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It is my third time watching Episode of Nami and for the third time - I cried. This special has done well in reminding the viewers of the anger the fishmen felt earlier in the storyline. It is also my go-to whenever I want to feel emotional.

First, it reaffirms that Eiichiro Oda had planned the events of Fishmen Island since the beginning. Justifying the reason why Arlong hates humans and regard them as "inferior beings". How the author was capable of weaving the events together is simply amazing.

Second, this is my favourite arc in One Piece. Normally we are used to the happy-going crew but ... this arc showed us for the first time that the Straw Hats are not just carefree idiots. It showed us the value of 'nakama' that Luffy believes in as well as the growth of Nami and Usopp (the coward) from their friendship.

Besides, Kurobi vs Sanji and Hachi vs Zoro are one of the best East Blue fights. I have nothing against Hachi after Sabaody Archipelago but that final damage from Zoro was so satisfying.

"I hope we make it to nationals. I've had that wish since middle school. But back then, I was only saying it. I never thought of actually trying to make it happen. I thought that it'd be stupid to get my hopes up, only to embarrass myself. But... Wishes don't come true unless you mean it when you make them."

I think many of us face this dilemma: to try our best with the possibility of failure or put in some effort and do average. At least I do. I am afraid of putting in all my effort and not achieve results which in a way ... also proves my limit. I know it is stupid, but I still feel the way I do.

What I really like about this movie is that it tackles this (cliche) problem and motivates me in the process. The characters were enjoyable as well. My favourite one being Taki-sensei. His method of teaching his students and the respect and trust he gives them is admirable. He is strict but not demoralisingly rude. He thinks through and plans for how the students can improve instead of simply expecting them to practice more (because sometimes students don't know what to work on to be better and it makes them frustrated). I want teachers like that in my school.

As a person who didn't watch the first season of this anime, I thought everything was done pretty well except for the pacing. It moved very quickly that at some points, I couldn't relate and didn't feel for the characters. Otherwise, it is worth the watch. I will probably watch the first season because I want to know more about the characters.