Why would they want to ride on the same ship as Luffy? I would say it’s because Luffy doesn’t place other people’s dreams beneath his own. Although he aspires to become the Pirate King, he doesn’t demand that his companions live for his success.
The live-action version of “One Piece” (2023) on Netflix has a bizarre beginning. A boy whose body can stretch like rubber sets out to sea to gather people. However, what drew me in was not his extraordinary ability, but rather Luffy’s attitude of not withdrawing his friendliness even from people who were wary of him.
Zoro, who dreams of becoming the world’s strongest swordsman, and Nami, who wants to save her hometown, each have their own priorities. Luffy does not treat these priorities as obstacles to his own adventures. Luffy, you respect other people’s aspirations even without a job posting.
Of course, respecting dreams does not automatically mean being ready to entrust each other with vulnerabilities. Within the total of 8 episodes, the narrative includes encounters and conflicts, and there are moments where trust grows faster than the time spent together. Nevertheless, my judgment is clear: this live-action version may rush the pace at which relationships develop, but it provides a solid foundation for why people would seek help from each other.
Luffy gathers allies, not subordinates
I find the qualities of a captain not in Luffy’s strength, but in his attitude towards the dreams of others. A true captain is not someone who only talks about their own goals, but someone who doesn’t diminish the goals of others.
The goal of becoming the Pirate King can inadvertently make those around you mere supporting characters. If the captain desires the highest position, it is easy for the others to focus on elevating him. However, traveling with Luffy does not necessarily mean abandoning one’s own dreams.
The bounty hunter Zoro wants to become the world’s greatest swordsman. Meeting Luffy does not change his goal to becoming the Pirate King. I like that Zoro maintains his own dreams while traveling with him.
Sanji, a cook who works at a sea restaurant, also has a sea he wants to visit. Because he wants to repay Jeff, who saved him, Sanji cannot easily leave. At this point, the departure is not just about filling Luffy’s crew; it is about Sanji making a choice about his own life.
The young man Usopp, who fabricates adventure stories, is different. He is accustomed to talking about adventures, but he is afraid of actual danger. What Usopp needs is not an order to overcome his fear, but a reason to move forward even when he is afraid.
In Luffy’s presence, these differences cannot be ignored. A skilled swordsman and a cook do not need to share the same goals. The fact that, despite being a pirate crew, they have no guideline for unifying their aspirations is quite reassuring.
The reason I believe in this relationship is because not everyone initially trusted Luffy. It is natural to be wary of a stranger who approaches and asks to join you. Luffy does not immediately interpret this wariness as betrayal.
This difference is not insignificant. When the other party hesitates, demanding that they prove their sincerity can turn recruitment into a test of loyalty. Luffy’s friendliness continues even if the other party does not immediately reciprocate the same feelings.
Of course, one cannot become a captain simply because they are a kind person. When traveling together, one must be willing to step in to help others in danger. Whether someone who supported your dreams will be by your side during dangerous moments is a completely separate issue.
Therefore, when I observe these characters’ interactions, I focus more on the conditions for joining their group than on the simple act of joining. Zoro never abandons his desire to become stronger. Sanji also does not dismiss the relationships he has with those who have cared for him.
When people come together, it takes a great deal of effort to understand each other. Questions that could be put aside while facing a common enemy resurface when they have to live together. The question is: how far am I willing to go to support what you want?
Luffy’s cheerful personality is not solely due to his smiling face. It is his attitude of not being bothered by other people’s dreams that allows him to face that question as well. I admire the fact that this boy’s confidence is not limited to his own abilities.
However, there is a difference between talking about dreams that others respect and revealing hidden wounds. One can speak confidently about their dreams, but their voice may falter when seeking help. Whether Luffy is truly on one’s side becomes clear when Nami, who had been enduring it alone, can no longer bear it.
Friendship is proven when Nami asks for help
Iñaki Godoy, who plays Luffy, approaches first, while Emily Rudd, who plays Nami, does not easily open up. I came to believe in the friendship between the two when the distance between them began to narrow. It was only when Nami asked for help that I fully believed in Luffy’s optimism.
Nami is a navigator who carries the burden of saving her homeland alone. She appears like a thief who doesn’t trust others, but her caution stems from the people she needs to protect. If you label her as a cold person simply because it’s difficult to get close to her, you will miss the true nature of this character.
Her insistence on solving the problem alone is not simply a matter of pride. It stems from a desperate belief that only by persevering herself can her hometown survive. Therefore, when her plans fail, she experiences a fear that is greater than the loss of money.
Emily Rudd portrays the extent of this change through her facial expressions. The guarded expression she initially wears dissolves, and she ultimately asks Luffy for help. It is not simply the portrayal of a strong person suddenly becoming weak, but rather the face of someone who has exhausted all their strength, even the strength to pretend to be strong.
My feelings were not only moved by pity for Nami. The initial caution revealed how difficult it must have been for her to ask for help from someone. The brief words requesting assistance contained the weight of the time she had spent enduring things alone.
