One Piece Movie 1, also known as The Great Gold Pirate, marked the big-screen debut of Eiichiro Oda’s iconic series. Released on March 4, 2000, alongside Digimon Adventure: Our War Game!, it introduced the Straw Hat Pirates through nostalgic cel animation — a contrast to later digital films. At just 50 minutes, it’s a short but memorable adventure that kicked off the franchise’s rich cinematic journey.
One Piece Movie 1 Synopsis & Story Overview
Set in the East Blue during the early days of the One Piece timeline, specifically between the Syrup Village and Baratie arcs, The Great Gold Pirate follows the Straw Hat Pirates: Monkey D. Luffy, Roronoa Zoro, Nami, and Usopp.
The crew is starving and desperate when they’re robbed by the Ascendancy the ruthless pirate El Drago and his crew, who are on a quest to find the legendary treasure of Woonan, the Great Gold Pirate. Woonan, a mythic figure said to have amassed nearly a third of the world’s gold, vanished with his fortune to a hidden island, sparking a frenzy among pirates.
In their attempt to recover their stolen supplies, the Straw Hats wreck El Drago’s ship and meet Tobio, a young boy forced to work for El Drago. Tobio’s grandfather, Ganzo, runs an oden shop and shares a mysterious connection to Woonan.
The story escalates when El Drago, using a treasure map obtained through betrayal, discovers Woonan’s hidden island. The Straw Hats, now split up, must reunite to stop El Drago from claiming the gold. Along the way, they uncover Woonan’s true legacy: a message to his old friend Ganzo that wealth doesn’t guarantee happiness. This subplot adds emotional depth to the treasure-hunting adventure, blending action, comedy, and heart in true One Piece fashion.
One Piece Movie 1 Cast and Characters
The cast and characters of One Piece Movie 1 – The Great Gold Pirate (2000) are a vital part of what makes this film a nostalgic and enjoyable experience for anime fans. The voice actors bring the beloved Straw Hat Pirates to life with their signature performances, while the original characters add depth and excitement to the story. Below is a detailed look at each character and their portrayals, presented in blocks of text for clarity and depth.
The Straw Hat Pirates
Monkey D. Luffy (voiced by Mayumi Tanaka)
Luffy, the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, is the heart of the crew. With his ability to stretch his body like rubber thanks to the Gum-Gum Fruit, he’s a fearless and optimistic leader who never backs down from a challenge. In The Great Gold Pirate, Luffy’s determination to recover the crew’s stolen supplies and stop El Drago from claiming Woonan’s treasure showcases his leadership and unwavering spirit.
His interactions with Tabio highlight his compassionate side, as he inspires the young boy to find courage. Mayumi Tanaka, a veteran voice actress known for roles like Shuuichi Akasaka in Crayon Shin-chan, delivers a performance that captures Luffy’s youthful energy and infectious enthusiasm, making him a character that fans adore. Her iconic portrayal has defined Luffy since the series began, and in this film, she brings the same vibrant energy that makes Luffy a beloved protagonist.
Roronoa Zoro (voiced by Kazuya Nakai)
Zoro, the crew’s swordsman, is known for his three-sword fighting style and stoic personality. He’s the calm and collected counterbalance to Luffy’s impulsiveness, often stepping in to handle tough situations with his strength and skill.
In this movie, Zoro plays a key role in the battles against El Drago’s crew, particularly during the climactic fight on Woonan’s island, where his swordsmanship shines. Kazuya Nakai’s deep, steady voice brings out Zoro’s reliability and quiet intensity, making him a fan favorite. Nakai, also known for voicing Kakashi Hatake in Naruto, lends a grounded and commanding presence to Zoro, perfectly capturing his no-nonsense attitude and loyalty to his captain.
Nami (voiced by Akemi Okamura)
Nami, the navigator, is clever and resourceful, always thinking several steps ahead. Her knowledge of maps and navigation is crucial in helping the Straw Hats reach Woonan’s hidden island. Throughout the film, Nami’s quick thinking and occasional frustration with Luffy’s recklessness add both humor and depth to her character.
