One Piece director Megumi Ishitani reveals subtle changes to the new opening theme — and challenges the fan base to spot the difference.
One Piece director and storyboarder Megumi Ishitani just issued a challenge to one of the most ardent fanbases in anime.
Via X (formerly Twitter), Ishitani revealed that there have been subtle changes to the One Piece opening since Episode 1077, “The Curtain Falls! The Winner, Straw Hat Luffy!” that aired Sep 24. “The opening theme actually had minor changes starting from Episode 1077 last week…” Ishitani says. “I’m grateful some people noticed them. In reality, about 20 places like the colors, filming and timing have changed. Starting next week with Barto’s Secret Room, there will be one more minor change (it would be amazing if someone notices it…).”
“Barto’s Secret Room” refers to Oct 8’s episode that will air in place of Episode 1079. “Luffy-senpai Support Project! Barto’s Secret Room 4!” will recap the events of Wano from the perspective of Straw Hat ally and Luffy fanatic, Bartolomeo. Given her appearance in the previous installment and now the preview, fans can also expect O-Tama to join him. “Barto’s Secret Room 3” had previously aired in place of episode 1074.
Without intending to, Ishitani’s tweet turned into an outpouring of appreciation for the director, whose work on One Piece quickly catapulted her to one of the most recognizable names in directing. Ishitani directed the critically acclaimed Episode 1015 and has been identified as a bright spark within One Piece‘s polarizing adaptation of the “Wano” arc.
Some fans were quick to spot changes to the opening, with one spotting at least 13 of them. Aside from Ishitani’s work on episodes, she also directed One Piece‘s vibrant new opening song, “The Peak” by Sekai no Owari. This is the first new opening that fans have received since “PAINT” by I Don’t Like Mondays nearly two years ago. Episode 1071 also marked the first new ending song since 2006 with “Raise” by Chilli Beans.
With the “Wano” arc set to conclude soon, the anime joins the manga in entering its final saga. While a true ending to One Piece is some years away, the Netflix live-action provides fans a way to relive the series from the very beginning. Showrunner Steven Maeda recently addressed the infamous Crocodile theory, which remains of interest to even manga fans, while Matt Owens’ recent comments suggest that relevant plot points to current events may be expanded on in the second season.
Source: X (formerly Twitter)