Iñaki Godoy, who plays Luffy, has a good attitude in responding to requests. Because he trusted her first, he does not demand an explanation or apology from her. The friendliness he previously showed is now replaced by the steadfastness of someone who is worthy of trust.
If Luffy had tried to “fix” Nami here, I would have liked this scene less. Words of encouragement to live more brightly or to trust her companions are not the help that is needed right now. Godo does not cover the other person’s pain with false confidence; instead, he protects the space where Nami can reach out.
The differences between them remain significant. Luffy is someone who readily believes, while Nami is someone who fears losing what she has. The drama does not demand that Nami become like Luffy in order to be together.
Therefore, this scene carries more weight than a simple declaration of becoming comrades. Nami reveals her vulnerability, and Luffy accepts it. What’s more important than the fact that they can fight together is the fact that they can turn to each other even when they lack the strength to fight.
In Makkenyu’s depiction, Zoro conveys through his body the weight of his dream as he faces Mihawk. Jacob Romero Gibson‘s portrayal of Usopp, even in moments of protecting Kaya, leaves a lingering feeling of fear, showing that one does not have to lose one’s fear to become a comrade.
What makes them worthy is not strength without wounds or fear. Nami’s request for help reminds us of the people gathered there. While each person may be confident when speaking of their dreams, there will always be moments when they are unable to protect those dreams alone.
I understood why they had to be on the same ship, all because of Nami’s request. Then, can we call it a failure simply because the event was changed from the original story, even though this relationship still exists?
I will not call it a failure simply because it is different from the original work
I disagree with those who call this live-action version a failure simply because it changed the original work. However, I do agree with the criticism that the characters had less time to get to know each other.
These two judgments must be distinguished. Even if the order in which events are presented is different, the reason for opening one’s heart to each other remains. On the other hand, even if one follows the events exactly, the term “colleague” is meaningless if there is a weak reason to be together.
The live-action version introduces the pirate Aaron, who rules Nami’s hometown, earlier in the story. The movements of Garp and the Marines, who are pursuing Luffy and his crew, are also advanced. This is a choice to connect the separate adventures within a single season.
I support this direction of choice. Even though unfamiliar islands and characters continue to appear, it gives a sense that the preceding event is connected to the following event. Even for someone seeing it for the first time, they won’t miss who they should be following now.
Especially, Koby, who dreams of joining the Navy, is a character who has chosen a different path from Luffy. When placed side-by-side, the question isn’t simply “pirate or Navy,” but rather, “what kind of person do they aspire to be?” This arrangement highlights the importance of attitude over affiliation when choosing companions.
However, the continuity of the plot and the development of relationships are separate matters. Just because you know who is chasing whom, it doesn’t automatically mean you understand who might entrust their wounds to whom. The skill of weaving together the plot cannot replace the time required to build relationships.
The original manga depicts a long journey where dreams and friendships are forged. The live-action version incorporates encounters, joining together, and individual stories within a total of 8 episodes. Even when becoming comrades, the path to that decision varies for each person.
Reducing the number of required documents for employment is a good thing, but it is problematic if the probationary period is used to cover the time needed to build relationships.
What I find regrettable is not the speed itself. It is when shared experiences of overcoming danger immediately translate into deep trust. Even when they have fought risking their lives, there are still circumstances that are difficult to talk about.
This drama clearly shows what each character wants. However, knowing what one wants and knowing how to treat a person when they are at their lowest are different things. The latter requires more time to live with someone and to understand them.
The reason Nami’s requests for help resonate so strongly lies in this very aspect. The initial display of caution reinforces the difficulty of the request. In that scene, viewers not only believe that Luffy will accept the request, but also trust Nami, who endured so much to make the request.
Not every integration process allows individuals to gain sufficient time. Some individuals, upon having their dreams and stories understood, must be immediately accepted as close colleagues. The pace at which one’s feelings catch up is slightly slower than the pace at which one’s mind does.
Therefore, my criteria are not based on how many scenes from the original work are retained. Instead, it’s about whether the adaptation shows the change in the character who was previously independent and is now relying on others. Changing the order of events can be a valid choice if it answers this question.
The person I regret the shortened time the most for is Zoro.
Zoro’s defeat is heavy, and the time to grow closer is short
Zoro and Mihawk’s confrontation demonstrates why it is important to protect the dreams of one’s companions. However, this significant defeat alone does not fully bridge the gap and foster closer relationships between Zoro and his comrades.
Mihawk is a formidable swordsman who stands before Zoro, who dreams of becoming the world’s strongest swordsman. In this confrontation, Zoro’s goal is not merely a future aspiration; it becomes a matter of risking his life.
I like that this fight doesn’t allow Zoro to easily defeat his opponent. Simply standing by Luffy doesn’t exempt him from paying the price for his dreams. Even with new companions, the challenges he must overcome remain significant.
