The Origins of Monsters
Monsters 103 Mercies Dragon Damnation | Official Trailer | Netflix
In the realm of captivating manga and anime, the name Eiichiro Oda is synonymous with the epic adventure of One Piece. However, before embarking on the journey to find the One Piece, Oda's creative genius shone brightly in the form of Monsters. This remarkable tale, brought to life by the young and talented Eiichiro Oda, stands as a testament to the captivating storytelling that would later define his illustrious career. The anime adaptation, 103 Mercies Dragon Damnation, crafted by the new animation studio E&H Production, serves as a dazzling showcase of Oda's early mastery and the studio's remarkable skill despite being one of their first works.
Promotional poster for Monsters anime adapation shows Ryuma, and two other characters from the story, including a fire breathing dragon that Ryuma is running towards.
Monsters, a canon short story within the One Piece universe, delves into the exploits of the legendary swordsman Shimotsuki Ryuma. This enthralling narrative unfolds as Zoro confronts the zombified remains of his ancient ancestor during the Thriller Bark arc, earning the former Wano samurai's black sword. The anime adaptation, helmed by the esteemed director and animator Park Sung-Hoo, embarks on a faithful journey to bring to life one of Oda's most thrilling early stories. It is a tale of adventure, honor, and the test of character in the face of monstrous adversaries.
Screenshot from Monsters anime shows Ryuma walking into a forest with his katana being held over his shoulders.
Ryuma's odyssey commences with the enigmatic wandering samurai, grappling with the harsh realities of existence. A chance encounter with a compassionate waitress and a clash with revered and skilled master swordsmen propel Ryuma into a captivating series of events. As the narrative unfolds, Ryuma's mettle and character are put to the test, culminating in a harrowing confrontation with a monstrous dragon that threatens the peace of the town. The story of Monsters offers a spellbinding glimpse into the legendary ancestor of Zoro and the compelling world in which his legacy unfolds.
Screenshot from Monsters anime shows Ryuma standing outside of a bar while a girl is seen crying on the floor on the opposite side inside of the bar.
The Artistry of Eiichiro Oda and Park Sung-Hoo
At the tender age of 19, Eiichiro Oda's prodigious talents as a mangaka blossomed, laying the foundation for his illustrious career. The inception of manga such as Monsters and Romance Dawn, the prototype of One Piece, served as an early testament to Oda's unparalleled artistry and storytelling prowess. Over the years, Oda's skills have evolved and flourished, enriching the captivating tapestry of One Piece's narrative. However, Ryuma's saga stands as a testament to the exceptional talents of another visionary artist, anime director Park Sung-Hoo.
Screenshot from Monsters anime shows a black and white image of Ryuma unsheathing his sword, drawn with think black lines.
In 2024, the anime adaptation, Monsters: 103 Mercies Dragon Damnation, made its debut as a 25-minute special on Netflix, marking a significant milestone for Park Sung-Hoo's animation studio, E&H Production. The special seamlessly weaves moments of comedy, drama, and action, expertly brought to life through stunning impact frames and an evocative score by Hiroaki Tsutsumi. Despite its brevity, the special exudes a sense of timelessness and artistry, leaving an indelible impression on its viewers. However, the short narrative of Monsters, while a testament to Oda's early brilliance, missed opportunities to further captivate the global audience of One Piece enthusiasts.
Screenshot from Monsters anime shows Ryuma putting his black bladed katana back into it's sheath as droplets of blood float in the air.
Monsters: A Standalone Marvel
The allure of Monsters lies in its ability to stand as a standalone marvel, independent of the expansive world of One Piece. While the faithful adaptation of the 1994 manga is a testament to the enduring legacy of Monsters, it missed the opportunity to interweave compelling connections to One Piece's ongoing saga. The short narrative, while a captivating exploration of Ryuma's tale, could have served as an enthralling filler arc within the anime or a series that delved deeper into the lore of One Piece's enigmatic past.
Screenshot from Monsters anime shows Ryuma looking concerned while he and Flare hid around the corner of a building.
Despite this, the anime adaptation of Monsters succeeds in doing justice to Ryuma's compelling narrative. The exceptional animation and the resonant portrayal of characters breathe life into this captivating tale. The special's conclusion leaves an indelible impression, igniting a hunger for more of Ryuma's enthralling adventures in ancient Wano. As Monsters unfolds, it not only showcases the prototype of Zoro but also introduces a host of compelling characters and narratives that lay the groundwork for the beloved cast members of One Piece.
Screenshot from Monsters anime shows Zoro sitting with his back to the frame while Ryuma's sword is resting against his front. Ryuma's corpse surrounded by a blue aura can be seen high above.
