This is a One Piece special that knows exactly what it is: a chance to watch the crew do what they do best without needing the ongoing story to justify it. The flashback to Luffy's origin hits different with fresh animation, reminding you why this character matters. A parent protecting their kid, a marine caught in the middle, a problem the Straw Hats solve by being themselves, that's the formula, and it works because the show trusts it.

Set during the New World portion of the story, shortly before the events of One Piece Film Z, this special centers on an incident tied to Hand Island. The action unfolds in Cannon Town, home to a parent and child who earn their living as craftspeople, and the trouble involves the two of them along with a commodore stationed at a marine base. Mixing action, adventure, comedy and fantasy, the episode also includes a flashback to the tale told in the manga's opening chapter, redrawn with new animation.