One Piece — Review Season One

With over 1,000 episodes that stretch out over two decades, “One Piece” (created by Eiichiro Oda) is one of the longest-running and most popular animes of all time. 

In season one, we follow the journey of Monkey D. Luffy (Iñaki Godoy), an ambitious young pirate determined to locate the legendary treasure, One Piece, and claim the title of “The King of the Pirates”. Pursued by a ruthless authority known as the Marines, Luffy assembles an eccentric crew that includes pirate hunter Roronoa Zoro (Mackenyu Arata), cartographer and thief Nami (Emily Rudd), and the slingshot-wielding Usopp (Jacob Romero), and ship's cook Sanji (Taz Skylar). With each episode, viewers are immersed in a thrilling tale of adventure, friendship, and discovery as Luffy and his crew navigate treacherous waters, encounter formidable foes, and strive to achieve their dreams amidst the ever-present danger of the high seas.

Erratic but enjoyable storytelling

Showrunners Matt Owens and Steven Maeda's decision to adhere closely to the original tone of “One Piece” presents both a risk and a reward. While some viewers may find the swashbuckling narrative overwhelming, others may appreciate its fidelity to the source material. However, for those like me, who are not initially drawn to the anime's style, this may present a challenge. 

It takes a while for the series to establish its characters and narrative. While this period allows viewers to become acquainted with protagonist Luffy, the frequent flashbacks disrupt the pacing. A more seamless integration of these flashbacks could enhance the storytelling experience and reduce distractions.

Navigating the expansive and intricate world of “One Piece” can be daunting for newcomers. Despite the show's efforts to provide background information, there were moments when I needed additional information to understand aspects of the show.

However, the primary obstacle to fully embracing “One Piece” lies in its erratic storytelling. Its tone can swiftly shift from edgy violence to whimsical moments, and sometimes it even feels like a children's series. While this difference may be attractive to some viewers, it leaves me feeling disoriented.

Characters: the heartbeat of the show

The show’s greatest treasure is the dynamic between the Straw Hat crew. As the crew’s journey unfolds, viewers are treated to moments of revelation and discovery about the character's backstory. While many stories center on romantic relationships, this series places a greater emphasis on the strong bond of friendship shared by the crew. This choice allows viewers to invest in each character individually, without the need to favor romantic pairings or determine whom they care for in a love triangle. Instead, the focus remains squarely on the quest, which is a refreshing change of pace.

Central to the narrative is Monkey D. Luffy, whose boundless optimism and firm determination drive the crew forward. Despite his seemingly carefree demeanor, Luffy's character is imbued with depth and complexity, hinting at a mysterious past that unfolds gradually throughout the season. While his rose-colored view of the world may paint him as naive, his resilience in the face of adversity and his staunch loyalty to his friends show his true strength as a leader.

Iñaki Godoy delivers a standout performance as Monkey D. Luffy, infusing the character with infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy. Initially, Luffy's relentless optimism and positivity grated on my nerves, but as the season progressed, Godoy’s portrayal gradually won me over—mirroring the journey of acceptance experienced by Luffy’s companions. 

Emily Rudd infuses Nami with a blend of strength and vulnerability to the role of Nami. While her mysterious demeanor may initially frustrate viewers longing for transparency, Rudd's portrayal pays off when Nami's complex backstory is revealed during a showdown against the formidable villain, Arlong (McKinley Belcher III).

Mackenyu's portrayal captures the essence of Zoro's character, balancing his quiet resolve with moments of explosive action, particularly during the series' exhilarating fight scenes. Much like Luffy, he pursues a single dream: to surpass the feared Dracule Mihawk (Steven John Ward) and become the world's strongest warrior. While his goal is clear, the journey ahead won't be easy. Zoro must dedicate himself to relentless training and he must never give up (a sentiment that makes John Cena proud).

Vincent Regan brings gravitas to the role of Vice Admiral Garp, a formidable adversary tasked with pursuing Luffy and his crew on behalf of the world government. Alongside his protégé Koby (Morgan Davies), Garp's motivations remain shrouded in mystery, adding an element of suspense to his interactions with the Straw Hat Crew.

Visual spectacle

The visual effects team deserves commendation for their work. The attention to detail by the make-up and costume department is clear throughout the series. Characters like the Kuro (Alexander Maniatis) and Buggy the Clown (Jeff Ward) are brought to life with care and precision. 

The fantastical abilities of the characters, e.g., Luffy's rubber-like abilities or Buggy's limb-separation, are portrayed with such conviction by the actors that they become natural extensions of their personalities. Despite the surreal nature of some elements, it’s remarkable how the series captures these aspects in a way that feels organic and authentic.

Additionally, the dynamic choreography of the fight scenes adds a layer of authenticity to the character's abilities. Whether showcasing Luffy's flexibility or Zoro's lightning-fast swordplay, each battle is executed with precision and fluidity.

Embracing the joy of adventure

Season One of “One Piece” provided a delightful escape from reality. Across its eight episodes, the series masterfully balances comedy, adventure, action, and even moments of chilling horror, yet at its core, it radiates infectious enthusiasm and boundless imagination. The sheer grandeur of its fantastical and slapstick elements adds to the charm, inviting viewers to surrender to the whimsy of its universe. 

Central to the series' appeal is its celebration of friendship and camaraderie. The crew of the Straw Hat Pirates each harbor dreams they pursue with unwavering determination, buoyed by the bonds they share. Whether facing off against fearsome adversaries or embarking on daring escapades, their journey is fueled by the power of friendship, inspiring viewers to embrace the spirit of adventure in their own lives.

I’m looking forward to more adventures in season two.

4 Stars