techniques are derived from the way they carefully navigate their environments, shifting their weight around in order to manipulate the earth around them. It is one of the things I enjoyed most about the animated series.

In the live-action, however, it seems all of that was thrown away. What was a peaceful, noble beast is instead introduced to us as a savage attacker. The badgermole shown in the live-action angrily engages Katara and Sokka, unprovoked and snarling viciously until it is calmed. Then, when it turns to depart the scene, it throws its body against a nearby wall and claws away at it like a rabid dog.

The second most notable instance was the treatment of the ocean spirit in the season's finale (yes I stuck with it to the end). In the original series, this is one of the most iconic moments. After witnessing the murder of its partner, the ocean spirit takes control of the Avatar in order to enact its revenge. Using the Avatar as a catalyst, it takes on a massive form and lays waste to the fire nation forces. The most beautiful thing about this moment, is that it is done in relevant silence. After the initial line of "No, it's not over," the ocean spirit takes action with nothing but a powerful score backing its actions. As a spirit as old as time, there is a great level of reservation in its attacks. It moves gracefully through the northern water tribe's village, calmly and effortlessly laying waste to the fire nation soldiers in its path. I find it difficult to explain, but the power of this spirit is quite clearly displayed through its peaceful rage.

In the live action, the ocean spirit is presented as (once again) a shell of its origin. Aang is given the introductory line as if he has control of the situation and is choosing the bond with the spirit. Then, after bonding with the Avatar and taking its massive form, the ocean spirit is reduced (as with the badgermole) to a roaring beast, flailing violently in its rage. And as if the spirit were not present in the preceding scene, Princess Yue comments that, in its rage, it is doomed to walk the earth, forever searching for its love.

This is a spirit as old as time, with powers far beyond that of any of the characters we know. Its display of power was a testament to the underlying story of how separated the physical and spiritual worlds had become. There was a strong message within the way in which it took control of the mindless human war that had interfered with its peaceful existence. The ocean spirit having full autonomy and power over the situation was a key moment in laying the roots of future storytelling within the Avatar-verse. It, again, felt like a cheap dilution of what I believed to be an important aspect of the original show.

Now, I could honestly write a thesis paper on all the changes the live action made that took away from the original rather than add to it. However, as I stated earlier, the key factor in connecting with the new adaptation (or not) is figuring out what it is that drew you to the original series in the first place. For a lot of folks, so long as the bending looked cool, they were in. For others, all it took was the presence of a certain character. The pool of fans is incredibly large, but no two fans are the same. We all connect to the series in a myriad of ways and, therefore, our opinions would divert no matter what direction a new series or adaptation went in. The most important thing is to just let things be. If there are people who enjoy the new show, let them. And if some of us need to part ways with it due to lack of connection, let us be. There really isn't any reason for the combative discourse.

And who knows? Maybe another season or two will give this show the ability to grow into something we can all love and appreciate.

Hidden Figures and the Importance of Representation

By now, most people have at least heard about Hidden Figures. This movie tells the true story of three black women employed at NASA during the early years of US's race to space against Russia. Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae), and Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) served as mathematicians in the program, with the movie covering their time during the Friendship Seven launch and John Glenn's orbit around the Earth.

From the moment this film started, I teared up. Something inside me reacted right away to the shear fact that I was watching a black woman on screen in a role outside of what media usually provides. Watching a young Katherine display her intelligence, with great support from her family and community to nourish those talents, struck me clear to the heart. I knew everything I was about to witness was important, and this immediate shame set in for this story, this true story, being unfolded before my eyes for the very first time.

The struggle of minorities is not news to anyone. For far too long, we've been up against obstacles placed in front of us by those who don't want us to progress. Even today, the very society we live in is structured in a way to keep us from achieving more than what our oppressors originally intended. Sitting in the theatre watching this beautiful film, I could not help but to think of how wonderful this world would be today if stories like this weren't excluded from history. I tried to imagine myself at 15 years old, vulnerable and in need of role models I could easily relate to. Walking into class every day to learn about another white man and his accomplishments and forced to commit his name to memory. How I wished for the script to change, and this could have provided just that. Stepping into a classroom and learning, for a change, about three brilliant black women who contributed such profound work to the field of science would have been a great eye-opener for me. And not just me, but the rest of the world as well. There are so many untold stories of powerful and intelligent individuals of all colors who have contributed to much of what we take for granted today. However, their glory is attributed to the same default white persona each time. No credit is given and their names are erased from the topic. Our education system overlooks these important figures and only teaches us from a Euro-centric perspective.