Her love for treasure makes her particularly intrigued by Woonan’s legend, though her loyalty to her friends ultimately takes precedence. Akemi Okamura’s voice acting highlights Nami’s intelligence and emotional range, from her cunning plans to her exasperated reactions. Okamura, who has voiced characters in Sailor Moon and Detective Conan, brings a dynamic energy to Nami, making her a standout member of the crew.
Usopp (voiced by Kappei Yamaguchi)
Usopp, the crew’s sniper, is known for his sharpshooting skills and his tendency to exaggerate stories. In The Great Gold Pirate, Usopp provides much of the comic relief with his over-the-top reactions and tall tales, but he also shows bravery when it counts, especially in protecting Tabio from El Drago’s crew.
His moments of courage, despite his initial fear, highlight his growth as a character. Kappei Yamaguchi’s voice acting captures Usopp’s humor and heart, making him relatable and endearing to viewers. Yamaguchi, known for roles like Yūko in Yu Yu Hakusho, infuses Usopp with a perfect blend of comedic panic and heartfelt determination, ensuring his scenes are both funny and inspiring.
Antagonists and Key Characters
El Drago (voiced by Kenji Utsumi)
El Drago is the film’s main antagonist, a ruthless pirate driven by an insatiable greed for gold. His obsession with finding Woonan’s treasure, said to be nearly a third of the world’s gold, sets him on a collision course with the Straw Hats, leading to intense confrontations. El Drago’s willingness to betray even his own crew and harm innocents like Tabio makes him a formidable and despicable villain.
His contrast with the Straw Hats’ values of friendship and adventure underscores the film’s themes. Kenji Utsumi, a legendary voice actor known for his deep, commanding voice, delivers a chilling performance that perfectly embodies El Drago’s cruelty and ambition. Utsumi, who also voiced characters like Bergamo in Dragon Ball Super, brings a menacing gravitas to El Drago, making him a memorable antagonist before his passing in 2013.
Ganzo (voiced by Takeshi Aono)
Ganzo is an elderly man who runs an oden shop and is Tabio’s grandfather. He has a deep connection to Woonan from their childhood, which is gradually revealed through flashbacks that add emotional weight to the story. Ganzo’s wisdom and kindness serve as a moral anchor, emphasizing the film’s message that true treasure lies in relationships, not wealth.
His reflections on his past with Woonan provide a poignant subplot that resonates with fans. Takeshi Aono’s gentle and warm voice brings a sense of nostalgia and depth to Ganzo, making him a beloved character. Aono, a veteran voice actor known for roles in Casshern and other series before his passing in 2012, infuses Ganzo with a heartfelt sincerity that elevates the film’s emotional core.
Tabio (voiced by Yuka Imai)
Tabio is a young boy who becomes entangled in El Drago’s schemes after his grandfather’s oden shop is destroyed. Forced to work for El Drago, Tabio helps the Straw Hats by guiding them to El Drago’s ship, setting the stage for their adventure. His journey with the crew teaches him about courage and friendship, and his interactions with Luffy are particularly heartwarming, as they inspire him to stand up for himself.
Yuka Imai’s youthful voice captures Tabio’s innocence and growing bravery, making him a sympathetic and inspiring character. Imai, who has voiced multiple characters in One Piece and other anime like Sailor Moon, brings a fresh and earnest energy to Tabio, ensuring his arc feels meaningful.
Woonan (voiced by Nachi Nozawa)
Woonan, known as the Great Gold Pirate, is a legendary figure who amassed a vast fortune before mysteriously vanishing. In the film, it’s revealed that Woonan chose to leave his treasure behind to pursue happiness with his friend Ganzo, a decision that contrasts sharply with El Drago’s greed.
Woonan’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the emptiness of material wealth without companionship, tying into the film’s central themes. Nachi Nozawa’s voice adds a mysterious and reflective tone to Woonan, enhancing the emotional impact of his character. Nozawa, best known for voicing Vegeta in Dragon Ball, brings a layered performance that captures Woonan’s complex journey from pirate to philosopher.
