Netflix's live-action adaptation of One Piece has been a game-changer in the world of anime adaptations, setting a new benchmark with its use of real setpieces and practical effects. However, to maintain brisk pacing and overall narrative focus, some sacrifices were necessary, including the omission of entire story arcs such as Loguetown.
In Netflix's One Piece series, Loguetown only made a brief appearance during a prologue, serving as the location for pirate captain Gold Roger's execution. While the original manga and anime included a short but engaging Loguetown arc, its absence in the live-action adaptation was a strategic decision that benefitted the series in multiple ways.
The Original Loguetown Story Arc
In the original One Piece manga and anime, the Loguetown arc marked the culmination of the East Blue Saga. It played a pivotal role in the story, serving as the falling action following the intense Arlong Park arc and wrapping up the entire East Blue Saga before the crew's journey into the Grand Line. Loguetown allowed each member of the Straw Hat crew to explore the town and experience their unique adventures. Luffy paid respects at the site of Gold Roger's execution, Zoro visited a sword shop and crossed paths with Navy officer Tashigi, while the arc also introduced or reintroduced significant characters, including Buggy the Clown and Lady Alvida, who formed an alliance against Luffy. Captain Smoker pursued the Straw Hat crew, creating tension and excitement. However, a sudden thunderstorm provided the perfect opportunity for the Straw Hats to escape, with the unexpected assistance of Luffy's father, Monkey D. Dragon.
Despite minimal worldbuilding and non-consequential fights, the Loguetown arc served as a prelude to the grand adventure that awaited the crew in the Grand Line. It introduced the idea that the world of One Piece was vast and filled with danger, teasing the presence of characters like Dragon, Smoker, and Tashigi, who would play significant roles in future arcs.
Why Netflix's One Piece Skipped the Loguetown Arc
The decision to omit the Loguetown arc in the live-action adaptation was primarily practical. The production of Netflix's One Piece series was already an expensive endeavor, and including the Loguetown arc would have strained the budget further. The producers had a specific vision for the series, which consisted of eight episodes, and they were unable to accommodate two additional episodes for the Loguetown arc. Trying to condense the arc into the existing episodes wouldn't have been feasible. The producers believed that the Loguetown arc deserved proper treatment if included or none at all.
Beyond practical considerations, there are narrative benefits to excluding the Loguetown arc. While the original arc was enjoyable, it's essential to remember that the live-action adaptation is not a direct replica of the source material. Netflix's One Piece captures the essence of the original while presenting it in a more concise and accessible format for new viewers. Adaptations have the creative freedom to rearrange, add, or remove content as needed, including dropping arcs that may feel less essential in a streamlined series.
Netflix's One Piece, in contrast to the leisurely exploration of the original, operates more like an extended movie with a focus on pacing, dialogue, character development, and dramatic arcs. The adaptation prioritizes core character stories, such as Captain Kuro, Dracule Mihawk, and notably, Arlong the fish-man. It trims filler material like the Loguetown arc and Luffy's battle against Don Krieg to create a more streamlined and cohesive experience.
By excluding the Loguetown arc, Netflix's One Piece maintains its momentum, culminating in an emotionally charged victory over Arlong. The omission allows the series to end its first season on a triumphant note, ready to embark on the next thrilling adventure as the Straw Hat crew enters the Grand Line.
Read from the source at CBR
