One Piece More: Closing Out 2011

One of the worst things about a year ending is trying to remember everything that has happened in the last 364 days. So much has happened in a year that it feels like not much has happened. Then you try to remember it all and things get even more confusing. Why do people even try to remember everything that has happened in the last year when it is hard enough to do that in our own life?

Whatever, let’s get into this.

-Mikey

Review Piece: Haibane Renmei (Secret Santa)

In the Beginning…

…There were angels born from giant cocoons. Imagine my surprise when the series Haibane Renmei begins with no apparent conflict. Mystery and secrets abound, but they aren’t serious plot devices, and so the viewer begins to wonder where the conflict lies. This is the central idea of the series: it has no larger conflict; the conflict is only revealed in the concluding episode of the series. A few minor conflicts occur, which deeply affect the plot and drastically change the tone of the anime in a short period of time, but the tender message of the story does not change as a result, but is rather strengthened as more truth comes to light.

This series is Haibane Renmei, an anime based on a doujinshi comic series created by Abe Yoshitoshi in 1998. The series débuted and ended in 2002 with 13 episodes, categorized as drama/fantasy. For the Reverse Thieves’ annual ‘Secret Santa’ project, this is the anime I chose to review for the end of the year.

Manga: Chapter 649 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Get ready to party! Get Viz's One Piece or read online at Jmanga.com!

Manga: Chapter 648 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

You too can be cool like Jinbei! Buy One Piece from Viz or JManga! :D

Anime: Straw Hat Reunion Arc- Episode 521

The face of the next King of the pirates is only on OnePieceOfficial.com.

First Thoughts

One of the most enjoyable parts of the episode is the Marines. Though they brought Pacifistas, which I do not support; this was one of the few times the Marines fight truly “bad” pirates. Another memorable scene I enjoyed was of Sentomaru’s speech about Luffy. I didn’t expect that he would defend Luffy’s honor as he did, because he is Luffy’s foe. Because of this action, Sentomaru reminds me of Smoker.

The idiocy of the fake Straw Hats is frustrating, and I am certainly glad to be rid of them. Another excellent scene of the episode was when Sentomaru called out the imposter, and everyone was shocked. Sentomaru is no fool, and I should have expected no less from his sharp mind. He has fought Luffy before.

Manga: Chapter 645, 646, and 647 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Read Viz's One Piece or read online at JManga.com

Introduction:

I have been editing this site since August and I have yet to contribute an article of my own.  Though I am running late, I’d like to give you my review of the last three serialized chapters of One Piece. One Piece up to this point has been a wonderful Odyssey through the imagination of Eiichiro Oda. I have found it to be an inspirational work of fiction since I’ve discovered it in the later months of 2007. It has remained a constant reminder to me that friendship and adventure will always exist in this world.

        I cannot give an entirely unbiased review of this work of fiction as a whole, but I can take it apart and reevaluate my feelings about each particular chapter as an individual work of  art. With two chapters having been released since I came upon this assignment, I decided to analyze the three together over common themes. The common theme that is most obvious to me is that the Straw Hat Crew has overwhelmed their previous super humanity for bolder abilities required in the New World.

Anime: Straw Hat Reunion Arc- Episode 520

Cool down with a new episode of One Piece! Watch it on OnePieceOfficial.com!

First Thoughts
Brook has really been playing up the rock star personality. I guess that when you are a rock star, dumping a bottle of water on yourself is normal. This must have been portrayed in a different show but I can't remember where. Either way, this was clearly a Brook episode.

This episode had other noteworthy moments but Brook was the focal point. You did see a scene featuring Caribou’s brutality and some awesome moments with Franky but those moments weren’t the first things I remembered about this episode.

Whatever the reason, Brook the Rock Star was the reason why we watched this episode.

Anime: Straw Hat Reunion Arc- Episode 519

Franky is a pretty good model. I am in full support of him getting onto the cover of “Mega Men Monthly”. See this (and more?) on OnePieceOfficial.com.

