Netflix’s latest live-action anime adaptation, “One Piece,” has shattered records and defied expectations, rising to the top spot in 84 different countries within days of its release.
This achievement surpasses the previous records set by “Wednesday,” a reimagining of the Addams Family, and the beloved sci-fi series “Stranger Things,” both of which reached the number one spot in 83 territories during their initial weekends of release.
The “One Piece” live-action series, based on Eiichiro Oda’s original manga, has been praised by fans for breaking the often-criticized trend of underwhelming anime adaptations. Netflix has previously attempted to adapt over a dozen popular anime properties, including “Cowboy Bebop” and “Death Note,” but most of these efforts received a lukewarm reception from fans and critics alike.
Eiichiro Oda, the creator of the original “One Piece” manga, expressed his initial concerns about the transition to live-action in an open letter earlier this year. He marveled at the challenging process of bringing the vibrant and fantastical world of “One Piece” into reality, acknowledging the dedication of the actors, the meticulous set and costume designs, and the collaborative effort that made the project possible.
Oda also admitted that numerous scenes had to be re-shot because he felt they didn’t meet the high standards he had set for the series. He acknowledged that some fans might raise concerns about missing characters or deviations from the manga’s storyline but believed that such criticisms would stem from a deep love for the source material.
In “One Piece,” viewers follow the adventures of a diverse group of pirates in search of a legendary treasure, and the live-action adaptation’s success serves as a testament to the dedication and creativity of the production team. With this record-breaking achievement, “One Piece” has not only charmed fans but also demonstrated that live-action adaptations of beloved anime can indeed defy the odds and capture the essence of the original material.
In a world where live-action anime adaptations have often fallen short, “One Piece” stands as a shining example of what can be achieved with the right combination of talent, dedication, and respect for the source material. As it continues to dominate Netflix’s rankings, it’s clear that the legacy of
