While the film didn't open too well and reviews weren't favourable, few could argue that Dev Patel, who plays Prince Zuko in The Last Airbender, didn't give it his best shot
While the film didn't open too well and reviews weren't favourable, few could argue that Dev Patel, who plays Prince Zuko in The Last Airbender, didn't give it his best shot. And it shows. One reviewer went as far as to say that he was the film's saving grace. 
I first saw Dev when he was shooting for Slumdog Millionaire (he played the eldest Jamaal in the firm) at the JJ School of Arts in Mumbai. A crew member pointed him out and Aayush Khedekar (who played the youngest Jamaal in the film and featured in the latest season of Zara Nachke Dikha) had only good things to say about him. We spoke over the phone recentlyu00a0-- Dev and Iu00a0-- while he was at the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo, for Airbender's promotion. In the young Mr Patel, I found a fellow admirer of the TV show on which the film is based. We also spoke about his character, the past (one TV show that made him famous) and the future (he's reading scripts and is expected to sign a film soon).
What traits do you share with Zuko, your character in The Last Airbender?
Well, for one, he's my favourite character in the series. I think in the cartoon, he's a lot more agressive. When I began rehearsing for this role, I realised that he's looking for direction and that he has a certain vulnerability that I try to bring to the role.
Have you watched the animated series on which this film is based?
Actually, I watched The Last Airbender on TV in India during the shooting of Slumdog Millionaire.
Ever consider making a guest appearance on Skins, the TV show that got you noticed by Danny Boyle, your Slumdog Millionaire director?
I don't see that happening. Though I'll always be grateful to that show. That was my first footstep into the industry. They were great guys but my stint on the show was like a stepping stone...
What do you think Zuko hates or respects most about Aang?
Well, at the start there is respect. The Avatar is supposed to be older (112 years old, to be precise) but when they meet, Aang is actually 12. So there is disdain. How could this little kid be so powerful? Over time, and several duels later, Zuko softens and he doesn't seem so agressive. After all, he's only looking for his father's approval.
Zuko is trying to prove something to his dad. Have you crossed the point of having to prove yourself with every film?
I'm always trying to prove myself. And coming off Slumdog..., there's too much pressure. The film's success was a blessing and a curse. I didn't expect it to do so well, character-wise. And now that I am another Asian guy in Hollywood, I'm always waiting to prove myself. I'd give up anything for a chance to have a perfect performance.
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