First Thoughts

Although not sure as to what I should suspect for this episode, the return of the familiar bickering between Zoro and Sanji is a welcome relief. As for Chopper, well, I just hope he will not get himself in too far over his little furry head. He is so innocent, the only Straw Hat in no real danger and it made him even more trusting which in this case, could be disastrous. Chopper should have let the secret agents go, as they would provide a nice distraction for Robin, even if she didn’t particularly need it. I just worry for Chopper’s safety, and hope that he will find his real friends soon. Now, the only thing left to do is to watch the episode. That shouldn’t be too hard.

Manga: No New Chapter This Week (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS!!! SPOILERS!!! SPOILERS!!!

Don't get scared! Read some of Viz's One Piece or read online at Jmanga.com!

Manga: Chapter 644 Review (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

"To Zero." Buy the manga at Viz Media or read the back issues of manga at JManga.

Manga: Chapter 643 Review (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Get what you need! Buy Viz's One Piece today or read on JManga.com!

---

Anime: Straw Hat Reunion Arc- Episode 518

Marry yourself to OnePieceOfficial.com to watch your One Piece episodes! Updates weekly!

First Thoughts

This week's episode felt a bit weak compared to the episode from last week. You may have noticed that there was a lot of filler material in the episode. Filler material isn't a bad thing but it can be bad because  it can slow the pace of the episode. If you didn’t notice a slow pace then please let me know.

It is unfortunate because this episode has some good moments in it.

News Piece: Season 4 is Coming

Well guys it's finally happening, the awesome guys at the Unofficial One Piece Podcast have officially announced via a well marketed podcast special, that Season 4 has been officially licensed by Funimation. For those of you who don't know, Season 4 contains portions of several story arcs. The Davy Back Fight arc pits the Straw Hats in a series of challenges against the Foxy Pirates. the Ocean's Dream arc based on a One Piece videogame in which the Straw Hats lose their memories work together to regain them.

The very popular Water 7 arc largely featured in Season 4 depicts the Straw Hats in some of their worst hours. It practically has some of the most important and darkest moments in the entire history of One Piece in my own personal opinion. But in terms of overall narrative, it introduces the future shipwright of the Straw Hat Pirates, Franky.

I'm absolutely excited about this. Water 7 is one of my favorite arcs and hearing it in dubbed English will be an amazing experience. The prospect of the Funi voice actors speaking these famous lines makes me quiver. By the way, Funimation seemed to have licensed 58 episodes so far, but considering the fact that this arc is so popular, and the fact that apparently unlike the Japanese DVDs, these are in widescreen and HD. That alone is going to pave the road for Season 5. Funimation haven't stated a release date but my guess is going to be the summer of 2012 or possibly the fall.

So now that I've said my piece, what are your thoughts on Funimation finally giving the fans what they want? Please post your comments below and let's just sit back and enjoy, knowing that Patrick Seitz may be voicing Franky like in the Unlimited Adventure game. It will be great.

Written by Neku:

Edited by Dsaftler.

Anime: Straw Hat Reunion Arc- Episode 517

Accept no substitutes! Go into the New World with OnePieceOfficial.com

 

First Thoughts

Because Mikey is so swamped with his reviews (imagine, a whole review dedicated to the 15^th opening!) I, Sora, was asked to handle the review of episode 517. My response was joyful and full of glee. It is such a great honor to be reviewing this episode today. I never dreamed I would get this chance, and the idea never crossed my mind once I had scheduled out the turns we each take. This was an amazing episode, and one of the best in a while (and that is saying something considering how great all the episodes have been as of late.) Plus, this gave me a decent reason to re-watch the episode. Just one viewing is not enough for an episode of such quality.

One Piece More: Oni Con 2011 + Panel

I hope everybody in the Houston/Galveston Area is excited because this weekend is Oni Con 2011.

