Popular anime series “One Piece” recently celebrated two highly-anticipated showdown episodes in Japanese theaters. In the meantime, Netflix’s live-action adaptation just got an official trailer! And a first real look at what to expect for its first season. And, we have to be honest, we’re cautiously optimistic. Given the dismal performance of the “Cowboy Bebop” live-action adaptation, we’re admittedly a little gun-shy. But the series of “One Piece” is so rooted in the bizarre, the over-the-top, and the impossible. This might actually work.
An Attempt To Remain Faithful To A Beloved Series
From the get-go, the set-dressing is already encouraging. There’s an astounding level of attention to detail. A lot of which is real sets. Helping to offset the impractical with the practical is a step in the right direction. Furthermore, the use of prosthetics and wirework, as presented by Fishman Pirate Arlong with his sawshark’s nose. And Sanji and Zoro’s gravity-defying abilities. Furthermore, we can’t deny that we can actively feel Iñaki Godoy‘s enthusiasm come through as Luffy. This newest trailer shows off the use of his Gum-Gum Fruit powers, as well as the abilities of others, like Buggy the Clown. And while you might find calling our your special moves when you fight cringy, it’s a common device in anime and manga.
Depending on the length of episodes, we would appear to be swiftly covering the collection of the first four members of the Straw Hat crew. We just hope they don’t try to stuff too much into the episodes and rush it. “One Piece” is known for being deeply emotional when it comes to character backstories, and Luffy’s unyielding drive to defend his friends. We can just hope that they can really lean into it and give it the weight it deserves.
There was also a letter from Eiichiro Oda, creator of the original anime:
“One Piece” is set to hit Netflix August 31st.
