Summary
So far, Netflix’sOne Piecelive-action adaptation has featured a couple of antagonists from the East Blue saga. As the Straw Hats enter the Grand Line, they will encounter more villains who are much stronger than the ones they have already come across. Among these characters is the main antagonist of the Alabasta saga.Joe Manganiello has officially been cast asCrocodile, the ruthless and cunning president of Baroque Works who also goes by the name of Mr. 0.
Fans who started watching Netflix’sOne Piecelive-action remake because they fell for the anime or manga first have high expectations for the main villain of the next saga. Crocodile has remained a prominent character long after the dissolution of Baroque Works. So, with his anticipated appearance in theOne Pieceseason 2 live-action adaptation, what would it mean for the future of the Netflix series?
Crocodile Is One of the Most Anticipated Characters in the One Piece Remake
Crocodile is undoubtedly among themost iconicOne Piecevillains. Even though he wreaked havoc on the kingdom of Alabasta, he became an unexpected ally to Luffy when he saved him during the Paramount War. Most fans have an immense attachment to Crocodile, even showing admiration for the man. He has even been the subject of a series of fan theories, some of which are rather famous in the fandom. Seeing how loved he is byOne Piecefans, expectations for the Netflix series and Joe Manganiello’s performance will be quite high.
Most viewers of Netflix’sOne Piecelive-action adaptation are fans of the original content. Admittedly, the remake was quite different in its interpretation, highlighting the darker and grittier themes of theOne Piecemanga. However, this bold choice to not be a caricature of the anime helped make it a hit among fans, both old and new. The challenge is to maintain and expand the audience by living up to their expectations. And withOne Pieceseason 2 introducing fan favorites, including Crocodile, the pressure is on.
The Alabasta Saga Hinges on Baroque Works and Crocodile’s Schemes
Netflix’sOne Pieceseason 2 live-action adaptation will set the stage for the nail-biter that is the Alabasta arc. Since the key players, particularly the Baroque Works officers, have already been cast, it’s more or less understood that there has to be a third season for the Netflix series. The Alabasta saga may have different arcs, but its backbone will always go back to the syndicate built by Mr. 0. Aside from the Straw Hats and Vivi, the ones who play the most crucial part in this saga are theBaroque Works officers and Crocodile.
When the Straw Hats leave Logue Town and go through Reverse Mountain, they encounter Miss Wednesday and Mr. 9, two Baroque Works officers. As most fans know, Miss Wednesday is Alabasta’s Princess Nefertari Vivi, who went undercover to find out who’s been trying to take over her kingdom behind the scenes. This moment is the first allusion to Crocodile. Without being seen or formally revealed to the audience, Crocodile makes his presence known as early as Whiskey Peaks through his officers.
As one of theSeven Warlords of the Seas, Crocodile hides behind his self-made image as the hero of Alabasta. This well-crafted facade enables him to run his syndicate under the alias of Mr. 0, scheming his way to the top. As Mr. 0, he makes a mysterious “appearance” in almost every arc in the Alabasta saga before making his official debut in the final arc.
Tales of his cruel acts also surface throughout the story, fueling the Straw Hats, especially Luffy, to fight him. Following this storyline, fans can expect the tension to build up in season 2, ultimately leading to anepic showdown whenOne Pieceseason 3is (hopefully) released.
Crocodile Is the First to Mention Ancient Weapons in One Piece
The ancient weapons play significant roles in the story ofOne Piece; however, their full potential has yet to be revealed in the manga. Fans had their first insight into these mysterious weapons through Crocodile. Although he eventually wanted to take over Alabasta and become its new king, his initial reason for invading the kingdom was to findone of the ancient weapons, Pluton. As far as Crocodile knows, knowledge of its whereabouts has been passed down for generations in the Alabasta royal family.
Crocodile’s persistence also leads to the introduction of the poneglyphs, whichonly his partner,Miss All Sunday, can decipher and read. Although the explanation for the poneglyphs and their relevance to the ancient weapons, and ultimately the Void Century, will take a couple of arcs, it still pays to plant the seeds of this story as early as now. Netflix’sOne Pieceseason 2 live-action adaptation will prepare the audience not only for the highly anticipated Alabasta arc, but also for the deeper lore that exists inOne Piece.
Crocodile’s Successful Introduction Could Mean More Seasons
As mentioned, there is a lot of pressure on the creators, cast, and crew behind Netflix’sOne Piecelive-action remake. Just like how things became more serious for the Straw Hats as soon as they made their way to the Grand Line, the same can be said about the people who have made the live-action adaptation possible. Now that he has to carry the weight of the character he will portray,Joe Manganiello will have to impress the fansand critics. After all, they’re the ones who get to make season 2 a hit or miss.
Although many are also excited about the appearance of otherOne Piececharacters in season 2, Crocodile is the one who couldultimately change the game for the Netflix series. The extent of his exposure and presence in season 2 remains unknown. However, by giving the most epic introduction (perhaps with the same energy as Buggy the Clown in season 1), fans will be left wanting more of this charismatic and cunning antagonist. And if it’s something people want to see more, then it’s likely for Netflix’sOne Pieceto further their live-action adaptation.