The anime convention is taking place over October 28th though the 30th. It will be at the Galveston Island Convention Center. You will have to travel a little farther compare d to Oni Cons in the past,  but anything is better than where it was last year.

Oni Con has a few noteworthy guests this year such as the Earthbound Papas featuring Nobuo Uematsu (Formally known as The Black Mages), Chris and Greg Ayres, and Clarine Harp. You may have heard of Nobuo Uematsu for because of his musical contributions to the Final Fantasy video game series. The Ayres Brothers and Clarine Harp have played a few roles within the Funimation One Piece dub.

Want your One Piece fix at Oni Con? Then I welcome you to the One Piece Fan Panel hosted by this very blog. The panel will be on Sunday in Panel Room 2 at 1 pm. We will be discussing the latest manga chapter and prizes will be given out. Overall, a great time is to be expected.

See you at Oni Con.

-Mikey

KND/One Piece Fanart (Follow Up)

You may remember in August that a piece of fanart by Codename: Kids Next Door creator, Tom Warburton, was showcased on the site. The reason why I am bringing this up is because Mr. Warburton noticed the article and the suggestions for who could be Nami. Below is what he had to say:

"If you read the comments, there are some thoughts regarding Numbuh 86 standing in for Nami, the Straw Hat's navigator.

I LIKE that idea. "

The suggestion that Numbuh 86 stand in for Nami was so appreciated by Mr. Warburton that he decided to draw it. This was all because of your suggestions and beyond anything I expected. Mr. Warburton did a great job in drawing Numbuh 86 as Nami. You can see that he drew one of Nami's famous expressions while she carries her Perfect Climatact.

You can head over to Mr. Warburton's site in order to view the full size image of his artwork.

Manga: Chapter 642 (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Surfs up! Read Viz's One Piece or read online at JManga.com!

Anime: Opening 15- We Go!

We all go to OnePieceOfficial.com!

First Thoughts
You may have noticed that Episode 517 was full of action. Normally discussion of a new title sequence is within the anime review of the episode it premiered in. This time the review will be broken into two parts.

Episode 517 premiered Opening 15, “We Go,” the spiritual successor to “We Are.” It is fitting because the series is starting at the beginning in a way. The new theme is opening that will start a new chapter in the series.

So how about we go into this review!

Manga: Chapter 641 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Don't panic yet! You can still get One Piece from Viz or read online at JManga!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 516

 

The new era announced its entrance at OnePieceOfficial.com. 

Be there. (I was!)

First Thoughts

I confused dates and I forgot that the new opening was not playing this week, but debuting next week. Oh well, I was almost the first to review the new opening. However, next weekend may be the true beginning of the New World Saga, but important points will be shown in this episode. Big events are occurring, if only to part the waters to the New World. It will be really cool to see the next episode, nonetheless.

Manga: No New Chapter

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Jimbei is going to get serious! You should too. Buy Viz's One Piece or read at JManga!

Manga: Chapter 640 (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

SKULL JOOOOOOOKE time with One Piece! Buy it from Viz and JManga today!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 515

 

Run! There are new episodes of One Piece at OnePieceOfficial.com

Thoughts

This was a great episode to watch the first time through. Every scene felt meaningful and added another layer of depth to the characters that were focused on in this episode.

Then I had a second viewing of this episode. It was not as fun to watch and I wanted to skip to the highlights. This does not occur often when I re-watch episodes. Maybe it is because I know that cool things are in store very soon and that all of this is just set up.

The revelation at the end of the episode had the same impact through both viewing. I will get to that later in the post.

Also a reminder, next week is the premiere of Opening 15, We Go.

