Released By: Manga Entertainment
Rating: 12
Running Time: 250 Mins
Audio: English DD 5.1 Surround with Japanese Stereo & English Subs
Release Date: 17/2/2014
Reviewed By: Sandra Scholes
From the punchy music at the start you know you are going to have a fun anime and none more so than when Luffy and company get to Arabaster only to find that everyone is fighting each other, and the war between two factions could tear their friendship apart. In "Luffy vs Vivi! The Tearful Vow to Put Friends on the Line!" Luffy is stuck with a man who is digging to find water, but they argue just like the other members of the Straw Hat pirates.
The general premise for this collection is a mixed bag of tales and posible outcomes; Crocodile and his men want to take over Alabasta, Sandman wants a precious object while Princess Vivi wants to be released from Crocodile's evil influence. Only one man (straw hat pirate) can help her get away and it's Luffy who has to go one on one with him to prove his point that he can't have everything he wants or desires.
If adventure is what you like to see in an anime, this is one of the best out there, but just as there are fans of One Piece, there are those who might not find this to their interest. It does have a peculiar yet likeable cast, and there is a lot of humour in the episodes, but some episodes as in the previous collection might shock as they are a little violent. This might come as a surprise to some viewers, but to those used to anime, they will know that an anime series isn't always for young children as they do feature adult themes of violence. What violence is in this is good enough to show the younger set that adventure doesn't always come with success, that there is always someone out there who will want what you have, and that is where Sandman comes in as he has set his sights on his own personal goal, and doesn't care who he hurts as long as he gets his grubby hands on it.
The world of Arabaster is a huge one to be sure with its Arabian inspired setting, places, landmarks and people. So huge that this collection's setting is based entirely within it. To be honest with all the trouble the straw hats are in, I'm surprised they can smile so big at all, but that just goes to show what plucky guys and gals they are. we know Princess Vivi will be okay, but that something bad will happen right at the end to keep us guessing as we're ready for the next collection.
Contains episodes 104-130.
Bonus Material: Episode 114 Sworn on a Friend's Dream! The Battle of Molehill, Block 4! Commentary, Text less Opening - Believe! Text less Closing - Shouchirosuke, Episode 119 Secret of Powerful Swordplay! Ability to Cut Steel and The Rhythm Things Have! Commentary, Text less Opening - Hikari E! and Text less Closing - Shining Ray!
Verdict: Luffy and co take us to new heights with this series - enjoy the ride, it'll be a fun one!
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