When I saw the teaser trailer for the first time, I knew it was going to be good. I wasn't a fan of One Piece at that time. One scene of the teaser that captured my eyes was Luffy asking Zoro to join his crew. So I attempted to watch the anime just to see that iconic scene, and I didn't realize spending more time watching the rest episodes. It was indeed an amazing story. So, I have been rooting for the OPLA since then. And here is my review breakdown of that live action:
PLOT
Compressing hundreds of episodes from anime fantasy to live-action is a challenging task. I'm impressed with how the screenwriters have done it well. I love how they changed the plot, and yet still managed to bring up the essence of the story. Dragging Garp into an earlier season is a good idea. So, it's not just about Luffy and his crew. I also love how they gave Koby and Helmeppo more screen time because their chemistry was on point. The writers seem to highlight more how Koby and Luffy grow as good marine and a good pirate, which is for me a great point.
CAST
I believe all cast have worked hard to portray the characters. For me, the best actor who nailed the character was Morgan Davies a Koby. I'm so impressed with his acting. The second goes to Taz Skylar as Sanji. His acting was as natural as the real Sanji that I watch in anime. The third, goes to Helmeppo. I can say he is the real Helmeppo. The other cast was still doing fine. But one cast that I question is Nojiko. I don't feel she is the right cast for the role, and the bad acting goes to the young Usopp.
CREATIVITY
I love how they introduce the characters with interactive bounty poster. I don't know who came up with that idea. But man, you are so creative. The One Piece logo in each episode is also so creative.
MUSIC SCORE
I love how they use Bink's Brew as background music in the young Luffy scene. and We Are when straw hats finally sail with Going Merry for the first time. And other scores in every scene that match the characters and plot.
OVERALL
It's a fun, funny, and heartwarming show for all ages, and a fresh show for OP anime fans like me. I can't wait for the next season to air.