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 514

Ahh! It was my face! They do things right at OnePieceOfficial.com. Just not today. It burns…

First Thoughts

I was not sure what this episode would portray, to be quite honest. With all of the talk about the 15^th opening coming soon, I haven’t paid much attention to other One Piece related discussion in a week or so. However, I was quite curious to see how Nami would wrangle herself back on good terms with the little old men in the clouds, and Franky is always fun to watch (except right now, because he blew up priceless technology and information. He blew himself up as well.) However, I have to admit, Fate has found a way to hurt me once more. Again, I am stuck reviewing Sanji’s segment on Peachy Island. Oh, my pain…my terrible, terrible pain…

Manga: Chapter 639 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

No need to fight! One Piece Vol 58 from Viz is out now! Read online at JManga!

Manga: Chapter 638 (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

I believe Luffy's been playing Sonic...not sure how I know. Read Viz's and JManga's One Piece!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 512

What did you just say? Is it about my face? Oh no, it is just this great episode at OnePieceOfficial.com. Silly me.

First Thoughts

This episode ended up being quite excellent. It spotlighted a wide variety of characters, and conveyed a lot of information that was very interesting to hear. Not a lot of time was spent in any one location either, so I did not have to worry all that much about being immersed in a (bleh) pink landscape as much as I had initially imagined. Still, this was a fantastic episode, and I loved it. Every moment of the episode was incredible fun, and there was never a dull moment. This was an awesome episode through and through, especially involving the depiction of the ending. It was an instant classic.

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 513

Don't sleep during the action! Watch new episodes of One Piece on OnePieceOfficial.com!

First Thoughts 
Whoever that is in charge of merchandising for One Piece needs to get to work on creating a huge Bepo pillow. I would be willing to import one just so I can have it in my room. There will be many fans who would do the same. Screw all of those Chopper merchandise. We need more Bepo merchandise.

This episode moved pretty fast. I was very surprise to see how much was covered before the eyecatcher came. It was kind of strange since I thought we were only one-fourth though the episode when the eyecatacher appeared. It turns out that we were already at the fourteen minute mark. That is a sign of a good episode.

I still want a giant Bepo pillow.

Manga: Chapter 637 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Don't lose your head! You can read One Piece from Viz or online at JManga!

New Funimation Survey

I just wanted to help spread the word about a new Funimation Survey. The survey is mostly about how you buy your anime. If you do not buy anime then Funimation wants to know why. The anime company wants to know how to better serve you, the anime fan.

I suggest everybody take advantage of this and make your voice heard. Funimation does pay attention to these surveys as we saw a year ago. Because of the survey from a year ago, Funimation is trying to add a few new extras to their DVD sets. We had a One Piece focused survey back in July. I would guess we should see the results of that survey early next year.

One Piece fans make your voice be heard. While you are at it, make sure to give this blog a mention. Question 17 asks you which anime websites do you visit, so that would be a good time to give this blog a plug.

New Funimation Survey

Written by: Mikey
Edited by: Dsaftler

Two Year Anniversary- Believe

~People tell me my head's in the clouds; I don't care what they say because I'm dreamin' of you; You are the treasure I've found; So bright, so bold yet so elusive.

Another year has passed and it is hard to believe that this blog is now two years old. A good amount of things have stayed the same while a few things have changed. I would like to believe all the change is for the better, but even I know that isn't completely true. In any case things are surely looking up.

-Mikey 

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 511

Be cool like Raleigh! Watch One Piece on OnePieceOfficial.com!

First Thoughts
Alright Rayleigh. Alright. You are cool now. You are cool. You used to be some old dude for whom I did not care much. Still, if you are going to shoot bullets at cannonballs and the cannonballs explode in midair, then you have my seal of approval. This little moment made me a believer in Rayleigh.

This episode is proof that the anime production can introduce entertaining filler material. I never really had a problem with filler material. As long as the material is not outlandish or it does not last too long, then it is okay. One Piece seems to avoid extraneous filler material, which is positive for the continued appeal of the series. In this case the material expanded upon the manga’s depicted plot .

Also we got to see Rayleigh do cool things. That is always nice.

