Warning: This article contains spoilers for Netflix's live-action One Piece series.
Summary
In the live-action One Piece series on Netflix, the big revelation about Luffy's family, specifically that Garp is his grandfather, was unveiled earlier than in the manga. This decision was made in order to draw comparisons and intensify the consequences. By giving Garp a more prominent role in the first season, the series was able to delve into the workings of the Marines within the world of One Piece and create a more emotionally impactful narrative.
Garp's increased presence and familial connection in season 1 of One Piece's live-action adaptation differed from the manga, but it brought an overarching threat and a broader perspective on the world. This has led fans to expect more changes in potential season 2. Co-showrunner Steven Maeda explains why the Netflix series decided to reveal the big Luffy family revelation earlier than in the manga. The series follows the early adventures of young pirate Monkey D. Luffy, played by Iñaki Godoy, as he embarks on a journey to search for a legendary treasure. The adaptation has received critical acclaim and been well-received by both new and longtime audiences.
The Netflix live-action adaptation of One Piece chose to reveal that Garp, the formidable vice-admiral of the World Government's Marine forces, was Luffy's grandfather during episode 4, "THE PIRATES ARE COMING". This decision was made to establish parallels between Luffy and Marine hopeful Koby, and to explain Garp's interest in Luffy's exploits. The purpose of this change was to maintain tension and create a sense of high stakes throughout the series. Garp's character was not heavily featured in the first 100 chapters, but the decision to include him as a pursuing antagonist added to the overall narrative.
In the middle of the season, a major revelation occurs with Garp - "Grandpa?". In the manga, Garp's true identity as a grandfather is not revealed until chapter 300-something, but in the anime, it is done differently. The timing of this reveal is exactly at the halfway point of the season, as it centers around the theme of protecting Garp. It also showcases Garp's feelings of failure as he tries to teach and guide his grandson.
Similar to Luffy, Koby represents the Marine counterpart. He is a young individual who desires to become a Marine, just as fervently as Luffy aspires to be a pirate. It is a remarkable parallel to have them on similar paths, with a friendly connection, but ultimately finding themselves on opposite sides.
Garp's Expanded Role In One Piece Season 1 Helped Explore How The Marines Operate In The Series' World
Koby, initially an ally of Luffy in One Piece, eventually found himself on the opposite side of the law due to their conflicting dreams. Initially, Koby believed that the Marines were a force for good and that pirates were cruel. However, his encounters with Helmeppo and his discovery of the connection between the Pirate Warlords and the World Government blurred his perspective. Nevertheless, under Garp's guidance, Koby learned how to navigate these systems while staying true to himself, ultimately becoming a respectable Marine in his own eyes.
Additionally, Koby's influence on Garp's perspective on his relationship with his grandson was significant. Garp had initially discouraged Luffy's dreams and tried to push him into becoming a Marine, but this was out of concern for Luffy's future. Garp intervened to prevent fatal actions and took pride in witnessing Luffy's accomplishments. However, through Koby challenging his beliefs, a heartfelt conversation with Zeff about the next generation, and a final clash with Luffy, Garp finally acknowledged Luffy's readiness to face the world in his own unique way by the end of One Piece season 1.
Garp's expanded role and family ties in One Piece season 1 brought about significant changes compared to the manga. Nevertheless, this new storyline effectively contributed to a more comprehensive narrative, presenting a broader view of the world and intensifying the emotional impact. As fans eagerly anticipate a possible second season, the question remains: what other alterations might be in store for One Piece?