Golass
Golass, El Drago’s first mate, is a loyal but brutal henchman who enforces his captain’s will. While not listed among the main voice cast in some sources, his role in the film is significant, as he participates in key battles against the Straw Hats and adds to the tension of El Drago’s crew.
Golass’s presence highlights the ruthlessness of the antagonists, making their threat feel more immediate. His character, though secondary, contributes to the action-packed sequences that fans love.
Danny, Denny, and Donny (voiced by Shinsuke Kasai, Toshihiro Itō, and Tsurumaru Sakai)
These three pirates are members of El Drago’s crew, involved in the initial robbery of the Straw Hats and the subsequent search for Woonan’s treasure. While their roles are secondary, they add to the dynamic of El Drago’s crew, providing additional challenges for the Straw Hats during battles.
Their interactions with El Drago also highlight his tyrannical leadership, as they follow his orders out of fear rather than loyalty. The voice actors, Shinsuke Kasai, Toshihiro Itō, and Tsurumaru Sakai, bring a rough and menacing edge to these characters, fitting their pirate personas. Though less prominent in the anime industry, their performances contribute to the film’s antagonistic ensemble.
Additional Characters
The Three Thieves
At the beginning of the film, the Straw Hats are robbed by three unnamed thieves working for El Drago. These minor characters serve as a catalyst for the main plot, as their theft of the Straw Hats’ supplies leads to the encounter with El Drago’s crew. While their screen time is brief, their actions set the stage for the adventure, adding to the chaotic energy of the film’s opening.
Voice Actors’ Backgrounds
The voice actors for One Piece Movie 1 are seasoned professionals, many of whom are legends in the anime industry, bringing their unique talents to their respective characters:
- Mayumi Tanaka (Luffy): A veteran voice actress, Tanaka has voiced Luffy since the One Piece series began in 1999. Her energetic and heartfelt performance is iconic, and she’s also known for roles like Shuuichi Akasaka in Crayon Shin-chan and Krillin in Dragon Ball Z.
- Kazuya Nakai (Zoro): Nakai’s deep voice perfectly suits Zoro’s stoic and reliable personality. He’s also recognized for voicing Kakashi Hatake in Naruto and Mugen in Samurai Champloo.
- Akemi Okamura (Nami): Okamura brings Nami’s clever and emotional depth to life. She has voiced characters in Sailor Moon, Detective Conan, and other popular series, showcasing her versatility.
- Kappei Yamaguchi (Usopp): Known for his comedic timing, Yamaguchi is also recognized for roles like Yūko in Yu Yu Hakusho and Inuyasha in Inuyasha. His portrayal of Usopp is both hilarious and heartfelt.
- Kenji Utsumi (El Drago): A legendary voice actor, Utsumi specialized in villainous roles, including Bergamo in Dragon Ball Super. His commanding voice made El Drago a standout antagonist before his passing in 2013.
- Takeshi Aono (Ganzo): Aono, known for roles in Casshern and other series, brought warmth and wisdom to Ganzo. His passing in 2012 was a significant loss to the industry.
- Yuka Imai (Tabio): Imai has voiced multiple characters in One Piece and other anime like Sailor Moon, bringing a youthful energy to her roles.
- Nachi Nozawa (Woonan): Best known for voicing Vegeta in Dragon Ball, Nozawa’s versatility shines in his reflective portrayal of Woonan.
- Shinsuke Kasai, Toshihiro Itō, and Tsurumaru Sakai (Danny, Denny, Donny): These voice actors, though less prominent internationally, have appeared in various anime, contributing to the ensemble cast.
One Piece Movie 1 Animation and Production
Directed by Junji Shimizu and produced by Toei Animation, The Great Gold Pirate is a visual love letter to the cel animation era. Written by Michiru Shimada, the story feels like an extended episode of the TV series, packed with action and humor. The cel animation style, with its clean lines and vibrant colors, evokes nostalgia for fans of classic anime.