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 510

This was my expression when I learned I had to do another episode with Sanji on Kamabakka Island. We share our feelings at OnePieceOfficial.com.

First Thoughts

I was a bit unsure at first, after all, I had a pretty tough week last week and so I had to skip episode 509 and go straight to this one, but I still think it turned out okay. No, the only real problem I had with this episode is only very personal. Every time, it seems, that Sanji’s adventures on the island of the Okamas is shown, I get stuck working that episode. Why, cruel fate, must ye plague me so with the utmost tortures of heck? On the other hand, at least the extreme cuteness of the giant fluffy chicks (and Chopper too) got me through, haha! I did greatly enjoy the surprise of Robin’s part showing up. I missed last week’s episode, so I didn’t know Robin was going to be in this episode. That was really great; I love doing Robin’s part! The episode turned out really excellently, I feel, and I really enjoyed watching every part of it (well, maybe besides the pink island, but only a little~).

Manga: Chapter 636 (Spoilers!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Awesome moments like this and more in Viz's One Piece. Buy the volumes here!

One Piece More: The End of Summer

Summer is coming to a close. It’s time to put away those beach towels and take out the books. That is if you go to school. School is very important. You learn very valuable things and not all of it comes from textbooks. School is a life experience that is important to the development of the mind. It is a time where you can experiment and afford to make mistakes. The idea of school helps provide structure to one's life: School and Summer Vacation. Pretty great set up. It helps dictate your life and helps improves it.

Because once school is gone.....You enter a new world.

-Mikey

Manga: Chapter 635 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Why you want to run? Read some One Piece from Viz or online at JManga.com!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 509

Have you seen this man? You can find him by watching One Piece on OnePieceOfficial.com

First Thoughts 
This episode had a lot of cool things to look at. Zoro himself is cool to watch and add a bit of Mihawk and Perona you have a party! Then we have Brook who is always a riot.

To tell the truth, I so really enjoyed watching this episode the first time around but it does not seem to do well in reruns. Either way it was a fun episode to watch as we get bits of information here and there via Mihawk.

Manga: No New Chapter + KND/One Piece Fanart

No Chapter? No Problem! Pick up One Piece volumes from Viz to read the adventure!

Out of respect for the Obon Festival in Japan, there will be no Weekly Shonen Jump which means no new One Piece chapter. Obon is a three day holiday to honor the departed spirits of dead relatives. Many at this time in Japan celebrate the holiday by holding a family reunion and performing rituals that are part of this festival which include cleaning the graves of dead loved ones.

So to help you with your lack of One Piece this week, I thought I would share this little gem that I found in the September edition of Shonen Jump magazine. Apparently One Piece fans can be anybody including famous cartoonists. Check after the break for the full scanned version of this cool fanart.

Reminder: One Piece Meet Up

Spread the word! The One Piece Meet Up is coming!

A change in the date was made due to an anime convention that was happening the same weekend. This change in date can only help in making the event even better. Things will go down this Saturday, August 13th at the University of Houston! 3:00 pm is the time.

So bring your cosplays and yourself. Don't have a cosplay? Then still come out, because we are going to have games in the form of a Davy Back Fight! Prizes will be given out to winners and pictures will be taken. Parking will be free for all that attend. The indoor part will be in the University Center's Underground area. The indoor area maybe the best place to meet since things look to be a bit hot this weekend in Houston.

Once things are done there then feel free to come to the after party! Expect fun to be had there but details are going to be secret.

Head over to the Facebook page to RSVP and go over details. Let me know if you are coming either there or in the comments. Hope to see you there!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 508

Franky believes he is especially SUPER this week. I care to disagree. See why at OnePieceOfficial.com. Be there, or be a weather-studying wizard-dressing scientist.

