Netflix’s latest series, “One Piece,” based on the popular Japanese manga of the same name, has already achieved a remarkable feat, surpassing the viewing records set by other hit shows like “Stranger Things” and “Wednesday.”
This live-action adaptation of Eiichiro Oda’s bestselling manga, which has captured audiences since its debut in 1997, has captivated viewers worldwide. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy (played by Iñaki Godoy), who assembles a crew of future Straw Hat pirates, including swordsman Roronoa Zoro (Mackenyu), thief Nami (Emily Rudd), marksman Usopp (Jacob Romero), and chef Sanji (Taz Skylar).
Luffy’s dream is to become the “King of the Pirates,” and his quest revolves around finding the mysterious treasure of the legendary pirate Gold Roger (played by Michael Dorman).
The series co-creator, Steven Maeda, highlights the central character, Luffy, as a beacon of unwavering optimism, the one who perseveres and guides the crew in the right direction. Despite not knowing their exact destination, they all share a common goal, and Luffy serves as their guiding light.
According to FlixPatrol, a data provider, “One Piece” season 1 has set a new record by claiming the top spot on Netflix’s charts in 84 countries. This achievement surpasses the debuts of “Wednesday” and “Stranger Things” season 4, both of which reached number one in 83 countries on their initial weekends.
The show’s creators drew inspiration from Eiichiro Oda’s original manga, delving into character backstories, birth dates, heights, and favorite foods to provide emotional depth to the characters. The commitment to preserving Oda’s vision and designs is evident throughout the production.
Costume designer Diana Cilliers praised Oda’s work and used his “Color Walk” as a primary reference. She described reading his work as an overwhelming experience and a testament to his genius.
As of now, the series has received favorable reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics giving it an 83 percent rating, while the audience’s response stands at an impressive 96 percent. Viewers have praised the series for its exceptional cast, strong acting, and overall quality.
One viewer commented, “So so good. Great cast and great acting. Very well made,” while another praised it as “one of the best web series/TV shows I have ever seen” and awarded it five stars. The show is hailed as the first successful live-action adaptation of an anime, earning acclaim for its quality.
For those intrigued by the buzz surrounding “One Piece,” the series is available for streaming on Netflix, offering an opportunity to explore the epic adventure firsthand.
