One Piece Seasons Three, Fifth Voyage

Animé and Toons
One Piece Seasons Three, Fifth Voyage
By Chris Zimmerman
June 1, 2011 - 09:36

$49.98 US
Starring: Colleen Clinkenbeard, Luci Christian, Eric Vale
Directed by: Zach Bolten
Produced by: Toei Animation
Running Time: 325 minutes
Release Date: April 19. 2011
Distributors: Funimation Entertainment

Chances are, if you’ve been following my reviews, you’ve heard of a little series called One Piece. The long-running shonen series sails on, reaching past two hundred episodes with this latest set. Funimation has churned out these discs on a consistent basis but the question that must be asked: is every set worth it? As one might expect, a good chunk of the series is made up of filler and for those coming into the series for the epic story, the episodes that diverge from that are more than anything, a disappointment.

The last volume saw the end of the Skypiea act, and as per usual Luffy and the crew managed to pull out a narrow victory and save an island nation. After their adventures in the sky, the Straw Hats continue on their voyage in the world below. Unfortunately, their journey is put on hold when they land in a marine base. Needless to say, trouble ensues.

The episodes herein take a different tact than usual, with the crew doing their best to blend in with their enemies rather than trying to clobber them. Their disguises match their personalities and provide some amusement and a breath of fresh air from the usual slam-bang battles the series is known for, although those invested in such traits won’t be left wanting by the end of the set.

This is a filler arc, and as such, isn’t essential to the viewing experience. What’s here, though entertaining, is easily skippable. Only the most diehard of fans will find this collection necessary. The arc is a light-hearted affair, providing a breather from the grim venture the crew last embarked.

For extras, Funimation’s releases have been fairly bare-bones. This time around there are a collection of trailers and clean animations as well as a commentary. While the sit-down with the staff is appreciated, considering these episodes are likely to be skipped through, one would think the company would go out of its way to entice fans with some decent bonus features, adding to the sets worth.

At this point, if you’re a fan of One Piece, chances are this release is already on your radar. If you enjoy every adventure the Straw Hats embark upon, regardless of its importance to the story, then you won’t have much to complain about here. That said, for those whose interests focus solely on the plot previously laid down in the manga, you’re money is best saved for a collection that has significance.

B-