First Thoughts

Well, I was really sad (for personal reasons), because I got interrupted while just starting this episode, so I had to wait a few extra days before getting back to it. So sadness there on my part while having to wait on such a good thing. On the other hand, I have given this episode an honorary title: Being Mean to Old-Dudes. First with Nami especially…but then even Franky was mean a bit too…but I have decided that I really like all of the old-dudes in this episode. Yup, I love all of the old, wizard-dudes on Weatheria now. They are so sweet and awesome~ And that Kitton kid’s grandpa is really nice too~ Yay~! Seeing Vegapunk’s laboratory was, in a word, an honor. It really stuck me though, and I am not quite sure on how to feel about the end of the episode right now though.

Oh yeah, and I checked out what Mikey started last week for the new format on the Posts, and I wasn’t quite sure how to re-create that in my own way yet, so I just tried my best with it. Okay~

Manga: Chapter 634 (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Theres an ocean of love out there for One Piece. Support by buying from Viz today!

Manga: Chapter 633 (SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Don't cry! You can buy One Piece volumes from Viz! TODAY!

Review Piece: One Piece Collection 1

One Piece Collection 1 Review

"The epic sets sail…

It is the era of adventure, as countless souls are lured along the Grand Line in pursuit of dreams far greater than any they’ve ever dared to imagine. Wealth, fame, power… It’s all available for the taking to the lucky soul that can find it: The legendary One Piece. Among those on the high seas is a youth on a quest to be king of them all – Luffy, the Straw Hat Pirate! But first he must find a ship, a crew and some supplies. Determined to recruit those at first unwilling to his cause, the young captain remains undaunted… "

Manga: No Chapter This Week (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Time to take bets! Speaking of! Bet on Viz for your One Piece Manga!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 507

Be passionate about your love! Watch the newest episodes of One Piece on OnePieceOfficial.com

First Thoughts
You know....it is scenes like the one above that help 'inspire' the boob fan art that you see all over the place. The ones where you see characters with SUPER huge boobs that in no way is possible in real life and totally look wrong.

Also those are some very badly drawn breast on Hancock. Even worse then what you see in the boob fan art.

Then again it was counterbalance by Rayleigh's manliness. So it all worked out.

Mikey's Note: Trying out something different with this post. Just play along and let me know what you think about this format. Maybe I continue this for future anime posts.

Manga: Chapter 632 (SPOILERS!)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Thats right guys, One Piece is PEOPLE!...or not XD. Buy Viz's One Piece today!

Anime: Post Marineford Arc- Episode 506

Yup. It is Franky. Doin’ his Franky-thing~GREAT. Back to his Cola-powered self at OnePieceOfficial.com. Be there.

First Thoughts

Well, my first thought was WOAH. My second was OH WOW. Yup, I am so sophisticated with my vocabulary. But still, I didn't know what to expect for the episode. I never did get to hear about the crew's reactions to this news, and it certainly was interesting, to say the very least. Also adding in a bit more on what went down on each of their islands was really useful information as well. I was appreciative of that part. Of course, I do believe that my absolute favorite part was at the very end, the last few seconds. It was...so completely different than the feel of the rest of the episode. Of course, Zoro's reaction was my favorite of all the Strawhats. Seeing them all get the news in a different manner was really excellent; it was different and cool, a good combination of spontanious-ness and normal news-bird delivery...hahaha~

News Piece: Restaurant in Japan!

Hello Everyone! Welcome to One Piece At A Time Blog's first weekly  News Piece! Sometime each week, I will be giving you guys the latest news from Japan to America to keep you guys updated on every thing One Piece related! So without further ado, let's start!

One Piece Meet Up

People in the Houston area and who can afford to make it to Houston! There will be a One Piece meet up happening on August 6th. The meet up will be at 3:00 pm at the University of Houston. Time for the One Piece fans of the Houston area to come together and show how much they love One Piece. Details after the break.

Manga: Chapter 631(SPOILERS)

SPOILERS! SPOILERS! SPOILERS!

Be incredible too! Get One Piece Manga from Viz!