The fight choreography is smooth, capturing the Straw Hats’ unique combat styles, Luffy’s stretchy punches, Zoro’s sword slashes, and Usopp’s slingshot tricks. Slapstick sequences are executed with precision, and the detailed backgrounds, from stormy seas to Woonan’s hidden island, immerse viewers in the One Piece world.
The music, composed by Kohei Tanaka, elevates the film’s adventurous tone. From rousing battle themes to quieter, emotional moments, Tanaka’s score hits all the right notes. While the animation may not match the polish of later One Piece films, its retro charm is a big part of its appeal.
One Piece Movie 1 Themes and Analysis
The Great Gold Pirate dives into themes that are core to One Piece. Greed drives the villainous El Drago, whose obsession with gold contrasts sharply with the Straw Hats’ values of friendship, freedom, and chasing dreams. This clash underscores the film’s message: true treasure lies in the bonds we share, not in material wealth.
The backstory of Woonan and Ganzo adds depth, exploring the tension between childhood dreams and adult realities. Woonan’s journey from gold-hoarding pirate to a man who values friendship over riches mirrors Ganzo’s quieter life, offering a poignant reflection on what truly matters.
The film’s fast pacing and comedic elements align perfectly with early One Piece episodes. Whether it’s Luffy’s goofy optimism or Usopp’s exaggerated panic, the humor keeps things light and fun, making it a quintessential One Piece experience.
One Piece Movie 1 Reception and Impact
The film was a box office success, opening at #2 in Japan and later climbing to #1, earning approximately ¥2.16 billion. On IMDb, it holds a respectable 6.6/10 rating, reflecting its appeal among fans. Critics often note that it feels like an extended TV episode rather than a grand cinematic epic, with some pointing out its predictable plot and less refined animation compared to later films. However, its humor, brisk pacing, and nostalgic vibe make it a fan favorite, especially for those who love the early Straw Hat adventures.
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Metric |
Details |
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Box Office |
~¥2.16 billion, #1 in Japan (subsequent weeks) |
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IMDb Rating |
6.6/10 |
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Critical Praise |
Humor, pacing, nostalgic charm |
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Critical Critiques |
Predictable plot, simpler animation |
One Piece Movie 1 Connection to Broader One Piece Franchise
As the first One Piece movie, The Great Gold Pirate is a landmark in the franchise. Set during the “East Blue Saga,” it’s a non-canon side story that captures the raw, chaotic energy of the Straw Hats’ early days.
Featuring only Luffy, Zoro, Nami, and Usopp, it offers a glimpse of the crew before Sanji and others joined, making it a unique snapshot of their formative adventures. This film kicked off the tradition of annual One Piece movies, each building on the series’ growing scope and ambition.
Where to Watch One Piece Movie 1 and Additional Information
You can watch One Piece: The Movie, also known as The Great Gold Pirate, on various streaming platforms or purchase it digitally, often included in One Piece movie collections. Visit Shinime Anime to stream this classic anime movie for free!
Notably, the film is non-canon, meaning it exists outside the main One Piece storyline, making it a perfect standalone adventure for newcomers or fans craving a nostalgic trip to the East Blue Saga. With a compact 50-minute runtime, it’s an ideal pick for a quick, fun movie night filled with pirate action and heartfelt moments.
Conclus`1QAion
One Piece Movie 1 – The Great Gold Pirate is a delightful slice of early One Piece magic. Its strengths, nostalgic cel animation, a fast-paced plot, sharp comedy, and heartfelt themes, make it a joy to watch. Sure, its 50-minute runtime and simpler story don’t match the epic scale of later films, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a perfect introduction for newcomers and a nostalgic treat for fans who cherish the Straw Hats’ early days.
Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A fun, heartfelt adventure that captures the spirit of One Piece. It’s not the flashiest film in the franchise, but it’s a treasure for anyone who loves Luffy and crew.
So, grab your straw hat, hop aboard the Going Merry, and enjoy this classic One Piece adventure! And don’t forget to read more anime news at Shinime Anime!