Just got throufh episode 4 and really enjoying it so far. A lot of fun, great casting, some interesting changes but nothing fundamental. The heart of One Piece is definitely there
So far, surprisingly, the absolute stand out is Luffy. The actor is just a joy to watch. Natural blend of charisma and boyish charm which Luffy needs. I'm actually amazed they did so well casting Luffy as it was always going to be the hardest bit. And surprising as he was the most concerning in the early trailers. Crew casting definitely strong overall
The casting for Buggy as well was just inspired.
Visually it's stunning, effects are great. Even the CG stretching looks good more often than not. A lot of practical sets which look great. Some action scenes very good, some could be improved.
Definitely the best anime adaptation ever which isn't a hard feat but certainly not going to be winning academy awards so far
Negatives so far would be
Kid actors not very good (not too surprising)
There's a bit of "filmed in COVID" vibe that I notice in a lot of shows. Some sequences just lacking in people or being filmed indoors
It's a little on the nose with the "being a pirate is about freedom" stuff. I get its condensed format but for me this is something Luffy always showed rather than said
Best moments of the saga still to come which could have some make or break moments. If it's an example of first season and it's a success though I hope they get the chance to further build and expand what they are doing here
First two eps I'd give an 8
Ep 3 and 4 were about a 6. But it's syrup village which was always the worst arc in the franchise