One Piece Film Red 4K SteelBook Blu-ray

Disc 1 – The Movie

When it comes to One Piece films, two styles reign supreme. There are summaries of existing arcs, like The Desert Princess and the Pirates: Adventures in Alabasta, and fresh narratives introducing new characters to save and villains to vanquish. One Piece: Red slides comfortably into the latter, bringing with it a mix of triumphs and pitfalls.

The familiar negative looms large—emotional turmoil for a young girl. Uta’s heartbreaking past offers an overabundance of sorrow. The World Government’s cruelty, her mentor’s obsessions, and Shanks’ well-meaning choices render Uta deeply scarred. Oda explains this as a necessity for character growth in his SBS column, but it feels unsettling to exploit children’s suffering for emotional depth.

In One Piece: Red, Uta’s tragic journey continues. This once jubilant singer for Shanks’ crew is left to study music with a stranger. She blames herself for a nation’s destruction. These experiences push her to extreme measures in her pursuit of a dream, no matter how delusional. In this story, Uta embodies both the rescue subject and formidable foe.

A Melodic Adventure

Yet, the film offers many positives. As with most One Piece movies, it’s a delight to reunite with familiar faces. Trafalgar Law, Bepo, and Bartolomeo are part of the mix. Koby and Helmeppo identify Cipher Pol agents, raising the stakes. The Navy dispatches its most merciless Admirals. Each battle becomes a thrilling throwback to the War of the Paramount. The credits bring back beloved characters, offering glimpses into their current lives.

The film also boasts outstanding direction from Gorō Taniguchi. Musical sequences feature Vocaloid-style production, and Ado’s voice gives life to Uta’s songs. “New Genesis,” a hauntingly beautiful piece, will linger long after the credits roll. “I’m Invincible” presents Uta’s spiral into madness as she demands pirates abandon their ways.

With the Wano arc introducing new animation techniques, visuals are both intense and mesmerizing. CGI backgrounds offer vibrant and colorful designs, particularly in Elegia’s ruins. Every battle is a visual feast.

Disc 2 Bonus Tracks

Disc 1 focuses on the movie, while Disc 2 delves into the backstory. Newcomers to the One Piece universe might consider watching them in reverse order. We dive into Uta’s relationship with Luffy’s mentor, Shanks, and scrutinize the motives behind her actions.

In “A New Genesis," we glimpse child Luffy under a town’s care. When Shanks introduces his "daughter" Uta, a connection forms. Their friendship flourishes as they share dreams and compete.

Subsequent episodes explore the Strawhat crew’s childhoods, while the Five Elders of the World Government discuss Shanks. A chilling conversation centers on Elegia’s destruction and “Tot Musica’s” danger. On the Sunny Go, Luffy learns about Uta’s concert, sparking the crew’s excitement. The episode concludes with Uta’s ominous proclamation of a new genesis.

“The Captain’s Log of the Legend! ‘Red-Haired” Shanks!” finds Koby and Helmeppo seeking information on Uta. Helmeppo speculates Shanks destroyed Elegia, but Koby remains unconvinced. They discuss how Shanks safeguarded Koby, ended the war, and negotiated peace. A flashback to Windmill Village rekindles the legendary bond between Luffy and Shanks.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The animation in these episodes aligns with the serialized anime, albeit with less resolution than the film. Though scattered, these stories lay the groundwork for the movie and the forthcoming Egghead arc. The Five Elders’ deceitful willingness to conceal atrocities deepens the intrigue.

The Blu-ray’s interface presents minor challenges. Utilizing my player’s audio and subtitle controls proved easier than using the menu. Although my preference leans towards the Japanese audio track, the dub’s excellence surprised me. Colleen Clinkenbeard’s performance as Luffy is exceptional.

So, should you pick up the One Piece: Red Steelbook? Absolutely. For an additional cost, compared to the Blu-ray, you’ll be primed for a cinematic experience, presuming your technology matches the 4K requirements. Pair it with popcorn and friends for a thrilling adventure.