Mackenyu conveys the difference through his body, wielding a sword to confront his opponent. When he demonstrates swordsmanship, one understands why Zoro dedicated his life to strength. This character’s determination is more evident when he moves his body than when he explains his goals with words.
Seeing Zoro’s crushing defeat, one doesn’t simply think he lost a battle. It raises concerns that if he continues to pursue his dream, he might get hurt again. After the confrontation, I was more worried about how Zoro would cope with the next danger, rather than his actual skill.
Here, Luffy’s qualifications as captain are also being tested. When supporting someone else’s dream, one must also be prepared to witness the risks that dream may bring. It is not enough to simply say that Zoro is here because he is strong; this does not fully explain the nature of their relationship.
Zoro does not give up his dream, even in defeat. Instead, the person who was trying to become stronger alone chooses companionship with Luffy. The direction of moving forward while maintaining one’s own goals is clearly still viable.
What is regrettable is the face that conveys that choice. Makkenyu’s restrained emotional expression fits Zoro, who clings to his dreams even after defeat. However, the range of expressions is limited, making it difficult to portray a significant change in his feelings towards his companions.
The contrast in demeanor when Luffy and Zoro interact highlights their personality differences. A person who is naturally cheerful doesn’t necessarily need to force a smile just to match someone who is more reserved. I won’t blame the acting for Zoro’s stoic nature.
However, there is a need for a difference in how one accepts others, even within a stoic demeanor. If the expressions of someone enduring alone and someone now allowing others to be close are too similar, the change is conveyed subtly. In a live-action version where the time spent together is short, that small difference is even more regrettable.
The drama vividly portrays the risks associated with his dream. However, it provides less opportunity to connect with the people who will share those risks. Therefore, while I understand Zoro’s determination, I cannot fully empathize with the faith that underlies that determination.
I felt less trust from Zoro, but I felt enough of it from Nami. My judgment must take this difference into account.
Despite the hasty friendship, there remain reasons to rely on each other
I conclude that they have become more than just comrades fighting together; they have become true companions. Not all of their transformations are equally convincing. However, the moment Nami asks for help and Luffy accepts, the reason for being on this ship becomes clear.
This live-action version rushes the pace at which relationships develop. However, it does not skip over the reasons why the characters would seek help from each other. The phrase “respecting other people’s dreams” is translated into actions where characters stand by each other, even in situations they cannot handle alone.
It earns 4 out of 5 points. Emily Rudd’s gradually lowered guard and Iñaki Godoy’s unabated friendliness account for that score. The quick joining-up and Zoro’s limited emotional range lowered it by leaving less time for the relationship to deepen.
If you are drawn to the process of different people gaining allies rather than unfamiliar abilities, I recommend it. Even if you are not familiar with the original work, it is worth spending time on these 8 episodes. The characters’ desires are clear, so there is no need to memorize the vast world in advance.
On the other hand, if you only want realistic appearances and abilities, it is not recommended. Even for those who enjoy dramas where relationships develop slowly, this may be too fast-paced. To enjoy this work, one must accept both the exaggerated world and the rapid formation of camaraderie.
When watching, I hope viewers focus on how Luffy treats the dreams of others, rather than simply who he defeats. The moments when Nami’s caution and Zoro’s solitary attitude change are crucial. If viewers only focus on wins and losses, they will miss what this adventure does best.
Next, we recommend the original manga, “One Piece.” It is a good way to follow at a leisurely pace the relationships that the live-action version rushed through. It is interesting to compare what is added to the story, considering the time it takes for characters to learn to trust each other, rather than simply counting the events that are missing. compare
I’m even more on board with this crew. The reason is that it is filled with people whom one can ask for help, unlike those who pretend to be strong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you watch the live-action One Piece even if you don’t know the original work?
It’s okay if you don’t know anything beforehand. Season 1 begins with Luffy meeting his companions, and clearly shows what each of them desires. Instead of trying to memorize the characters and the world setting, just follow the process of them learning to trust each other.
Where can I watch the 2023 live-action version of One Piece, and how many episodes are there?
The drama was released on Netflix, and Season 1 has a total of eight episodes. This article’s assessment covers only Season 1, which was released in 2023.
What are the differences between the live-action version and the original manga?
Introducing Aaron early and accelerating the pursuit by Garp and the Marines links several adventures into a single season. While the direction of the story became clearer for new viewers, the time available for the characters to bond was reduced. It is better to compare whether the reasons for the characters to rely on each other are still present, rather than focusing solely on the order of events.
What kind of preferences does the live-action version of One Piece appeal to?
If you enjoy stories about people with different dreams finding allies, this might be a good fit for you. However, it is not recommended for those who prefer realistic abilities and appearances, or those who expect relationships to develop slowly. This work does not shy away from its cartoonish exaggerations.
What should you watch next after seeing the live-action version?
I recommend the original manga, “One Piece.” You can follow the relationships between the characters in more detail than the live-action version, which condenses them. It’s more interesting to compare the rate at which trust builds than to look for events that are not included in the live-action version.