So many minorities are viewed in a negative light, treated as if they do nothing to benefit society. As if we're all supposed to be happy and grateful at the simple fact that we are no longer slaves. And yet, slavery is the only label they allow us to wear in the teachings of history. We have been here every step of the way, in all aspects of this country's existence. We are just as capable, and in some cases more so, than our white counterparts and yet they still try to keep us down. They utilize our talents and reap the benefits of our achievements, then claim responsibility and write us off as secondary citizens. At what point will it stop? At what point will equal rights and acknowledgement be seen as just that? It continues to baffle my mind how equality and progress is viewed as oppression in the eyes of the oppressor. They fear being overthrown and treated as we have been treated, yet our real goal is to dismantle the unjust system currently set in place and build a new one that benefits all.

Hidden Figures is one of the most important films of all time, especially in today's political climate. It has never been more important for us to be represented in accurate and positive portrayals. The world needs to know who we are, what we are capable of, and how far we've come. The strength needed to survive and persevere throughout the years is not one that can be measured. I hope more and more see this film and walk away with the knowledge of how important diversity is to a successful society, and how large a role people of color have played in ours.

This is just one story of many. Here's to all that are to come.

HBO's Looking: Now That It's Gone

It's been quite some time since Looking wrapped up its second season, and it's no news that the series has been canceled. The show was far from the greatest, but I can't help but feel a slight emptiness now that it is gone. There was just something so great about it. The fact that a show such as this existed was enough to keep me watching week after week, regardless of how I felt about certain plot points.

Mad Max: Fury Road

Have you not seen this movie? No? Well, you need to close your browser right now and head to your local theatre. I'm serious. Go. Right now.

For the rest of you, it's already clear. This movie is freakin' amazing! Visually, it's one of the most stunning films I've ever watched, but overall it was hands down an incredible experience from start to finish.

Tom Hardy kills it as Max, a lone traveler fighting to survive on his own in a post-apocalyptic world where most of the population has, of course, gone savage. He is captured and taken to a fortress called The Citadel, wherein he is thrown into the beginning of the story's major plot. I'm not here to give spoilers; just to give praise to this amazing film. The characters are exquisite. The design of their costumes as well as the unique vehicles they command is top notch and incredibly detailed. The action scenes are breath-taking. I literally had to gasp and take in a deep breath after the first twenty minutes. There was so much going on that all my energy went into keeping up with my eyes. The cinematography and choreography kept me glued to the screen for the film's entire duration. I was in a state of pure enjoyment.

Furiosa (Charlize Theron) takes on Max (Tom Hardy) in my favorite fight scene of the film. The choreography here incorporated six other characters in their duel and it was both exciting and amusing to watch.

There's so much more to say about this film, but I'll leave it at action-packed powerhouse. Before the film was even halfway over, I had already added it to my top ten greatest action movies of all time. Congrats to all involved.

Make the Yuletide Gay

Happy Holidays! I hope everyone is keeping warm as the temperatures drop. And what better way to celebrate the season than by kicking back and watching a movie?

One of my all-time favorites is a cute little film called Make the Yuletide Gay, by Guest House Films. It centers around a young man named Olaf who, having not yet come out to his parents, winds up having his boyfriend from college posing as a simple friend when he joins him at home for Christmas. The plot is of course simple enough, but what I love about this film is its humor and heart. It's a light-hearted film that exudes warmth and reaches out to hug its viewers. The cast is fantastic, and our two main actors (Keith Jordan and Adamo Ruggiero) portray one of the most adorable couples I have ever seen on film. You'll find a lot of cheese in this film, but not so much in the cliche department. Yes, the closeted plot may seem a bit played out, but it's more about the relationship between the two young men and the acceptance of their love. It's a joy to watch them fall deeper in love as they learn more about themselves as their situation progresses. I quickly stopped caring about the inevitable coming out, and more so longed for the proclamation of love that would take this blossoming relationship to the next level.

Aren't they so cute?!

If you'd like a feel good flick to watch during the holidays, let Make the Yuletide Gay keep you warm during the winter months. It's definitely worth the watch.

Atkins Watch: Boulevard

R.I.P. Robin Williams, a comedy treasure whose brilliance will forever be cherished.

I had the deepest pleasure of catching a screening of this wonderful film at this year's Outfest in Los Angeles. It stars Robin Williams as Nolan Mack, an aged man reaching his limitations on sexual suppression. Although married, it is clear the circumstances of the betrothal are far from ordinary. On a seemingly typical night, our main character comes across a young hustler named Leo(Roberto Aguire), with whom he begins an intimate affair. The relationship allows for Nolan to come to terms with his sexuality and we follow him on his journey of self-acceptance.

We all know Robin Williams is no stranger to powerful drama. He does not disappoint as he delivers a beautiful and touching performance as this tragically damaged character. Often it is what he doesn't say that speaks loudest, as the body language and expression used gives hint to the turmoil within. We all remember the joy and laughter Robin has brought us throughout his lengthy career, but it is films such as Boulevard, in which he shows us the depth of skill and emotion he is able to muster as any character, that I will remember the most.