Netflix's One Piece Cliffhanger Ending Explained by Showrunner
The main villain of the second season has already been revealed.
Longtime fans of the original Japanese manga were initially apprehensive about Netflix's decision to adapt One Piece into a live-action series. However, the involvement of author Eiichiro Oda in the production assuaged their concerns, and they viewed the project without much prejudice. Those who originally expressed reservations about the project are now thanking the streaming giant. The first season of One Piece rapidly became a smash hit, and rightfully so. The writers not only captured the thrilling, adventurous spirit of the original but also added some fresh and effective tweaks to the manga's winning formula.
However, without official confirmation from Netflix, fans are somewhat anxious that the popular pirate show may not be renewed for a second season despite its stellar ratings. However, the first season's cliffhanger ending suggests that creator Steven Maeda is confident about the renewal.
Main Villain Revealed
In the final moments of the first season, a shadowy figure holding two cigars is seen setting Luffy's Wanted poster on fire. Despite the lack of distinctive features, fans were able to instantly identify this mysterious person.
It appears that the main villain of the upcoming season will be none other than Smoker, a Navy Vice Admiral and one of Luffy's most formidable enemies in the early chapters of One Piece. This highly dangerous villain possesses the power of the devil fruit that enables him to control and weaponise smoke.
Right Way To Use Cliffhangers
Although fans generally despise cliffhanger endings to seasons, it seems that the writers of One Piece have managed to pull off this controversial tactic, building up fans' expectations without leaving them desperate for more. By revealing the villain of the upcoming season, the writers successfully heightened fans' expectations without disclosing too much about what's going to happen next.
'You know what, there were many discussions about cliffhangers for the ending. I'll leave it at that. There were a lot of discussions, and it was a question of how to best set up a potential season two. I think that as long as you get the idea that this adventure can continue and that people get excited thinking about the possibilities, then mission accomplished,' Maeda said.
Source: GamesRadar +.