August 31, 2023, 5:54 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Netflix releases a significant number of self-produced films and series every month. The hope is that one title will stand out as particularly successful. In August, Netflix is debuting its most expensive production of the year, and expectations are accordingly high.
Despite strong competition, Netflix remains the streaming service with the highest number of original productions. These so-called Originals are a key factor in distinguishing itself from competitors. Looking at the list of all new releases on Netflix in August, one highlight stands out: “One Piece.” Netflix seems to be betting heavily on this anime adaptation. The project has the potential to become the series of the year–or one of the most expensive flops in the streaming service’s history. Even the TECHBOOK editorial team is divided on the project.
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“One Piece” costs Netflix millions
Netflix’s serious commitment to the “One Piece” series is evident from its hefty budget. Around 18 million euros per episode has been allocated by the streaming service. Netflix has officially confirmed this. For comparison, the most successful series of all time, “Game of Thrones,” cost “only” 13.7 million euros per episode in its lavish eighth season. Netflix is clearly investing heavily in the live-action adaptation of the successful anime of the same name.
However, this is no guarantee of success for a production. The exact criteria Netflix uses to evaluate its original productions internally are not publicly detailed. It is known, though, that several factors play a role. Among other things, it matters how many people ultimately stream “One Piece” on Netflix. The duration and whether viewers watch the series to the end are also crucial. Given the enormous costs, the “One Piece” live-action adaptation must excel in all these areas.
In the past, Netflix has found success with more modestly budgeted productions that did not receive much attention beforehand. “Squid Game” is certainly the most prominent example. The series cost just 2.4 million USD per episode and still reigns supreme with an incredible 265 million views on the all-time best list. Only “Wednesday” has reached similar heights; this success was also rather unexpected. “One Piece” certainly carries high expectations.
What the Netflix series “One Piece” is about
Both the original and the Netflix adaptation revolve around the legendary “One Piece.” This is a mysterious pirate treasure hidden by the legendary pirate captain Gold Roger. The young Monkey D. Luffy wants to find the treasure to become the most powerful pirate of all time. To do this, he gathers a crew of diverse characters around him.
Among them is the silent swordsman Zoro (Mackenyu) with green hair, the ambitious navigator Nami (Emily Rudd), and the master chef Sanji (Taz Skylar). Luffy himself has the ability to stretch and expand his limbs to extreme lengths, thanks to a magical fruit. Together, the Straw Hat Pirates–named after Luffy’s trademark–embark on many adventures, encounter other pirates, and grow together as a crew.
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Will Netflix’s “One Piece” be the series of the year–or a huge flop?
The TECHBOOK editorial team is also divided when it comes to Netflix’s “One Piece” series. The first teaser has already sparked intense discussion. The unique aspect of the project is that it has great potential in both directions. Netflix might be rewarded for its boldness and manage to keep a series in the conversation for weeks. Or it could completely backfire, with the streaming service losing millions of USD.
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What’s the status of “One Piece” Season 2?
A continuation of the series is certainly possible. The first season consists of eight episodes and covers about 100 manga volumes. However, there are now over 1,000 volumes–so there’s definitely enough material.
Whether there will be a second season of “One Piece” will depend on the series’ success on Netflix. Due to the enormous budget, different standards will likely apply compared to other productions. However, it is also a prestige project for the streaming service, in which Netflix should have a significant interest.
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Initial reviews have been positive. However, this does not necessarily mean that it will attract large audiences. Netflix must strike a balance with the series, convincing the existing fanbase and introducing new viewers to “One Piece.” Whether this succeeds, and if so, to an extent that justifies a continuation, remains to be seen.