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One Piece: Strong World, holds a special place in the franchise's cinematic history as the first film with a completely original story penned by Eiichiro Oda himself. This direct involvement from the creator is evident throughout the movie, resulting in a narrative that feels both grand in scope and deeply connected to the core themes and character dynamics of the series. Strong World delivers a classic One Piece adventure, complete with a compelling antagonist, breathtaking action, and a genuine sense of peril for the Straw Hat crew.

Oda's direct involvement shines through in the seamless integration of the film into the One Piece timeline (taking place between the Thriller Bark and Sabaody Archipelago arcs). The character interactions and the overall tone feel consistent with the manga and anime. The pacing is well-managed, allowing for moments of humor, character development, and intense action sequences to unfold naturally.

"Golden Lion" Shiki stands out as one of the most memorable antagonists in the One Piece film series. His charismatic yet menacing presence, his unique Devil Fruit power (allowing him to manipulate anything he touches and make it float), and his historical significance within the One Piece world make him a truly formidable opponent.

Strong World boasts impressive animation quality for its time. The environments of Merveille are beautifully rendered, showcasing the fantastical and often dangerous flora and fauna. The action sequences are dynamic and well-choreographed, making full use of Shiki's floating abilities and the Straw Hats' diverse fighting styles. The character designs remain faithful to Oda's style while benefiting from the cinematic treatment. The film effectively captures the grand scale of Shiki's ambitions and the perilous nature of his domain.

While Strong World is largely praised, some viewers might find the initial abduction plot point a somewhat familiar trope. However, the film quickly moves beyond this setup to explore the unique setting of Merveille and the complexities of Shiki's character. Additionally, while the supporting creatures are visually interesting, they don't receive significant character development.